Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy evenings, it's both nutritious and satisfying.
This squash soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With its vibrant color and creamy texture, it's a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that's incredibly comforting
- Naturally sweet flavor from seasonal squash
- Easy to make with minimal ingredients
The Benefits of Eating Squash
Squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Butternut squash, in particular, is rich in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin and a robust immune system. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to boost their overall health, especially during the colder months when our bodies require extra support.
In addition to vitamins, squash is a great source of dietary fiber. Incorporating fiber into your diet aids digestion and helps to maintain a healthy weight. With its naturally sweet flavor, squash can satisfy those cravings for comfort food without packing on the calories, making it a smart choice for any meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This easy weeknight squash soup is versatile enough to be served on various occasions. Whether you're preparing a cozy dinner for your family or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this soup can be the star of the meal. Its rich, creamy texture is sure to impress, making it a dish that everyone will love.
Moreover, the soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Just reheat and serve, allowing you to enjoy a warm, homemade dish without the stress of last-minute cooking.
Customization Options
One of the greatest aspects of this squash soup recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different types of squash, such as acorn or pumpkin, to find your favorite flavor profile. You can also add additional spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to enhance the soup's warmth and depth, creating a unique twist every time you make it.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also mix in other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious squash soup:
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your squash soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Return the blended soup to the pot.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy squash soup!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your squash soup experience, consider pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh, green salad. A slice of garlic bread can perfectly complement the soup's creamy richness, while a light salad brings a refreshing contrast to the meal. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the salad for added flavor.
If you're looking to add protein, serve the soup with grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas. These additions not only enhance the meal's nutritional value but also make it more filling, ideal for those colder evenings when you want something hearty.
Storing and Reheating
Proper storage is key to enjoying your squash soup later. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
If frozen, allow the soup to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the soup, ensuring that each bowl is just as delicious as when it was first made.
Health Benefits of Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is not just a creamy addition to your soup; it also brings several health benefits. Rich in healthy fats, it can support heart health and provide sustained energy throughout the day. Additionally, it's dairy-free, making it an excellent choice for those with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet.
Furthermore, coconut milk contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that may help boost the immune system. By incorporating coconut milk into this squash soup, you not only enhance its flavor but also add a nutritional powerhouse that can contribute to your overall well-being.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?
You can use heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk, but the flavor will vary.
→ How long does the soup last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy evenings, it's both nutritious and satisfying.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Return the blended soup to the pot.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g