Butternut squash soup is a warm, comforting dish that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. Its silky, velvety texture and naturally sweet flavor make it a favorite for many. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy it as a cozy meal on a chilly day or as a sophisticated starter for a special dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a bowl of goodness that warms both the heart and the soul.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
Why Make This Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This soup is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, making it a nourishing option. The combination of fragrant spices and the natural sweetness of the squash creates a flavor profile that is sure to please any palate. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup is the perfect addition to your recipe repertoire.
How to Make Butternut Squash Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cream or coconut milk for garnish
- Optional: spices like nutmeg or cinnamon
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
### Step 2: Mixing
Add the cubed butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
### Step 3: Cooking
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
### Step 4: Finishing
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you’re using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering. Finally, season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices you desire. Serve warm, garnished with a swirl of cream or coconut milk for an extra touch of richness.
How to Serve Butternut Squash Soup
This butternut squash soup pairs perfectly with a crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. Serve it as a starter for a festive meal or enjoy it as a hearty lunch. For a delightful touch, try topping it with roasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch and flavor.
How to Store Butternut Squash Soup
You can store leftover butternut squash soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Butternut Squash Soup
- Selecting Squash: Look for a squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.
- Blender Caution: If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending, and blend in batches if necessary to avoid spills.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices like cumin for a warm touch, or curry powder for an exotic twist.
- Cream Alternatives: If you’re dairy-free, coconut milk is a fantastic substitute that adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness.
Delicious Variations
- Curried Butternut Squash Soup: Add 1-2 tablespoons of curry powder to the onions and garlic for a flavorful twist.
- Ginger Butternut Squash Soup: Mix in some freshly grated ginger for a warm, spicy kick.
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Roast the butternut squash in the oven before adding it to the soup for a deeper flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes! Frozen butternut squash is a great time-saver. Just add it directly to the pot with the vegetable broth and proceed with the recipe. -
How can I thicken the soup?
If you’d like a thicker soup, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer after blending, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). -
Can I add protein to the soup?
Absolutely! To boost the protein content, consider adding cooked lentils or shredded chicken. -
How can I adjust the sweetness?
If you find your soup is too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance the flavors. -
Is butternut squash soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free if necessary.
Conclusion
Butternut squash soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Its creamy texture, coupled with the rich flavors of spices and the natural sweetness of the squash, creates a hearty meal that everyone will love. So why not give this recipe a try? It’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Butternut Squash Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm, comforting butternut squash soup with a silky texture and sweet flavor, perfect for any chilly day.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cream or coconut milk for garnish
- Optional: spices like nutmeg or cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cubed butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Serve warm, garnished with a swirl of cream or coconut milk.
Notes
Pairs well with crusty bread or fresh garden salad. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
