Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cool evenings. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it's sure to please the whole family.
This squash soup is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. It’s made with fresh squash, aromatic herbs, and spices, bringing warmth to your weeknight dinners.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and comforting texture that's perfect for chilly nights
- Rich flavors from fresh ingredients that are easy to find
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
A Healthy Choice for the Family
This squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a fantastic choice for boosting your family's health. The addition of garlic and onion enhances its nutritional profile while providing a depth of flavor that elevates the dish from simple to spectacular.
By using vegetable broth, this recipe remains vegetarian-friendly, catering to various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. The heartiness of the soup ensures that it can serve as a fulfilling meal on its own or as an accompaniment to a light salad or crusty bread.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this squash soup recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins to suit your taste. A dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can add a lovely warmth, while a swirl of coconut milk can introduce a subtle sweetness and creaminess that complements the squash beautifully.
Additionally, you can incorporate other vegetables, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, for extra flavor and nutrition. This adaptability makes it a perfect base for using up any seasonal produce you might have on hand, encouraging creativity in your kitchen.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This squash soup is an excellent option for meal prep, making it a smart choice for busy individuals or families. Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week, and it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat for a quick, nourishing meal on nights when time is tight.
To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens. Having a comforting bowl of homemade soup ready to go is not only convenient but also ensures you’re nourishing yourself with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your squash soup:
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your delicious squash soup:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot along with the ground cumin. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it to a blender in batches if you prefer.
Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your warm and comforting squash soup!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your squash soup experience, consider pairing it with a slice of freshly baked sourdough bread or a light, leafy salad. The crunchy texture of the bread contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, while a salad provides a refreshing balance to the meal.
For a more substantial dinner, add protein by serving the soup alongside grilled chicken or quinoa. You can even top each bowl with roasted chickpeas for added crunch and nutrition, making the meal more satisfying and complete.
Storage Tips
When storing your squash soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps maintain its flavor and texture while preventing condensation from forming, which can lead to spoilage. Label the containers with the date, so you’ll know when to use them by.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider portioning it out into smaller containers or freezer bags for easy thawing. This way, you can enjoy a warm bowl of soup without the need to defrost an entire batch, making it an easy meal option for any day of the week.
Common Variations
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes can transform this soup into a spicy delight. Alternatively, if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile, try adding a splash of maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon to complement the natural sweetness of the butternut squash.
Another popular variation involves incorporating creamy elements such as Greek yogurt or heavy cream just before serving. This not only enhances the richness of the soup but also adds a beautiful, velvety texture that can make each spoonful even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, you can use frozen squash. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for extra flavor.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cool evenings. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it's sure to please the whole family.
Created by: Vivienne Cole
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot along with the ground cumin. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it to a blender in batches if you prefer.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g