Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm up with this delightful roasted butternut squash soup, perfect for chilly days.
This roasted butternut squash soup is a comforting blend of flavors that will warm your soul. The sweetness of the roasted squash paired with spices creates a delicious harmony, making it a perfect starter or main dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your heart
- Naturally sweet and savory flavors
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that contribute to a healthy diet. It's an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining good vision and a robust immune system. Additionally, this vibrant vegetable offers a healthy dose of fiber, aiding in digestion and helping you feel satisfied longer.
The natural sweetness of butternut squash enhances the flavor of your soup without the need for added sugars. This makes it a great option for those looking to enjoy a comforting dish while keeping their meals nutritious. Plus, its creamy texture, once blended, mimics the richness often found in heavier soups, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious dish that's still light.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This roasted butternut squash soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a cozy family dinner, preparing a meal prep batch for the week, or looking for a starter for a festive gathering, this soup fits the bill perfectly. Its easy preparation and minimal ingredients mean you can whip it up without stress.
Moreover, the soup can be easily modified to cater to different dietary preferences. Want to make it vegan? Simply use vegetable broth, which this recipe already calls for. You can also spice things up with additional herbs or spices based on your taste, ensuring that it remains a go-to recipe in your collection.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you're in luck! This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just transfer it to an airtight container once it has cooled down and pop it in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as described. This makes it an excellent option for meal planning!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish
- Pumpkin seeds
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A drizzle of olive oil
Enjoy your delicious roasted butternut squash soup!
Instructions
Prepare the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Combine and Simmer
Once the squash is done roasting, add it to the pot along with the vegetable broth, cumin, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
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. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Enjoy your delicious roasted butternut squash soup!
Serving Suggestions
This roasted butternut squash soup is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further with various accompaniments. A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette makes for a perfect pairing, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the soup. Consider adding a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
For a heartier option, try topping the soup with croutons, a dollop of sour cream, or even some spicy chorizo. Each topping adds its unique flair and enhances the overall experience, making each bowl a little different.
Nutritional Information
This butternut squash soup is not only delicious but also a healthy option for any meal. One serving typically contains around 150 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. It's low in fat and high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for weight management.
Additionally, with its high vitamin A content, this soup can contribute significantly to your daily nutritional needs. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a comforting and flavorful dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
You can use chicken broth or water, but vegetable broth adds more flavor to the soup.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add carrots or sweet potatoes for additional flavor and nutrition.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this delightful roasted butternut squash soup, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Ella Townsend
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish
- Pumpkin seeds
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A drizzle of olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Once the squash is done roasting, add it to the pot along with the vegetable broth, cumin, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it to a blender in batches if you prefer. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g