Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A creamy and nutritious butternut squash soup that's perfect for chilly days.
This healthy butternut squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and nutrients. It's a comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that's satisfying and creamy
- Naturally sweet flavor from roasted butternut squash
- Perfectly spiced with a hint of warmth from ginger
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is rich in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. Additionally, this vibrant vegetable is a great source of dietary fiber, helping to keep your digestive system on track.
The natural sweetness of butternut squash makes it a favorite in many dishes, especially soups. This sweetness can reduce the need for added sugars or sweeteners in recipes, allowing you to enjoy your meal without compromising your health. Plus, its versatility means it can be paired with a variety of spices and ingredients for a robust flavor profile.
Ginger: A Flavorful Superfood
Adding ginger to your butternut squash soup not only enhances its flavor but also offers numerous health benefits. Ginger is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in digestion and alleviate nausea. It’s also packed with antioxidants, contributing to overall health and wellness.
The warmth of ginger complements the sweetness of butternut squash beautifully, creating a balanced taste that is both comforting and invigorating. Whether you're enjoying a bowl on a chilly day or serving it at a gathering, the combination of these two ingredients is sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy butternut squash soup can be served as a starter or as a main dish, depending on your mood and occasion. For a hearty meal, consider pairing it with a slice of whole-grain bread or a simple mixed greens salad. The combination not only enhances the flavors but also adds nutritional value.
For a touch of elegance, top your soup with a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of yogurt to introduce contrasting textures. Fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can also elevate the presentation and add a burst of freshness to each serving.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a splash of coconut milk for creaminess
Enjoy your delicious and healthy soup!
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash and grated ginger to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your healthy butternut squash soup!
Storage Tips
Leftover butternut squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also add a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to thin it out if it thickens during storage.
For longer storage, consider freezing your soup. Transfer 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're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information
This healthy butternut squash soup is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice. One serving typically contains a good balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying option for any meal. The addition of ginger and garlic provides additional health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and immune support.
For those watching their calorie intake, this soup is a great option. With minimal added fats and sugars, you can enjoy a hearty bowl without the guilt. Plus, the high fiber content from the squash will help keep you full longer, making it a smart choice for weight management.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making this soup vegan-friendly.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a light sandwich.
Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
A creamy and nutritious butternut squash soup that's perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
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
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a splash of coconut milk for creaminess
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash and grated ginger to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g