Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is a warm, comforting bowl of goodness, perfect for chilly days.
This delicious and nutritious butternut squash soup is packed with flavor and is incredibly easy to make. Perfect for meal prep, it's a great way to enjoy seasonal produce!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture without heavy cream
- Rich flavor from roasted butternut squash
- Packed with vitamins and nutrients
- Perfectly spiced for a cozy meal
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. This vibrant vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. Moreover, its high fiber content aids in digestion, promoting a healthy gut. By incorporating butternut squash into your diet, you can enjoy these health benefits while savoring its naturally sweet flavor.
In addition to its nutritional perks, butternut squash is versatile in the kitchen. It can be roasted, mashed, or pureed, making it an excellent ingredient for soups, stews, and even desserts. This means that you can easily adapt this soup recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs, allowing you to enjoy its comforting taste in various forms throughout the year.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This healthy butternut squash soup is an ideal choice for meal prep enthusiasts. Its components can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious homemade meal throughout the week. Simply roast the butternut squash and prepare the soup base, then store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat portions as needed for a quick and satisfying meal.
Additionally, this soup freezes exceptionally well. After blending, cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw and reheat for a comforting bowl of soup, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected chilly days.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your butternut squash soup, consider adding toppings that complement its creamy texture and rich flavor. A swirl of coconut cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add a delightful creaminess, while toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons provide a satisfying crunch. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, can also enhance the presentation and freshness of each bowl.
Pair this soup with a simple side salad or a slice of whole-grain bread for a complete meal. The soup's warmth and the salad's freshness create a balanced dining experience that is both comforting and nourishing. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this butternut squash soup is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Feel free to add toppings like croutons or a drizzle of olive oil!
Instructions
Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes until tender.
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
Combine and Blend
Add the roasted butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir in the ground ginger and bring to a simmer for 10 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition Information
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Each serving is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The combination of butternut squash and vegetable broth ensures that you’re getting a hearty dose of antioxidants, which can help combat inflammation and boost overall health.
Furthermore, this soup is low in calories and fat, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free diets. Whether you’re aiming to lose weight or simply want to eat more healthily, this soup is a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies without compromising on taste.
Variations to Try
While this butternut squash soup recipe is delightful as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. For a hint of sweetness, consider adding a chopped apple or pear during the cooking process. Alternatively, spice lovers might enjoy incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of curry powder for an extra kick.
For those who enjoy a heartier soup, adding cooked lentils or chickpeas can increase the protein content, making it an even more filling meal. You can also explore adding different vegetables, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, to diversify the flavors and textures in your soup.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze butternut squash soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
→ How long does it last in the fridge?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots and sweet potatoes make great additions.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, it's completely vegan as long as you use vegetable broth.
Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is a warm, comforting bowl of goodness, 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 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes until tender.
In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the roasted butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir in the ground ginger and bring to a simmer for 10 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g