Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm up with this comforting and creamy roasted butternut squash soup, perfect for chilly days.
This roasted butternut squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. The natural sweetness of the squash is enhanced by roasting, making this soup a perfect starter or main dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Richly flavored with a hint of spice
- Creamy texture without heavy cream
- Perfectly warming for fall and winter
The Health Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. This orange-hued vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for maintaining healthy vision and boosting the immune system. Additionally, it contains fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making it a great choice for those watching their weight.
Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can also support heart health. Its high potassium content helps to regulate blood pressure, while antioxidants in the squash contribute to overall cardiovascular wellness. This soup is a wonderful way to enjoy these health benefits while indulging in a warm, comforting dish.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the great things about this roasted butternut squash soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce during the blending process. If you're a fan of herbs, a sprinkle of fresh thyme or sage can elevate the flavor profile even further.
For those looking to enhance the creaminess without using heavy cream, try adding coconut milk or a splash of almond milk. These alternatives will give the soup a velvety texture while keeping it dairy-free. Experiment with different toppings too; croutons or a swirl of yogurt can add an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This roasted butternut squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Consider serving it alongside a fresh, crusty bread or a simple green salad to create a well-rounded dining experience. The contrasting textures and flavors will enhance your meal.
For a more substantial option, serve the soup with grilled cheese sandwiches or paninis. The gooey cheese and crispy bread complement the creamy soup perfectly, making it a comforting choice for a cozy night in. Don't forget to pour a glass of your favorite wine to complete the experience!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Pumpkin seeds
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Drizzle of olive oil
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process!
Instructions
Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Blend the Soup
Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, cumin, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve
Serve warm, garnished with pumpkin seeds, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious soup!
Storage Tips
Leftover roasted butternut squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious and warming dish throughout the week. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Nutritional Information
This roasted butternut squash soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. A typical serving contains around 150 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option for lunch or dinner. The high fiber content helps keep you full longer, while the low calorie count allows for guilt-free indulgence.
Each serving provides a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, which is crucial for eye health, and potassium, which supports heart health. The choice of vegetable broth instead of heavy cream keeps the soup lighter, ensuring you can enjoy this comforting dish without compromising your health goals.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before using.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give it some heat.
→ Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy roasted butternut squash soup, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Emma Parker
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 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Pumpkin seeds
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Drizzle of olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, cumin, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve warm, garnished with pumpkin seeds, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g