Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Squash Soup is the perfect comforting dish for a busy weeknight. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, it’s the ideal meal to warm you up.
This easy weeknight squash soup is a delicious way to incorporate seasonal vegetables into your diet. With its creamy texture and warm flavors, it’s great for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that soothes the soul
- Packed with nutrients and flavor
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports immune health and promotes healthy skin. Its high fiber content aids digestion, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Additionally, butternut squash is low in calories, helping you feel full without the extra calories.
The natural sweetness of butternut squash adds depth to any dish, making it a favorite in soups and stews. This versatile vegetable pairs well with a variety of spices and herbs, allowing for endless flavor combinations. Whether roasted, pureed, or sautéed, butternut squash brings a comforting warmth to your meals.
Coconut Milk: A Creamy Delight
Coconut milk is a fantastic addition to this squash soup, providing a rich, creamy texture that enhances the overall flavor. It adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical flavor, making this soup feel indulgent without being heavy. Plus, coconut milk is dairy-free, making it an excellent option for those with lactose intolerance or dietary restrictions.
In addition to its creamy qualities, coconut milk is packed with healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known for their potential health benefits. These fats can help support weight management and provide a quick source of energy. Incorporating coconut milk into your recipes not only improves taste but also boosts nutritional value.
Perfect Pairings
This squash soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy soup, while a fresh salad can provide a crunchy contrast that balances the dish's smooth texture. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing accompaniment.
For an extra touch of flavor, you can top the soup with roasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of balsamic reduction, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add a bit of heat. These toppings not only enhance the flavor profile but also add interesting textures, making each spoonful a delightful experience.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot, and stir to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Add Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. 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. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Storage Tips
Leftover 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 medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens during storage, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
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're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Customizing Your Soup
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences! You can add spices such as cumin, nutmeg, or cinnamon for a warm, aromatic flavor. For a little heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. The beauty of this squash soup lies in its versatility, so don't hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and spices.
You can also add additional vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or even kale to boost the nutritional content. Just remember to adjust the cooking time to ensure all vegetables are tender and cooked through. This soup is a blank canvas, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.
Serving Suggestions
When serving this squash soup, consider using a fun and colorful bowl to make the dish even more inviting. A swirl of coconut milk on top can add a beautiful presentation, along with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprig of fresh herbs for garnish. These small details can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.
Additionally, if you're looking for a heartier option, you can serve the soup alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or a hearty quiche. The comforting flavors of the soup combined with these sides create a cozy and satisfying meal, perfect for a chilly evening or a casual get-together with friends.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This Squash Soup is the perfect comforting dish for a busy weeknight. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, it’s the ideal meal to warm you up.
Created by: Lucinda Price
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot, and stir to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. 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. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g