Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This roasted butternut squash soup is a cozy and creamy delight, perfect for chilly days. With a hint of spice and a velvety texture, it's sure to warm your soul.
This roasted butternut squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The natural sweetness of the squash combined with aromatic spices makes it a favorite among all age groups.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, comforting flavor that warms you up on cold days
- Smooth and creamy texture that's easy to make
- Nutritious and packed with vitamins, perfect for a healthy meal
The Health Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Packed with vitamins A and C, this winter squash supports your immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, it's a great source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can help boost your overall health, making this soup a wholesome choice for any meal.
Rich in antioxidants, butternut squash also plays a role in reducing inflammation and combating oxidative stress. The vibrant orange color indicates a high beta-carotene content, which the body converts into vitamin A. This nutrient is essential for maintaining good vision, skin health, and a robust immune system. Enjoying this roasted butternut squash soup is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a step towards better health.
Perfect Pairings for Your Soup
This roasted butternut squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. For a classic combination, serve it with crusty bread or warm rolls to soak up the creamy goodness. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons adds crunch and texture, elevating your soup experience to the next level.
If you're looking to enhance the flavors, consider topping your soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy contrast. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten the dish, adding a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the squash. These simple additions can transform your soup into a satisfying and complete meal.
Tips for Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this roasted butternut squash soup is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with spices to suit your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some freshly grated ginger can introduce a delightful kick that enhances the overall flavor profile. You can also substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth for a different depth of flavor.
For an extra creamy texture, consider blending in other vegetables such as carrots or potatoes during the cooking process. This not only adds nutrition but also creates a heartier soup. If you prefer a sweeter soup, drizzle a little maple syrup or honey just before serving to balance the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create a comforting bowl of soup:
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your roasted butternut squash soup:
Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it out on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Add the roasted butternut squash to the pot along with the vegetable broth, cumin, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer, you can also transfer the mixture to a blender in batches.
Finish with Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk for creaminess, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs!
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftover soup, storing it is easy! Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in portions, making it convenient for quick meals throughout the week. Just ensure to leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.
When it’s time to enjoy your soup again, reheating is simple. You can warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring in between to ensure even warming.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this roasted butternut squash soup can be as creative as you like. Consider presenting it in a hollowed-out mini pumpkin or squash for a festive touch, especially during autumn. This not only looks appealing but also keeps the soup warm longer when served in these natural bowls.
For a gourmet flair, drizzle some balsamic reduction or homemade pesto on top just before serving. This adds an elegant touch and enhances the flavor profile of the soup, making it feel like a dish from a fine dining restaurant. Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs or microgreens to elevate the presentation.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used. Just make sure to thaw it before roasting.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños while sautéing the onions.
→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan if you use vegetable broth and omit the coconut milk or use a plant-based alternative.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This roasted butternut squash soup is a cozy and creamy delight, perfect for chilly days. With a hint of spice and a velvety texture, it's sure to warm your soul.
Created by: Anya Coleman
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it out on a baking sheet. Roast for about 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, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the roasted butternut squash to the pot along with the vegetable broth, cumin, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer, you can also transfer the mixture to a blender in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk for creaminess, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g