Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This delicious squash soup is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, packed with flavor and easy to make.
This squash soup is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in just under an hour and is packed with nutrients.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that delights the palate
- Bursting with seasonal flavors and spices
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy evenings
A Heartwarming Dish for Any Night
Squash soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially during chilly evenings. Its rich and creamy texture warms you from the inside out while providing a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet healthy. This soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it an excellent choice for a cozy weeknight dinner with family or friends.
With its vibrant color and delightful flavors, this squash soup is visually appealing and invites everyone to the table. The combination of seasonal squash with aromatic spices creates a symphony of taste that is both comforting and exciting. It’s a great way to enjoy the bounty of fall vegetables, and it’s simple enough to whip up after a long day.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This squash soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep. Make a big batch on the weekend, and you'll have tasty lunches or quick dinners ready to go throughout the week. The flavors deepen and improve after sitting for a day, making leftovers even more enjoyable. Simply reheat and serve, perhaps with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
You can also freeze portions of this soup for later use. Just let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw and heat on the stove or in the microwave. This flexibility makes it a practical choice for busy families or anyone looking to simplify their weeknight cooking.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this squash soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños during the cooking process. If you're looking for a vegan option, simply omit the cream and use coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free alternative.
Feel free to experiment with different types of squash as well. While butternut squash is a classic choice, acorn squash or pumpkin can also work beautifully in this recipe. Mixing in additional vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes will not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your soup.
Ingredients
Squash Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash and Spices
Stir in the diced butternut squash, ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of it.
Finish with Cream
If using, stir in the cream or coconut milk for extra richness. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins A, C, and E. These vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy skin, boosting your immune system, and promoting good vision. Additionally, this squash is high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making it a great addition to any balanced diet.
Moreover, the antioxidants found in squash can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Including squash soup in your meals can contribute to overall health and well-being, making it a delicious choice that aligns with your healthy lifestyle goals.
Pairing Suggestions
This delicious squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad topped with nuts and cranberries. The crunch and tartness from the salad provide a lovely contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
For a more substantial option, consider pairing the soup with grilled cheese sandwiches or artisan bread. The melty cheese and crispy bread complement the warm, velvety soup, creating a satisfying dining experience that is perfect for any night of the week.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, any type of squash like acorn or pumpkin can work well in this recipe.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, if you use coconut milk and vegetable broth, the soup is vegan-friendly.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The soup tastes even better the next day and can be stored in the refrigerator.
→ How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This delicious squash soup is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, packed with flavor and easy to make.
Created by: Phoebe Drake
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Squash Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk (optional)
- 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 soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the diced butternut squash, ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of it.
If using, stir in the cream or coconut milk for extra richness. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g