Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is perfect for a cozy dinner, packed with flavor and nutrients.
This squash soup is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. It's the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and comforting texture that warms the soul
- Natural sweetness from the squash balanced with savory spices
- Quick and easy to prepare on a busy weeknight
A Nutrient-Packed Delight
Squash is a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. This makes squash soup not only a delicious choice for dinner but also a healthy one. The natural sweetness of the squash combined with the savory spices creates a delightful balance that tantalizes your taste buds while nourishing your body. Enjoying a bowl of this soup can help boost your immune system and keep you feeling full longer thanks to its fiber content.
In addition to its impressive nutritional profile, squash is incredibly versatile. Whether you choose butternut or acorn squash, each variety brings its unique flavor and texture to the dish. Butternut squash offers a sweeter, creamier consistency, while acorn squash has a slightly nutty flavor. Whichever you choose, this soup is bound to be a hit with family and friends.
Perfect for Any Night
One of the best aspects of this squash soup recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a comforting meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious yet satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. You can even make a larger batch and enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day.
Additionally, this soup is highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite herbs or spices, such as thyme or nutmeg, to enhance the flavor profile. You can also incorporate other vegetables, like carrots or sweet potatoes, for added variety and nutrition. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium squash (butternut or acorn), peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: cream or yogurt for serving
Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed squash to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth, cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until creamy.
Serve
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a swirl of cream or yogurt if desired.
Enjoy your delicious squash soup with some crusty bread!
Serving Suggestions
This squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, add some cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice to the soup before serving. These additions not only enhance the texture but also boost the nutritional value of your dinner.
For those who enjoy a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving. This adds an exciting layer of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soup's creaminess. Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing this soup is a breeze! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to five days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
When you're ready to reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened, you can thin it out with a splash of vegetable broth or water. The flavors tend to deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making leftovers something to look forward to!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is vegan as long as you omit any dairy toppings.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is perfect for a cozy dinner, packed with flavor and nutrients.
Created by: Hallie Foster
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium squash (butternut or acorn), peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: cream or yogurt for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed squash to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth, cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until creamy.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a swirl of cream or yogurt if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g