Introduction:
The Creamy Butternut Squash Soup is the perfect cozy comfort dish for autumn days. Silky smooth with a hint of sweetness and warm spices, this soup is a bowl full of seasonal flavors that will warm both your heart and soul. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer for a fall gathering or enjoying it as a light dinner, this creamy delight will be a favorite addition to your recipe collection. With the subtle blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the rich creaminess from coconut milk or heavy cream, each spoonful is an ode to autumn’s bounty.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: roasted squash cubes and a swirl of coconut milk for topping
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Butternut Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the squash cook for 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blending it until smooth.
Step 4: Add Creaminess and Seasonings
Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream, along with the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors blend together.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with a swirl of coconut milk, roasted squash cubes, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy your comforting, creamy bowl of butternut squash goodness!
COOKING Note:
For an added depth of flavor, you can roast the butternut squash before adding it to the soup. This will enhance the natural sweetness and give the soup a richer, roasted profile. If you don’t have coconut milk, heavy cream works wonderfully to add a rich, creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this soup with a side of warm crusty bread or a fresh autumn salad. It also pairs beautifully with toasted nuts or seeds sprinkled on top, which adds a delightful crunch. You can serve this soup as a starter for a fall dinner or as a light meal on its own.
Tips:
- You can prepare this soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an easy meal for busy weeknights.
- For a lower-calorie version, use light coconut milk or reduce the amount of cream added.
- If you like a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- This recipe can also be made vegan by using coconut milk and vegetable broth.
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cooking Time:25 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 400 mg
Conclusion:
The Creamy Butternut Squash Soup is a fall classic that combines the warmth of spices with the smoothness of the butternut squash. Easy to make and full of nutritious ingredients, this soup is both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy family dinner or a seasonal appetizer, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for cooler weather.
FAQ:
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to enjoy.
Q: Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
A: Absolutely! Pre-cut squash will save time in the kitchen and works just as well for this recipe.
Q: What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
A: You can use a regular blender instead. Just blend the soup in batches and be careful as the soup will be hot!
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A: Yes, you can add carrots, sweet potatoes, or even a small apple to add different flavors. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: roasted squash cubes and a swirl of coconut milk for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Butternut Squash
- Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the squash cook for 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blending it until smooth.
Step 4: Add Creaminess and Seasonings
- Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream, along with the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors blend together.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with a swirl of coconut milk, roasted squash cubes, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy your comforting, creamy bowl of butternut squash goodness!
Notes
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