Butternut Squash Soup with Cream
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm up with this delightful butternut squash soup, perfectly blended with cream for a rich and comforting flavor.
This butternut squash soup is a seasonal favorite, bringing warmth and comfort to any table. The creamy texture combined with the natural sweetness of the squash makes it a perfect dish for chilly evenings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that warms the soul
- Natural sweetness balanced with savory spices
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. This vibrant vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, providing a boost to your immune system and promoting healthy skin. The high fiber content aids digestion, making this soup a wholesome choice for all ages.
Furthermore, butternut squash is a low-calorie food, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Its natural sweetness appeals to both children and adults, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes. Incorporating butternut squash into your meals can help support overall health while satisfying your taste buds.
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
For an extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the soup. This caramelizes the natural sugars and enhances the sweetness. Simply toss the diced squash in olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast in a preheated oven until golden brown.
Don't hesitate to experiment with spices! While nutmeg is a fantastic addition, you can also try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a unique twist. These spices can elevate the flavor profile, making the soup even more enjoyable.
If you prefer a lighter version of the soup, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk. This not only reduces the calories but also adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the squash beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Butternut squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you feeling satisfied and warm.
For a gourmet touch, consider garnishing your soup with toasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This not only adds visual appeal but also introduces additional layers of flavor that enhance the overall experience.
If you're hosting a dinner party, serve the soup in elegant bowls and pair it with a light salad made of mixed greens and a citrus dressing. This elegant presentation will impress your guests and create a memorable dining experience.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm. Optionally, add a drizzle of cream on top for garnish.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
This butternut squash soup is perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutritional Information
A serving of butternut squash soup is not only comforting but also nutritious. Each bowl is loaded with vitamins and minerals, providing a healthy dose of antioxidants. The combination of butternut squash and heavy cream makes for a balanced meal rich in carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.
For those monitoring their dietary intake, this soup can easily be modified to fit various dietary needs. By using dairy-free cream alternatives or reducing the amount of cream, you can create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash; just thaw it before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use vegetable broth.
→ What spices can I add for more flavor?
Try adding cumin, cinnamon, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Butternut Squash Soup with Cream
Warm up with this delightful butternut squash soup, perfectly blended with cream for a rich and comforting flavor.
Created by: Jessica Brown
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm. Optionally, add a drizzle of cream on top for garnish.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 4g