Squash Soup Without Cream
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delightful and creamy squash soup made without cream, perfect for a cozy meal.
This squash soup is a comforting dish that highlights the natural sweetness of squash. It’s perfect for chilly days and can be enjoyed as a starter or a main course.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, natural sweetness from the squash
- Smooth and velvety texture without the heaviness of cream
- A healthy and wholesome meal option
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. This vibrant squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which are vital for maintaining healthy skin and a robust immune system. Additionally, butternut squash contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer, making it a great choice for a wholesome meal.
Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can also help with weight management. Its natural sweetness and creamy texture make it a satisfying substitute for heavier ingredients like cream. By using this versatile squash in your soup, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also creating a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This squash soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days and can easily be frozen for longer storage. Simply portion out the soup into individual containers and freeze for a quick and healthy meal on busy days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Meal prepping this soup also allows you to enjoy its flavors over several days, with the taste often improving as the ingredients meld together. Add your favorite garnishes, such as croutons or pumpkin seeds, just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
Customizable Flavor Profiles
One of the best aspects of this squash soup is its versatility. While the base recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with additional spices and herbs to suit your taste. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat or some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
You can also enhance the texture of the soup by incorporating other vegetables or legumes. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even lentils can be great additions that complement the natural sweetness of butternut squash while adding extra nutrition to your meal.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious squash soup.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your squash soup.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine with the aromatics.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Season and Serve
Stir in the ground ginger, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy squash soup!
Storage Tips
When storing your squash soup, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. This prevents condensation and helps maintain the soup's texture. If you plan to freeze it, consider using freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
For optimal flavor and texture, consume the soup within three months if frozen. When reheating, do so gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy consistency if it thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette makes for a perfect complement, allowing you to soak up every last drop of soup. Alternatively, a fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
For added richness, consider topping your soup with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese. These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also add a delightful creaminess that complements the soup beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is entirely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
→ Can I add cream if I want?
Yes, if you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a splash of cream at the end.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Squash Soup Without Cream
A delightful and creamy squash soup made without cream, perfect for a cozy meal.
Created by: Eden Clarke
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine with the aromatics.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Stir in the ground ginger, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g