Squash Soup with Roasted Garlic
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy and flavorful squash soup is infused with the rich taste of roasted garlic, making it a perfect dish for cozy evenings.
This squash soup with roasted garlic brings together the sweetness of squash and the deep, savory notes of roasted garlic. It's a comforting bowl of goodness that's easy to prepare and perfect for any season.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Deliciously roasted garlic flavor throughout
- Perfectly balanced sweetness from the squash
- Easy to prepare for any occasion
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and good vision. Additionally, it's rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full. Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can help support your immune system and promote overall well-being.
With its naturally sweet and nutty flavor, butternut squash can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and roasted vegetable medleys. This versatility makes it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. It's a fantastic way to add a touch of warmth and comfort to your meals during the colder months.
The Magic of Roasted Garlic
Roasting garlic transforms its pungent raw flavor into something wonderfully sweet and mellow. This rich, caramelized taste enhances the overall depth of flavor in your squash soup, making it truly irresistible. Roasted garlic is also known for its numerous health benefits, including boosting your immune system and having anti-inflammatory properties.
Incorporating roasted garlic into your dishes is an easy way to elevate everyday recipes. You can spread it on bread, mix it into mashed potatoes, or, of course, blend it into soups. The aroma of roasting garlic fills your kitchen with warmth, setting the perfect mood for a cozy evening at home.
Perfect Pairings
This squash soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider adding a protein source like grilled chicken or chickpeas. A sprinkle of pumpkin seeds on top adds a delightful crunch and extra nutrients, making each spoonful a treat.
To complement the flavors of the soup, serve it with a glass of white wine or a warm herbal tea. The soothing, creamy texture of the soup combined with the right beverage can turn your dining experience into a delightful culinary journey.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Gather all your ingredients and get ready to make a delicious soup!
Instructions
Prepare the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half, remove the seeds, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes or until tender.
Roast the Garlic
Wrap the head of garlic in aluminum foil and place it in the oven alongside the squash. Roast for about 30 minutes until it is soft and caramelized.
Sauté the Onion
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Once the squash and garlic are done roasting, scoop the flesh of the squash into the pot. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the pot as well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Serve
Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Enjoy your delicious squash soup with roasted garlic!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk if it thickens too much.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this squash soup to suit your tastes. You can experiment with different types of squash, such as acorn or pumpkin, for a unique flavor profile. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can bring a lovely warmth and depth to the dish, perfect for spice lovers.
For a touch of elegance, consider topping your soup with a swirl of crème fraîche or a drizzle of balsamic reduction. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also brighten the dish, adding a beautiful pop of color and freshness.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn or pumpkin, but cooking times may vary.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan, as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Squash Soup with Roasted Garlic
This creamy and flavorful squash soup is infused with the rich taste of roasted garlic, making it a perfect dish for cozy evenings.
Created by: Madison Cole
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half, remove the seeds, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes or until tender.
Wrap the head of garlic in aluminum foil and place it in the oven alongside the squash. Roast for about 30 minutes until it is soft and caramelized.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Once the squash and garlic are done roasting, scoop the flesh of the squash into the pot. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the pot as well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g