Squash Soup with Roasted Garlic
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup with roasted garlic is a comforting bowl of goodness, perfect for chilly days.
Squash soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. The addition of roasted garlic adds a rich depth of flavor, making this soup a favorite among family and friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms the soul
- Rich flavors from roasted garlic enhance the sweetness of the squash
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This versatile vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Additionally, it contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can contribute to overall health, making this soup a nourishing choice.
The natural sweetness of butternut squash makes it an ideal base for soups, especially when paired with roasted garlic. The roasting process enhances both the flavor and nutritional profile of the garlic, adding a rich, caramelized depth to the soup. Together, these ingredients create a comforting dish that is both satisfying and wholesome.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This squash soup is an excellent option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week. Once prepared, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for later use. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal that warms you up from the inside out.
To make your meal prep even easier, consider doubling the recipe. This way, you’ll have enough soup to last for multiple lunches or dinners. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, suitable for families or gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices or toppings, allowing you to make it your own.
Serving Suggestions
While this squash soup is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate your serving experience. Consider garnishing it with a swirl of cream or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an extra touch of richness. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can add a pop of color and a burst of flavor, making your presentation as appealing as the taste.
For a heartier meal, pair this soup with crusty bread or a simple salad. This combination not only enhances the overall dining experience but also adds texture and balance to your meal. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Instructions
Roast the Garlic
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30 minutes until soft.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add diced butternut squash and sauté for another 5 minutes.
Combine and Simmer
Add roasted garlic (squeezed out of the skin), vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your warm bowl of squash soup!
Storage Tips
To store leftover squash soup, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation and maintain the soup's creamy texture. If you plan to freeze it, consider portioning it into smaller containers or freezer bags for easy reheating, ensuring you only take out what you need.
When reheating the soup, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened after refrigeration, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This way, you can enjoy a creamy and delicious bowl of soup just like the first time.
Nutritional Information
This creamy squash soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. Each serving is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for any meal. The butternut squash contributes a significant amount of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body, supporting immune function and skin health.
In addition to its vitamin content, this soup is low in calories while being high in fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. The addition of roasted garlic not only enhances flavor but also offers antioxidant properties that can benefit overall health.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works well for this recipe.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan when using vegetable broth.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Squash Soup with Roasted Garlic
This creamy squash soup with roasted garlic is a comforting bowl of goodness, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Madison Cole
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30 minutes until soft.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add diced butternut squash and sauté for another 5 minutes.
Add roasted garlic (squeezed out of the skin), vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g