Squash Soup Roasted Veggie Blend
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delightful and comforting squash soup made with a blend of roasted vegetables, perfect for chilly days.
This squash soup is a warm embrace in a bowl, featuring a delightful blend of roasted squash and vegetables. It's not only nourishing but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
- A healthy blend of vegetables packed with nutrients
- Perfectly spiced for a cozy and comforting meal
The Magic of Roasting
Roasting vegetables is a transformative cooking method that brings out their natural sweetness and deep flavors. In this squash soup recipe, we start by roasting butternut squash, carrots, and onions. This process caramelizes the sugars in the vegetables, resulting in a rich, complex taste that forms the base of the soup. The high temperature of the oven allows the vegetables to become tender and slightly charred, enhancing their earthy flavors and adding depth to the final dish.
Additionally, roasting helps to concentrate the nutrients found in vegetables. When vegetables are cooked at high heat, they lose some water content, making the remaining nutrients more potent. This method not only enhances flavor but also boosts the health benefits of your meal. You’ll find that this squash soup is not just comforting and delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
Health Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. Rich in vitamin A, it supports eye health and boosts immunity. It's also a great source of vitamin C, which is important for maintaining healthy skin and reducing inflammation. Including squash in your diet can help improve overall health and vitality.
Moreover, squash is high in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut. The blend of roasted veggies in this soup enhances its fiber content, making it a filling, nutrient-dense meal. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle or shed a few pounds, as it keeps you satisfied without excess calories.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this squash soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream before serving.
You can also experiment with different vegetables. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even roasted red peppers can be fantastic additions to the soup. Each variation will bring its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish in multiple ways. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Make sure to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
Instructions
Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash, carrots, and onions with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes until tender and caramelized.
Prepare the Soup Base
In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the roasted vegetables and stir in the vegetable broth, cumin, and paprika.
Blend the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
Serve
Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious squash soup!
Serving Suggestions
This squash soup is delicious on its own, but it can also be elevated with various garnishes. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and flavor, while croutons provide a delightful crunch. Consider topping your soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of yogurt for added texture and taste.
Pair this comforting soup with a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty whole grain bread for a complete meal. The combination of flavors and textures will not only satisfy your hunger but also create a delightful dining experience.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, this soup stores beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and label them with the date. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes for a quick, nutritious meal that you can enjoy anytime!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure to use vegetable broth.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Squash Soup Roasted Veggie Blend
A delightful and comforting squash soup made with a blend of roasted vegetables, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Maya Richardson
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash, carrots, and onions with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes until tender and caramelized.
In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the roasted vegetables and stir in the vegetable broth, cumin, and paprika.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g