Squash Soup with Roasted Garlic
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup is blended with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, making it a comforting dish perfect for chilly days.
This squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. The roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the squash.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
- Rich flavors from roasted garlic that elevate the dish
- Perfectly balanced sweetness from the squash
The Perfect Comfort Food
On chilly days, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy. This creamy squash soup with roasted garlic not only warms you from the inside out but also fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma. The smooth texture combined with the rich flavors creates a perfect harmony that makes each spoonful enjoyable. It's a dish that can easily become a favorite in your household.
Squash is a versatile ingredient that shines in various culinary applications, but when roasted, it takes on a sweet, nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish. Pairing it with roasted garlic adds depth and a hint of sweetness, making this soup a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is rich in vitamins A and C, which are vital for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting good vision. Additionally, it contains dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, making this soup a wholesome choice for a light lunch or dinner.
Roasted garlic, another star ingredient in this recipe, offers numerous health benefits. It is known for its antioxidant properties and has been linked to improved heart health. Including it in your diet can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. By incorporating these nutritious ingredients, this squash soup is not just a comforting dish but a healthful one as well.
Customization and Variations
One of the great things about this squash soup is its versatility. Feel free to experiment by adding different herbs and spices to suit your taste. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper could elevate the flavor profile, providing an interesting twist that your family and friends will love.
For a vegan version of this soup, simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk for a creamy texture without the dairy. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for additional flavor and nutrition. The recipe is a canvas, and you can adjust it according to your preferences!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Gather all ingredients before starting.
Instructions
Prepare the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and place it in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for about 25 minutes or until soft.
Roast the Garlic
While the squash is roasting, prepare the garlic. Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast in the oven alongside the squash for about 30 minutes until soft.
Cook the Onions
In a large pot, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash and garlic are roasted, add them to the pot with the onions. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for another 10 minutes, then blend until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of squash soup!
Make sure to adjust seasoning to your taste.
Storing and Reheating
This squash soup can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors may deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to regain your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy squash soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the presentation. For a gourmet touch, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic reduction over the soup before serving.
This dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Set up a soup bar with various toppings such as croutons, fresh herbs, or a dollop of yogurt to allow guests to make their own unique bowls. It’s a fun way to engage everyone and make the meal even more enjoyable!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, simply omit the heavy cream or use a plant-based cream alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, let it cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
→ 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 is blended with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, making it a comforting dish perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Ivy Richardson
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and place it in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for about 25 minutes or until soft.
While the squash is roasting, prepare the garlic. Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast in the oven alongside the squash for about 30 minutes until soft.
In a large pot, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Once the squash and garlic are roasted, add them to the pot with the onions. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for another 10 minutes, then blend until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of squash soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g