Squash Soup with Cumin
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A warm and comforting bowl of squash soup with a hint of cumin, perfect for chilly evenings.
This squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors, featuring the warm and earthy tones of cumin that complement the natural sweetness of the squash. It's a dish that not only warms the body but also delights the palate.
Why You Will Love This Soup
- Creamy texture with a hint of spice
- Nutritious and filling
- Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's rich in vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, squash is high in fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps you feel fuller for longer, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
This vibrant vegetable is also low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight. The natural sweetness of butternut squash balances perfectly with the warm spices in this soup, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you're enjoying it on a chilly evening or as part of your meal prep, you can feel good about including this wholesome ingredient in your meals.
Cumin: The Secret Ingredient
Cumin adds a unique depth of flavor to this squash soup, transforming a simple dish into something truly special. Known for its warm, earthy notes, cumin has been used in various cuisines worldwide for centuries. Not only does it enhance the taste, but cumin also offers health benefits, such as aiding digestion and providing anti-inflammatory properties.
Incorporating spices like cumin into your cooking can elevate your meals without adding extra calories. It’s an easy way to enhance flavor and introduce new tastes to your palate. This squash soup showcases cumin beautifully, making it a standout recipe that will have your family asking for seconds.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This squash soup with cumin is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or simply looking for a comforting meal on a weeknight, this soup fits the bill. It can be served as an appetizer or a main course, making it a great addition to any menu.
Additionally, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator or freeze individual portions for later. This makes it easy to have a nutritious and delicious meal on hand for those busy days when cooking from scratch is just not an option. The flavors only get better as it sits, making it a wonderful make-ahead dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ground cumin; cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender. If desired, stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess.
Season and Serve
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of cumin if desired.
Enjoy your delicious squash soup with cumin!
Storage Tips
To store leftover squash soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it will last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This squash soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty piece of bread or a light salad, making it a complete meal. For an extra touch, consider topping it with roasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess and texture. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also elevate the flavors, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
If you're looking to spice things up, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup before serving. This will give it an extra kick and tantalize your taste buds, making this comforting dish even more exciting.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with pumpkin or acorn squash.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth and omit the coconut milk.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
Squash Soup with Cumin
A warm and comforting bowl of squash soup with a hint of cumin, perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Megan Douglas
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ground cumin; cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender. If desired, stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess.
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of cumin if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g