Butternut Squash Soup with Cream
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A creamy and comforting butternut squash soup perfect for chilly days.
This rich and velvety butternut squash soup is a favorite during the fall and winter months. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the cream, making it a delightful dish that warms the soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Luxuriously creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
- Sweet and savory flavors that are perfectly balanced
- Easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. This vibrant vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Additionally, butternut squash is a great source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel fuller for longer. Incorporating it into your diet can also aid in weight management, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.
The natural sweetness of butternut squash pairs beautifully with savory ingredients, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This versatility allows it to be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads and beyond. Its creamy texture when cooked and blended makes it an ideal candidate for soups, offering a comforting and satisfying meal during colder months.
Perfect Pairings
Butternut squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or a warm, toasted baguette. A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the soup, adding freshness to your meal. For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing your soup with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds for added texture.
If you're looking to elevate your butternut squash soup, consider adding a pinch of spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon to enhance its natural sweetness. You can also experiment with toppings like crumbled feta cheese or a dollop of sour cream to introduce a creamy contrast. Each of these additions can take your soup from ordinary to extraordinary, delighting your taste buds.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Gather all these ingredients for a delicious soup!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Add Cream and Season
Return the soup to the pot (if using a blender), and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, serve the butternut squash soup in warm bowls. This not only keeps the soup at the perfect temperature but also creates an inviting presentation. For a touch of sophistication, consider garnishing each bowl with a swirl of heavy cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives.
Pair the soup with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay, which can complement the creamy texture and balance the flavors of the squash. Alternatively, a refreshing herbal tea can be a great non-alcoholic option, providing a soothing accompaniment to your meal.
Health Benefits of Heavy Cream
While heavy cream is often seen as a luxurious addition to recipes, it also offers some health benefits. It is a source of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are essential for various bodily functions. Including healthy fats in your diet can help with the absorption of these vitamins, making heavy cream a valuable ingredient in moderation.
Incorporating heavy cream in your butternut squash soup not only adds a decadent richness but also contributes to a satisfying meal that can keep you feeling full longer. This makes it an excellent choice for cozy dinners, especially when paired with wholesome ingredients like butternut squash and vegetables.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even apples can add depth to the flavor.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Butternut Squash Soup with Cream
A creamy and comforting butternut squash soup perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Return the soup to the pot (if using a blender), and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g