Squash Soup with Roasted Garlic
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy and flavorful squash soup with roasted garlic is the perfect comfort food for chilly days.
This squash soup is not only nourishing but also brings warmth and comfort during the colder months. The roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that will make this soup a favorite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture with a hint of sweetness from the squash
- Rich, aromatic flavor from roasted garlic
- Perfectly spiced for a cozy meal
- Easy to make and great for meal prep
The Comfort of Squash Soup
Squash soup is a quintessential comfort food that warms the soul, particularly on chilly evenings. The combination of smooth textures and rich flavors creates an inviting bowl that is hard to resist. Butternut squash, with its natural sweetness, pairs beautifully with the deep, roasted notes of garlic, making this soup not only comforting but also deliciously satisfying.
This squash soup is more than just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl. The creamy consistency, enhanced by coconut milk, adds a luxurious feel that elevates this recipe to a gourmet level. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in, this soup is sure to hit the spot.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, making it a great addition to your diet. These vitamins are known for their antioxidant properties, which help boost your immune system and promote healthy skin. Additionally, squash is a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and keeping you feeling full longer.
Roasted garlic not only adds a wonderful depth of flavor but also brings its own health benefits to the table. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a functional ingredient in this comforting soup. Coconut milk contributes healthy fats, offering a creamy texture while providing energy and boosting heart health.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This squash soup is perfect for meal prepping. It can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. This means you can enjoy a bowl of homemade soup anytime you wish, without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day.
To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This versatility not only saves time but also helps you maintain a healthy diet, as you can control the ingredients and flavors. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Gather all your ingredients and get ready to make a delicious soup!
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for about 30 minutes until soft.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is cooked, add the roasted garlic cloves and coconut milk. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or your favorite herbs.
Enjoy your warm and comforting squash soup!
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
To achieve the best flavor in your squash soup, make sure to roast the garlic until it’s golden and soft. This process enhances the sweetness and mellows the garlic’s sharpness, resulting in a more balanced dish. Additionally, feel free to experiment with spices; a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper can add an interesting twist to the traditional flavors.
If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some of the cooked squash before blending. Add it back to the soup after pureeing for a pleasing contrast. Garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds can also elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a warm, crusty baguette or a light, tangy salad to balance the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, grilled cheese or a quesadilla can make for an excellent accompaniment.
If you’re hosting a gathering, serve this soup as an appetizer in small cups for a delightful starter that will impress your guests. It’s a versatile dish that can easily transition from casual weeknight dinner to an elegant dinner party offering.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn or pumpkin.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan; just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers and freeze 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 and flavorful squash soup with roasted garlic is the perfect comfort food for chilly days.
Created by: Elodie Brooks
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for about 30 minutes until soft.
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the squash is tender.
Once the squash is cooked, add the roasted garlic cloves and coconut milk. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or your favorite herbs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g