Squash Soup Without Cream
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delightful and healthy squash soup that is creamy in texture but completely dairy-free. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter for any meal.
This squash soup is a wonderful blend of flavors, showcasing the natural sweetness of squash without the heaviness of cream. Perfect for those who enjoy a lighter yet satisfying meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Naturally creamy without any dairy
- Packed with vitamins and nutrients
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find
- Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner
A Wholesome Choice
This squash soup is not just a delicious option for dinner; it’s also a health-conscious choice that everyone will enjoy. Packed with vitamins and minerals, the main ingredient—squash—offers an abundance of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining good health and supporting a robust immune system, making this soup a smart addition to your weekly meal plan.
The absence of cream means this recipe is much lighter than traditional squash soups, making it suitable for a variety of diets, including vegan and lactose-free. You can relish the creamy texture and rich flavor without the heaviness, allowing you to indulge guilt-free. Plus, the natural sweetness of the squash shines through, creating a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet healthy.
Easy to Prepare
One of the best aspects of this squash soup recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare a delicious meal in under an hour. The recipe calls for basic kitchen staples that you likely already have on hand, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Moreover, the process is incredibly forgiving. If you find yourself short on time, you can chop the vegetables ahead of time or even prepare the soup in larger batches for easy reheating later. This flexibility makes it not only a great dinner option but also an excellent choice for meal prep as you can easily portion it out for lunches throughout the week.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This squash soup is versatile enough to serve in various settings. Whether as a cozy starter for a family gathering or as a comforting main dish on a chilly evening, it fits seamlessly into any meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete dining experience that is sure to impress your guests.
Additionally, the soup’s vibrant color and inviting aroma make it visually appealing, enhancing any dining table's atmosphere. You can easily elevate its presentation with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of herbs, making it an ideal dish for both casual meals and more formal occasions.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Make sure to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash
Add the diced squash to the pot and stir well. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the squash to soften slightly.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Season and Serve
Stir in the ground nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy squash soup!
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, this squash soup stores remarkably well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding other vegetables or spices. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can bring new dimensions to the flavor profile. You might also enhance its richness by stirring in a dollop of coconut milk or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
For a bit of crunch, consider topping the soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or a handful of croutons. These additions not only provide texture but also complement the creamy soup beautifully. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this dish to your taste preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash works well! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Squash Soup Without Cream
A delightful and healthy squash soup that is creamy in texture but completely dairy-free. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter for any meal.
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced squash to the pot and stir well. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the squash to soften slightly.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Stir in the ground nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g