Simple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Golden and velvety smooth, Butternut Squash Soup captures the heart of comfort cooking. Each spoonful delivers warmth, balance, and a subtle sweetness that feels both elegant and nourishing. With a handful of simple ingredients and a refined cooking technique, this recipe turns a humble squash into a restaurant worthy bowl of perfection that celebrates the beauty of simplicity.
Ingredients List
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish such as thyme or parsley
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Squash
Peel the butternut squash using a sharp peeler and cut it into even cubes. This ensures even cooking and a smooth texture once blended.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, warm the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the garlic and let it cook briefly until fragrant. This forms the flavor base of the soup.
Step 3: Add the Squash and Simmer
Add the cubed squash to the pot and stir well to coat with the aromatics. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the squash becomes tender and soft.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Once the squash is fully cooked, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until silky and smooth. If using a countertop blender, blend in batches and return the soup to the pot.
Step 5: Add Cream and Season
Pour in the coconut milk or cream and stir gently. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Let it warm for a few minutes on low heat until the flavors blend beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into warm bowls and garnish with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or fresh herbs for a refined finish. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a light salad.
Cook Time
Total Time: 35 minutes
Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking: 25 minutes
Servings
Serves 4 people
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 260
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 620mg
Storage Instructions
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens. Avoid boiling to preserve its creamy consistency.
Suggestions
- Roast the butternut squash before adding it to the soup for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Replace coconut milk with almond milk or oat milk for a lighter variation.
- Add a touch of ginger or curry powder for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Serve with a swirl of yogurt or toasted pumpkin seeds for an elegant presentation.
Seasonal Relevance
Butternut Squash Soup is the essence of autumn and early winter. Its rich color and naturally sweet flavor reflect the comfort of cooler days and cozy evenings. It is perfect for seasonal gatherings, holiday dinners, or a quiet meal by the fire. This dish embraces the bounty of fall harvests and transforms it into pure comfort in a bowl.
Conclusion
A perfectly crafted Butternut Squash Soup demonstrates that simplicity can yield extraordinary flavor. The harmony of creamy texture, natural sweetness, and gentle spice makes it timeless and satisfying. Whether served as a starter or a wholesome main course, this soup embodies balance, comfort, and elegance in every spoonful.
Simple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
4
servings10
minutes25
minutes1040
kcal35
minutesSimple Butternut Squash Soup is a velvety, golden comfort dish that transforms humble ingredients into a refined, nourishing meal. Each spoonful brings together the natural sweetness of butternut squash, the richness of cream or coconut milk, and the warmth of gentle spices. Perfect for cozy evenings, this soup embodies both simplicity and sophistication in every bowl.
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Fresh herbs for garnish such as thyme or parsley
Directions
- Peel and cube the butternut squash for even cooking.
- In a large pot, warm olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, then add garlic and cook briefly.
- Add the squash and stir well. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
- Blend the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches until smooth.
- Stir in coconut milk or cream, then season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Warm gently for a few minutes, then serve garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of cream.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Roasting the squash before cooking enhances its natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Substitute coconut milk with almond or oat milk for a lighter option.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
- Pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use frozen butternut squash instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works beautifully. It reduces prep time and cooks quickly without affecting the flavor or texture.
Q2. How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
For a thicker consistency, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. To make it thinner, add more broth or cream and stir until you reach the desired texture.
Q3. What can I pair with Butternut Squash Soup for a full meal?
It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, a slice of artisan bread, or a light grilled cheese sandwich for a satisfying and balanced meal.
