Squash Soup with Ginger
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy and comforting squash soup is infused with warming ginger, making it the perfect dish for chilly days.
This squash soup with ginger is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of sweet squash and spicy ginger creates a wonderfully balanced soup that can be enjoyed as a starter or a main course.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors
- Creamy texture that's both comforting and satisfying
- Perfect for warming up on a cold day
The Warmth of Ginger
Ginger is not only a flavor powerhouse but also a celebrated ingredient in many cultures for its health benefits. Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, ginger adds a delightful warmth to this creamy squash soup. As the soup simmers, the ginger's spiciness melds beautifully with the natural sweetness of the butternut squash, creating a harmonious balance that is both invigorating and comforting.
Incorporating ginger into your meals can be a fantastic way to boost your immune system, especially during colder months when colds and flu are prevalent. This recipe not only delights your taste buds but also provides a nourishing dish that can help keep you healthy and warm.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This squash soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade, wholesome meal throughout the week. Prepare a big batch, and store individual portions in airtight containers. The flavors deepen and improve upon resting, making it even more delicious when reheated. Simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
You can also freeze the soup for up to three months, making it a great option for a healthy, last-minute meal. Just remember to leave some space in the container to allow for expansion when freezing.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your squash soup experience, consider garnishing it with a drizzle of coconut cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or a dash of chili flakes for a hint of heat. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
For a touch of sophistication, serve the soup in elegant bowls and add a few toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons on top for added texture. These small additions can transform a simple dish into a gourmet experience, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Squash and Ginger
Add the diced squash and grated ginger to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Serve warm, garnished with a swirl of coconut milk or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, both essential for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. It is also high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full longer. This low-calorie vegetable can be a great addition to any diet, providing a wealth of nutrients without the extra calories.
Additionally, the vibrant orange color of butternut squash signals the presence of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress in the body. Including this nutrient-dense ingredient in your meals contributes to overall health and wellness, making this soup not only delicious but also beneficial for your body.
The Versatility of Soup
Soup is one of the most versatile dishes you can prepare. You can easily adapt recipes based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. This squash soup can be customized by adding other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes, or incorporating proteins such as lentils or chickpeas for a heartier option.
Moreover, soups can be served hot or cold, making them suitable year-round. This particular recipe shines in the fall and winter but can also be enjoyed in spring or summer if you choose to serve it chilled, providing a refreshing twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as alternatives.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping.
Squash Soup with Ginger
This creamy and comforting squash soup is infused with warming ginger, making it the perfect dish for chilly days.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced squash and grated ginger to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 360mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g