Squash Soup with Parmesan
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A comforting and creamy squash soup enriched with the nutty flavor of parmesan.
This rich and velvety squash soup is a perfect blend of seasonal flavors. The addition of parmesan adds a depth of flavor that elevates this humble soup to something extraordinary.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
- Nutty parmesan flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the squash
- Easy to make and perfect for chilly evenings
The Perfect Comfort Food
As the weather cools down, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of squash soup to lift your spirits. This dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly nourishing. Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, making it a nutritious choice for those chilly evenings. The creamy texture coupled with the nutty flavor of parmesan creates a delightful contrast that makes each spoonful a comforting experience.
This soup is versatile enough to serve as a starter or a main course. Pair it with warm crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. Whether you're cozying up by the fire or hosting friends for dinner, this squash soup is sure to impress.
Why Butternut Squash?
Butternut squash is a staple in many fall dishes for a reason. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory ingredients, allowing for a harmonious blend of flavors. When cooked, butternut squash becomes tender and creamy, making it the perfect base for soups.
Additionally, butternut squash is rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. Using fresh ingredients not only enhances the soup's flavor but also provides the essential nutrients your body craves during the colder months.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best things about this squash soup recipe is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the seasonings and add additional spices to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some freshly grated ginger during the cooking process.
If you prefer a more complex flavor profile, try incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary. A dash of nutmeg can also elevate the dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the squash. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash
Stir in the chopped butternut squash and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
Add Cream and Parmesan
Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating, but be sure to stir it every minute to ensure even heating.
For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the flavor and presentation of your butternut squash soup, consider topping it with a sprinkle of additional grated parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a dollop of sour cream. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a touch of color and freshness to each bowl.
For a more substantial meal, serve the soup alongside a hearty sandwich or a fresh salad. A grilled cheese sandwich pairs particularly well and offers a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy soup.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use another type of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as alternatives.
→ How can I make this soup thicker?
You can add more squash or reduce the amount of broth to achieve your desired thickness.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free. Just ensure your vegetable broth is also gluten-free.
Squash Soup with Parmesan
A comforting and creamy squash soup enriched with the nutty flavor of parmesan.
Created by: Bethany Clarke
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the chopped butternut squash and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 10g