Squash Soup with Apple
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This delightful squash soup with apple combines the sweetness of squash and apples to create a warm and comforting dish perfect for chilly days.
This squash soup with apple is a delightful blend of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors
- Creamy texture that's both comforting and satisfying
- Easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
- Nutritious and packed with vitamins
A Perfect Autumn Dish
As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, this squash soup with apple becomes a staple in many homes. The combination of sweet butternut squash and tart apples creates a flavorful harmony that embodies the essence of fall. It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of the season's bounty. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup warms both the body and soul.
The vibrant colors of the ingredients not only make the soup visually appealing but also contribute to its nutritional value. Butternut squash is rich in beta-carotene, while apples provide a good source of fiber and vitamin C. This makes the soup not only delicious but also a nourishing option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet during the colder months.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this squash soup is its versatility. You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. For a herbal twist, fresh thyme or sage can be added during the cooking process, enhancing the overall flavor profile and making the soup truly your own.
Additionally, this soup is an excellent base for experimenting with different vegetables. Feel free to incorporate carrots, sweet potatoes, or even parsnips. Each addition brings its unique taste and texture, ensuring that you can enjoy a different variation of this delightful soup every time you make it.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your meal, consider pairing this squash soup with a crusty bread or a fresh salad. A slice of warm, homemade bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every delicious drop of the soup. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the rich flavors, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
For those looking to serve this soup as part of a more elaborate dinner, it pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or a cheese platter featuring sharp cheeses that contrast the soup's sweetness. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this dish is sure to impress at any dining occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add Squash and Apple
Add the diced butternut squash and chopped apple to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
Add Broth and Seasoning
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Finish with Cream
If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your warm squash soup with apple as a starter or main dish!
Storage and Reheating
This squash soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For a quick option, you can also use the microwave, heating in short intervals until hot.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. It can be frozen for up to three months. When freezing, leave out the cream until you’re ready to serve, as this will ensure the best texture and flavor when thawed and reheated.
Nutritional Benefits
This squash soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting good vision. Apples offer a dose of fiber, which aids digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer, making this soup a great addition to a balanced diet.
Furthermore, the inclusion of garlic and onions adds a wealth of antioxidants and may contribute to heart health. By choosing vegetable broth as the base, this soup remains low in calories, making it suitable for various dietary needs while still delivering on flavor and satisfaction.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use any type of squash you prefer, such as acorn or pumpkin.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, if you omit the heavy cream or substitute it with a plant-based cream.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Squash Soup with Apple
This delightful squash soup with apple combines the sweetness of squash and apples to create a warm and comforting dish perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Autumn Pierce
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash and chopped apple to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g