Vegan Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This vegan squash soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Made with fresh squash and a blend of spices, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
This vegan squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that will warm your soul. Inspired by seasonal produce, it highlights the natural sweetness of squash, making every spoonful a comforting experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture without any dairy
- Rich flavor from roasted squash and spices
- Quick and easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner
The Perfect Comfort Food
As the temperatures drop, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul. This vegan squash soup offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to your fall and winter meals. The creamy consistency, thanks to the coconut milk, provides a rich mouthfeel that will have you craving more.
Not only is this soup delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, and it contains antioxidants that help boost your immune system. Coupled with the health benefits of garlic and spices, this dish is a wholesome way to nourish your body during colder months.
Versatile and Adaptable
One of the best aspects of this vegan squash soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. For instance, feel free to swap out butternut squash for other varieties like acorn or pumpkin, or add in other vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrients.
Additionally, the spices in this recipe can be adjusted to suit your palate. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of cumin and ginger. The possibilities are endless!
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This vegan squash soup is an excellent option for meal prep! You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy it again. The flavors tend to deepen as the soup sits, making it even tastier the next day.
If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat until warm.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth 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 the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, along with the cumin and ginger. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce 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 smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a blender. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of coconut milk if desired.
Enjoy your delicious vegan squash soup with crusty bread or a side salad.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients. It is an excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, supporting vision and immune health. Additionally, it contains dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
The inclusion of coconut milk in this recipe adds healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. Moreover, it contributes to the creamy texture of the soup without any dairy, making it suitable for those following a vegan diet.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your vegan squash soup, consider serving it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an extra layer of flavor and texture, enhancing both the presentation and taste.
For a gourmet touch, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or alongside a platter of assorted crackers. This not only makes for a visually appealing dish but also adds a fun interactive element to your meal.
Pairing with Beverages
When it comes to pairing beverages with your vegan squash soup, consider serving it with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines complement the sweetness of the squash beautifully without overpowering the dish.
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing herbal tea like chamomile or mint can be a great choice. The soothing properties of herbal tea can enhance the cozy experience of enjoying a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute with acorn squash or pumpkin for a different flavor.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup while it simmers.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored 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.
Vegan Squash Soup
This vegan squash soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Made with fresh squash and a blend of spices, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
Created by: Chelsea Payne
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 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 the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, along with the cumin and ginger. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a blender. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of coconut milk if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g