Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm up with this creamy and flavorful roasted acorn squash soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
This roasted acorn squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The squash is roasted to bring out its natural sweetness and combined with aromatic spices for a comforting meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Naturally sweet flavor with a hint of spice
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
The Nutritional Benefits of Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is not just delicious; it’s also packed with essential nutrients. This winter vegetable is a great source of vitamins A and C, both of which support immune function and skin health. Additionally, it contains a good amount of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Including acorn squash in your diet can contribute to overall well-being while satisfying your taste buds.
Moreover, acorn squash is rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. This can be particularly beneficial during colder months when our immune systems may need a little extra support. The natural sweetness of acorn squash makes it a versatile ingredient, allowing you to enjoy its health benefits in both savory and sweet dishes.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This roasted acorn squash soup is an excellent choice for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays. Simply reheat a portion whenever you need a quick and nutritious meal. You can also freeze the soup for longer-term storage, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors whenever the mood strikes.
To make meal prep even easier, consider doubling the recipe. This way, you’ll have enough soup to enjoy throughout the week or to share with family and friends. Portion it into individual containers, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go, ensuring that healthy eating is always an option, no matter how hectic your schedule may be.
Customization Ideas
One of the best aspects of this roasted acorn squash soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe according to your taste preferences. For those who enjoy a little heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, you could incorporate other spices like nutmeg or smoked paprika to create a unique twist.
You can also enhance the texture by adding ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers. For a heartier version, consider including cooked grains like quinoa or rice. This not only adds substance but also elevates the nutritional value of the soup, making it a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
Enjoy your delicious roasted acorn squash soup!
Instructions
Instructions
Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the cut sides of the acorn squashes with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes until tender.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Combine Ingredients
Once the squash is roasted, scoop the flesh into the pot with the onions and garlic. Add the vegetable broth, cumin, cinnamon, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in coconut milk and blend again. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Enjoy your warm and comforting soup!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your roasted acorn squash soup, serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A slice of sourdough or a baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite. Alternatively, a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
For an extra touch, consider garnishing the soup with toasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful flavor contrast, making each bowl even more inviting.
Storage Tips
When storing your roasted acorn squash soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents condensation from forming, which can alter the texture. If you plan to freeze the soup, make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
To reheat the soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Why Homemade is Better
Making your own roasted acorn squash soup at home allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. Store-bought soups often contain preservatives and added sugars, which can detract from the natural goodness of the ingredients. By preparing the soup yourself, you can ensure that it’s made with fresh, wholesome components that align with your dietary preferences.
Additionally, homemade soup is a wonderful opportunity to experiment with flavors and textures. You can adjust the spices, swap out ingredients, or even try different toppings, making each batch uniquely your own. There’s something incredibly satisfying about serving a bowl of soup that you’ve crafted from start to finish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, but keep in mind that different squashes will alter the flavor and texture of the soup.
→ Can this soup be frozen?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool and then freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as long as you use vegetable broth.
Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
Warm up with this creamy and flavorful roasted acorn squash soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Ariana Brooks
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the cut sides of the acorn squashes with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes until tender.
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Once the squash is roasted, scoop the flesh into the pot with the onions and garlic. Add the vegetable broth, cumin, cinnamon, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in coconut milk and blend again. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g