Spicy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm up with this delicious and flavorful spicy squash soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
This spicy squash soup is a perfect blend of flavors and warmth. With the richness of squash paired with spices, it's both comforting and invigorating.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that warms your soul
- The perfect balance of spice and sweetness
- Easy to make and great for meal prep
The Comfort of Squash Soup
There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially during the colder months. Spicy squash soup combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with just the right amount of heat, creating a dish that’s as inviting as it is delicious. The creamy texture envelops your taste buds, making every spoonful a soothing experience, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. This soup not only warms you up but also nourishes your body. It’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a rich, hearty meal. Plus, the spices used in this recipe contribute additional health benefits, promoting digestion and boosting your immune system.
Versatility and Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of this spicy squash soup recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes, or even swapping out the spices to suit your taste preferences. Whether you like it extra spicy or mildly seasoned, this soup adapts beautifully to your culinary desires.
Moreover, this soup is ideal for meal prep. Make a large batch and store it in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats well, making it a convenient option for busy days. Simply pair it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delightful soup:
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Now that you have everything, let's start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your spicy squash soup:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. 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 and leave the rest as is. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and Garnish
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Enjoy your homemade spicy squash soup!
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
To enhance the depth of flavor in your spicy squash soup, consider roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the pot. Roasting caramelizes the sugars in the squash, intensifying its sweetness and adding a lovely depth of flavor. Simply toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast it in the oven until tender and golden brown.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different garnishes. While fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, toppings like a drizzle of coconut cream, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate your soup even further. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce complementary flavors and textures.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your spicy squash soup, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or a slice of your favorite rustic bread. A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup, while crusty bread is perfect for dipping. For an added twist, try serving the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an impressive presentation at gatherings.
This soup also makes an excellent starter for a dinner party. Its vibrant color and inviting aroma will entice your guests, while the rich flavor will leave them wanting more. Serve it alongside a selection of appetizers for a cozy, comforting meal that sets the tone for a delightful evening.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spicy Squash Soup Recipe
Warm up with this delicious and flavorful spicy squash soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. 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 and leave the rest as is. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g