Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy and flavorful roasted acorn squash soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering.
This roasted acorn squash soup combines the sweetness of roasted squash with aromatic spices, creating a delightful blend of flavors that will warm your soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that is comforting and satisfying
- Deliciously sweet and savory flavor profile
- Perfectly spiced for a warm, inviting bowl
The Benefits of Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This versatile vegetable is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which support a healthy immune system and promote good vision. Additionally, acorn squash is rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight by keeping you feeling full longer.
Incorporating acorn squash into your diet can also provide a boost to your heart health. The antioxidants found in this squash can help reduce inflammation, while the potassium content supports healthy blood pressure levels. This makes roasted acorn squash soup not just a comforting dish, but a nourishing one as well.
Perfect Pairings
Roasted acorn squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a wholesome meal, consider serving it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad filled with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette. The contrast of textures and flavors will elevate your dining experience.
For those looking to impress at a gathering, this soup can be a fantastic starter. Pair it with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the sweetness of the squash. Alternatively, a warm, spiced apple cider can enhance the cozy vibes of your meal.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers of this delightful soup, storing it is a breeze. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container when freezing, as the soup will expand.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For the best results, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened during storage, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
Gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Roast the Acorn Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the acorn squash halves with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place them cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-35 minutes until tender.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is roasted, scoop the flesh into the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth, cinnamon, nutmeg, and bring to a simmer. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Enjoy your delicious roasted acorn squash soup!
Nutritional Information
This roasted acorn squash soup is not only flavorful but also a healthy option for any meal. Each serving is rich in vitamins and minerals, offering a great balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, thanks to the addition of coconut milk. This makes it a perfect choice for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.
A typical serving contains approximately 200 calories, making it a low-calorie option that’s still filling. The fiber content aids digestion, while the antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body, promoting overall health.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during the blending step. This will give your soup a warm, spicy undertone that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the squash.
If you'd like to introduce more texture to the soup, try adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas as a topping. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, but keep in mind that different squashes will have varying sweetness and texture.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
This creamy and flavorful roasted acorn squash soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering.
Created by: Eliza Thornton
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the acorn squash halves with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place them cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-35 minutes until tender.
In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Once the squash is roasted, scoop the flesh into the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth, cinnamon, nutmeg, and bring to a simmer. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g