Butternut Squash Soup

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🛒 Ingredients

  • 🎃 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–3 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 🧅 1 medium onion, diced
  • 🥕 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
  • 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 🥣 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added flavor)
  • 🥛 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for added creaminess)
  • 🌿 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
  • 🍂 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for a warming touch)
  • 🧂 Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 🧈 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 🌿 Optional: Pumpkin seeds or croutons for garnish

🍳 Instructions

Roast the Butternut Squash
  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Season the Squash:
    • Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet.
  3. Roast:
    • Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.
Prepare the Soup Base
  1. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and garlic, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Add the Roasted Squash:
    • Transfer the roasted squash to the pot and stir to combine with the aromatics.
  3. Add Broth:
    • Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Blend and Finish the Soup
  1. Blend Until Smooth:
    • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender and blend in batches.
  2. Adjust Consistency:
    • If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water until your desired consistency is reached.
  3. Add Cream:
    • Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cinnamon, if needed.
Serve and Garnish
  1. Garnish:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with pumpkin seeds, croutons, or a drizzle of cream.
  2. Serve Warm:
    • Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

💡 Tips and Variations

  • 🌶️ Add Heat: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  • 🍏 Sweet Twist: Add a diced apple to the roasting pan for a hint of sweetness.
  • 🧄 Garlic Lovers: Roast the garlic cloves along with the squash for deeper flavor.
  • 🧊 Make Ahead: The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

🍹 Serving Suggestions

Pair this Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh green salad for a cozy, satisfying meal. For a festive touch, serve it as an appetizer at holiday dinners.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Roasted Butternut Squash Soup combines the natural sweetness of roasted squash with aromatic herbs and spices. It’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for chilly days or holiday gatherings.

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