Creamy Squash Soup with Sage
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Creamy squash soup with sage is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for chilly days.
This creamy squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The addition of sage adds a fragrant touch that complements the sweetness of the squash perfectly.
Why You'll Love This Soup
- Rich, creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
- Earthy sage flavor that elevates the dish
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
The Perfect Fall Comfort Food
As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy squash soup to embrace the season. This soup not only warms you up but also brings the flavors of autumn right to your table. The combination of butternut squash and sage creates a delightful harmony, making it an ideal choice for cozy evenings.
Enjoying this soup means more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings you comfort. The creamy texture envelops you like a soft blanket, while the fragrant notes of sage transport you to a serene autumn afternoon. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down and savor every bite.
Health Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's rich in vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Additionally, the fiber content in butternut squash aids digestion and can help you feel full longer, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Incorporating this vibrant vegetable into your meals can enhance your overall wellness. The antioxidants found in butternut squash contribute to reducing inflammation and promote heart health. It's a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this creamy squash soup with a crusty bread or a side salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully, adding a fresh contrast. Alternatively, a slice of sourdough or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping.
For a complete meal, serve this soup alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or savory pastries. These pairings not only enhance the flavors but also create a satisfying and hearty dining experience that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash and dried sage to the pot. Stir for a couple of minutes, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Add Cream and Season
Return the pureed soup to low heat, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm through and serve hot.
Garnish with fresh sage leaves if desired.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing your creamy squash soup is easy. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup may expand.
To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If the soup has thickened in the refrigerator or freezer, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this creamy squash soup is its versatility. You can customize it by adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use vegetable broth to keep it entirely plant-based.
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients as well. For instance, adding carrots or sweet potatoes can enhance the sweetness and nutrition of the soup. Topping it with roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons adds a delightful crunch, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash works well. Just ensure it’s thawed before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan cream alternative and use vegetable broth.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots or sweet potatoes would be excellent additions.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Creamy Squash Soup with Sage
Creamy squash soup with sage is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Gwendolyn Reed
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash and dried sage to the pot. Stir for a couple of minutes, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until the squash is tender.
Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Return the pureed soup to low heat, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm through and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g