Creamy & Comforting Butternut Squash Soup is a warm and inviting dish that captures the essence of fall. This velvety soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect starter or main dish. Its natural sweetness from the squash is beautifully complemented by spices, creating a comforting bowl of goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds, peeled, seeded, and cubed)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Creamy & Comforting Butternut Squash Soup takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30-35 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Squash

1. Add Squash and Spices: Stir in the cubed butternut squash, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

1. Blend Until Smooth: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches, being careful with the hot liquid.
2. Stir in Coconut Milk: Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a countertop blender) and stir in the coconut milk. Heat over low until warmed through. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Creamy & Comforting Butternut Squash Soup (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	180
Protein	3g
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	24g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Add Spice: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Herb Variations: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or sage for added flavor.
• Nut Topping: Top with roasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts for extra texture.

Conclusion

Creamy & Comforting Butternut Squash Soup is the perfect dish for chilly days, offering warmth and nourishment in every spoonful. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a favorite among soup lovers, and it’s easy to prepare, making it a great addition to your fall and winter meal rotation!