Squash Soup Slow Cooker
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm up with this comforting squash soup, made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
This slow cooker squash soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for chilly days, it brings warmth and nutrition to your table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
- Simple ingredients that create a deliciously complex flavor
- Perfectly spiced for a comforting bowl of goodness
The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker
Slow cookers are a fantastic kitchen tool that simplify meal preparation and enhance flavors. By allowing ingredients to simmer together for hours, the slow cooker ensures that every bite of your squash soup is infused with rich, complex flavors. This method also retains the nutrients in the vegetables, making your soup not only delicious but also nutritious.
Furthermore, using a slow cooker frees up your time. You can set it and forget it while you go about your day, returning to a warm, ready-to-eat meal. This is especially beneficial for busy individuals or families looking for convenient meal solutions without compromising on taste.
Choosing the Right Squash
When making squash soup, the type of squash you choose can significantly affect the overall flavor and texture. Butternut squash is a popular choice due to its sweet, nutty flavor and creamy consistency when cooked. However, you can also experiment with other varieties like acorn or delicata squash for unique tastes.
Freshness is key; look for squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, blemish-free skin. If you prefer convenience, pre-cut squash is available at many grocery stores, saving you time on preparation without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with warm, crusty bread for dipping, or a side salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish each bowl with a swirl of coconut milk or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the flavors. Additionally, topping your soup with roasted pumpkin seeds adds a delightful crunch and enhances the dish's nutty notes.
Ingredients
Squash Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup coconut milk
Gather all ingredients before starting the slow cooker.
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
Add to Slow Cooker
Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cumin, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the squash is tender.
Blend and Serve
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Enjoy your warm and creamy squash soup!
Storage Tips
This squash soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk if it thickens too much during storage.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. These nutrients are vital for maintaining a healthy immune system, promoting good vision, and regulating blood pressure. By incorporating squash into your diet, you can enjoy these health benefits while relishing the delicious taste of this soup.
The addition of coconut milk not only enhances the creaminess of the soup but also provides healthy fats. These fats can help improve heart health and keep you satiated longer. Overall, this squash soup is a nourishing dish that combines great taste with health-conscious ingredients.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn or pumpkin squash.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth and coconut milk, it is completely vegan.
Squash Soup Slow Cooker
Warm up with this comforting squash soup, made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Created by: Paige Sullivan
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Squash Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup coconut milk
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cumin, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the squash is tender.
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g