Squash Soup with Parmesan
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm up with this creamy and flavorful squash soup, enriched with the savory taste of parmesan cheese.
This squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that showcases the sweetness of squash complemented by the savory notes of parmesan. Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s a comforting dish that will warm your heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that provides warmth and comfort
- Rich flavor enhanced by the sharpness of parmesan
- Simple ingredients that create a gourmet experience
- Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings
A Comforting Classic
Squash soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its creamy consistency and rich flavors make it a favorite during the colder months. Butternut squash, in particular, is known for its sweet and nutty taste, which pairs beautifully with the savory notes of parmesan cheese. This soup is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its vibrant orange hue that brightens up any meal.
This recipe for squash soup is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sautéed onions and garlic creates a fragrant base, while the addition of heavy cream and parmesan elevates the soup to a whole new level.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this squash soup is the perfect addition to your menu. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an ideal starter or a light main course. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that will impress your guests.
This soup is also versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences. By substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, you can easily make a vegan version that retains the delightful taste. Feel free to get creative with your toppings as well; a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of olive oil can add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’ll be pleased to know that this squash soup stores well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just remember to leave some space in the container if you’re freezing, as liquids expand when frozen.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftover soup, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture and prevent the cheese from separating.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Squash
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Add Cream and Parmesan
Return the soup to low heat, stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to heat through but do not boil.
Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is packed with nutrients, making this soup not only delicious but also highly nutritious. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Additionally, the fiber content in squash aids digestion, promoting a healthy gut.
Parmesan cheese adds a dose of protein and calcium, making this soup a well-rounded meal. The heavy cream contributes to the richness and provides some essential fats, which can help keep you satiated. Enjoying this soup can be a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while satisfying your comfort food cravings.
Serving Suggestions
For an elegant presentation, serve the squash soup in warm bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a few shavings of parmesan cheese. A drizzle of balsamic reduction or a swirl of cream can also enhance the visual appeal. Pair your soup with a light, crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors.
If you want to make the meal more substantial, consider serving the soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a hearty veggie quiche. This combination will surely satisfy your hunger and leave you feeling cozy and content.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as alternatives.
→ Is there a dairy-free option?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the parmesan.
→ How long does the soup keep in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, it freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Squash Soup with Parmesan
Warm up with this creamy and flavorful squash soup, enriched with the savory taste of parmesan cheese.
Created by: Paige Sullivan
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Return the soup to low heat, stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to heat through but do not boil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 8g