Butternut Squash Apple Soup
Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes
A comforting and creamy soup that combines the sweetness of butternut squash and apples, perfect for chilly days.
This Butternut Squash Apple Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to your table. The natural sweetness of the squash and apples combined with spices creates a perfect bowl of goodness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
- Creamy texture that's both satisfying and comforting
- Easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings
The Perfect Fall Comfort Food
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Butternut Squash Apple Soup to embrace the season. This soup is a beautiful representation of autumn flavors, combining the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the tartness of fresh apples. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that evokes the warmth and comfort of home, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings.
Moreover, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a starter or as a main dish paired with crusty bread. Its creamy texture makes it appealing to both adults and children alike, ensuring that it can be a staple in your family’s meal rotation. Plus, the vibrant orange hue adds a pop of color to your table, making it visually appealing.
Health Benefits of Butternut Squash and Apples
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, it contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can support overall health, particularly during the colder months when hearty, nutritious meals are needed.
Apples, on the other hand, are a great addition to this soup, offering their own array of health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber, they promote heart health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. The combination of these two ingredients not only creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile but also provides a nourishing dish that supports your well-being.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
While this Butternut Squash Apple Soup is delightful on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate it further. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for an added creaminess. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons can also add a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall texture of the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce can introduce a pleasant heat to the soup.
If you're looking to customize the flavors, feel free to experiment with herbs and spices. Adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme or a dash of curry powder can completely transform the soup, giving it a unique twist. Additionally, this recipe is easily adaptable for those with dietary preferences; you can substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth or even use coconut milk for a richer, creamier consistency.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 apples, cored and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are translucent.
Add Squash and Apples
Add the cubed butternut squash and chopped apples to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Enjoy your delicious homemade butternut squash apple soup!
Storage Tips
This Butternut Squash Apple Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. To keep it fresh, store the soup in an airtight container. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If you find the soup has thickened upon refrigeration, add a splash of water or broth to return it to your desired consistency.
For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. You'll have a comforting meal ready in no time!
Pairing Suggestions
Butternut Squash Apple Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the creamy soup, creating a satisfying and balanced dining experience.
Wine lovers might enjoy a glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir to accompany this dish. The subtle flavors in these wines will enhance the sweetness of the soup without overpowering it, making for a delightful pairing.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What kind of apples work best for this recipe?
Sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work wonderfully in this soup.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, just ensure the vegetable broth is vegan and use a plant-based oil if desired.
Butternut Squash Apple Soup
A comforting and creamy soup that combines the sweetness of butternut squash and apples, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Warm & Hearty Dishes
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 apples, cored and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash and chopped apples to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g