Are you craving a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious soup that's also surprisingly healthy? Look no further! This creamy butternut squash soup, expertly blended with a Vitamix, is the perfect answer. It's a fantastic healthy meal, a quick dinner idea, and a testament to the magic of homemade cooking. Forget those bland, watery soups; this recipe delivers a velvety texture and vibrant flavor that will leave you wanting more. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness
- Optional Garnishes: Toasted pepitas, a swirl of cream, fresh sage leaves, croutons
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the squash and spices: Add the cubed butternut squash, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the pot. Stir well to coat the squash with the oil and spices.
Step 3: Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the squash is mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is very tender.
Step 4: Blend with your Vitamix: Carefully transfer the cooked soup to your Vitamix (or a high-speed blender). Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Start on a lower speed and gradually increase to the highest setting for optimal results. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Season and serve: Return the blended soup to the pot (if needed) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk (if using) for extra richness. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as toasted pepitas, a swirl of cream, fresh sage leaves, or croutons.
Cooking Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Soup:
- Roasting the squash: For a deeper, more intense flavor, roast the butternut squash before adding it to the soup. Simply toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Adjusting spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg to your preference. A dash of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Curry Butternut Squash Soup: Add 1 tablespoon of curry powder along with the other spices for a flavorful twist.
- Apple Butternut Squash Soup: Add 1 diced apple along with the onion for a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy Butternut Squash Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for some heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-10g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This delicious and easy butternut squash soup is a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can be both healthy and incredibly flavorful. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this homemade cooking masterpiece! It's one of the best recipes for utilizing your Vitamix and a true crowd-pleaser.