Squash Soup for Meal Prep
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This delicious squash soup is perfect for meal prep, providing a hearty and nutritious option that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
This squash soup is not only nourishing but also incredibly easy to make. It's a fantastic addition to your weekly meal prep routine, ensuring you have a warm and comforting dish ready to go.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Packed with seasonal flavors and nutrients
- Easily customizable with your favorite spices
The Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is a rich source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Additionally, the fiber content in squash aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.
Incorporating seasonal vegetables like butternut squash into your diet is an excellent way to boost your immune system. The antioxidants found in squash can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. This soup is an easy and tasty way to enjoy these health benefits throughout the week.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best things about this squash soup is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder. Alternatively, you can enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
If you're not a fan of coconut milk, you can substitute it with heavy cream or a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk. This allows you to tailor the soup to your dietary needs while still keeping it creamy and satisfying. Don't hesitate to add in other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This squash soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weekdays. It can be made in large batches and stored in individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
When properly stored in airtight containers, this soup can last in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in freezer-safe bags or containers. This way, you'll always have a comforting meal on hand whenever you need it.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed squash, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for future meals.
Enjoy your homemade squash soup any time you need a comforting meal!
Storage Tips
To ensure the freshness of your squash soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to storage containers. Glass containers are a great choice as they are microwave-safe and won't retain odors. Label each container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
If you decide to freeze the soup, it's best to do so in single servings. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need. When reheating frozen soup, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Pairing Suggestions
This creamy squash soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or a quinoa salad. The contrast of flavors and textures will elevate your dining experience.
For those who enjoy a bit of protein, adding roasted chickpeas or grilled chicken can turn this soup into a more filling dish. Top your bowl with these extras just before serving to add crunch and depth to the meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How long does the soup last in the refrigerator?
The soup can last up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan when using vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ What can I serve with the soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Squash Soup for Meal Prep
This delicious squash soup is perfect for meal prep, providing a hearty and nutritious option that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Created by: Harper Collins
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent.
Add the cubed squash, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for future meals.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g