Low Calorie Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Low Calorie Squash Soup is a delicious and healthy option for a light meal. With its vibrant color and comforting flavor, it's perfect for any season.
This Low Calorie Squash Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. It's a great way to enjoy the rich flavors of squash while keeping your calorie intake in check.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and creamy texture without the extra calories
- Packed with the natural sweetness of squash
- Perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for dinner parties
Nutritional Benefits
This Low Calorie Squash Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, both essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, the fiber content in squash aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making this soup a smart choice for weight management.
Coconut milk adds a creamy texture while providing healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. This combination of ingredients makes the soup a nutritious option for anyone looking to enjoy a light meal without sacrificing flavor.
The use of vegetable broth enhances the soup's flavor while keeping it low in calories. This ensures that you can indulge in a comforting bowl without the guilt. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
This squash soup can be served in numerous ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. For a cozy night in, pair it with whole grain bread or a fresh salad to create a fulfilling meal. The lightness of the soup complements hearty sides beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.
If you're hosting a dinner party, consider serving the soup as a starter. Its vibrant color and inviting aroma will impress your guests and set the tone for the meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a swirl of coconut milk for an elegant touch that elevates the presentation.
You can also customize the soup by adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Experimenting with different herbs and toppings can transform this simple recipe into a unique dish tailored to your preferences.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches), blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy low calorie squash soup!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're looking for alternatives to butternut squash, acorn squash or pumpkin can work just as well in this recipe. Both options will provide similar flavors and textures, ensuring that your soup remains hearty and satisfying.
For those who are dairy-sensitive, you can swap coconut milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly, but it will still yield a delicious result.
Feel free to add other vegetables to enhance the nutritional value of your soup. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even spinach can be great additions, making it more filling and colorful.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing drinks with this Low Calorie Squash Soup, a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully. The acidity of the wine balances the richness of the coconut milk, creating a harmonious dining experience.
For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving the soup with a refreshing herbal iced tea or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon. These beverages will cleanse the palate and enhance the soup's natural sweetness.
If you're looking for a bread pairing, opt for a crusty sourdough or a slice of whole-grain baguette. The textures will contrast nicely with the smoothness of the soup, making for a delightful, satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can substitute with acorn squash or pumpkin if you prefer.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly if you use vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
→ What can I pair with this soup?
It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Low Calorie Squash Soup
This Low Calorie Squash Soup is a delicious and healthy option for a light meal. With its vibrant color and comforting flavor, it's perfect for any season.
Created by: Aubrey Collins
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches), blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g