Squash Soup for Meal Prep
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This delicious squash soup is perfect for meal prepping. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it a great option for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
This squash soup is not only a comforting dish but also a nutritious option for meal prep. With its vibrant color and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly menu.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Packed with vitamins and minerals
- Versatile – can be enjoyed hot or cold
- Perfect for meal prep and easy to store
Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Squash, particularly butternut squash, is a nutritional powerhouse. It is rich in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, squash is loaded with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.
The fiber content in butternut squash aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making this soup a satisfying meal option. Incorporating squash into your diet can also contribute to heart health due to its potassium and magnesium content, which help regulate blood pressure.
Versatility in Serving
One of the best things about squash soup is its versatility. This recipe can be enjoyed hot on a chilly day, providing comfort and warmth, or served cold as a refreshing summer dish. With a few tweaks, you can customize the flavors to suit your palate—add spices like cayenne for heat or herbs like thyme for a fresh twist.
You can also pair this soup with various accompaniments. A slice of crusty bread, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dollop of yogurt can elevate your meal, making it both delicious and visually appealing. This adaptability makes it a fantastic option for any occasion.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This squash soup is ideal for meal prepping. Once prepared, it can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
When reheating, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens during storage, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency. This convenience allows you to enjoy nutritious meals without the hassle of daily cooking.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, and ground ginger to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is tender, remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
Add Coconut Milk and Season
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Allow the soup to cool before portioning into containers for meal prep.
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
To enhance the flavor of your squash soup, consider roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the pot. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that can elevate your soup. Simply toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F for about 25 minutes until tender.
Experimenting with different spices can also provide a unique twist to your soup. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, or even a splash of apple cider for a sweet and savory balance that complements the squash beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy squash soup can be beautifully garnished to enhance its presentation. Consider topping each bowl with toasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness and acidity. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also provide a burst of freshness.
Pair your soup with a light salad or a sandwich for a complete meal. A simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a hearty grilled cheese sandwich can complement the soup perfectly, making it an ideal lunch or dinner option.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This squash soup freezes well. Just make sure to store it in airtight containers.
→ What can I serve with squash soup?
It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
→ Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian and can be made vegan by ensuring the broth is vegetable-based.
→ How long does this soup last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for about 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Squash Soup for Meal Prep
This delicious squash soup is perfect for meal prepping. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it a great option for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Created by: Blair Hudson
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, and ground ginger to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Once the squash is tender, remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g