Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy and comforting roasted acorn squash soup is the perfect dish for chilly days. Its rich flavor and velvety texture make it a delightful addition to your fall and winter meals.
This roasted acorn squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The sweetness of the squash combined with warm spices creates a cozy dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously sweet and savory flavor
- Creamy texture that warms you up
- Healthy and packed with vitamins
- Perfect for a cozy night in
The Perfect Fall Comfort Food
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table. This roasted acorn squash soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms you from the inside out. With its delightful blend of sweet and savory, it's the ideal dish for cozy evenings spent at home.
The natural sweetness of acorn squash shines through when roasted, complemented perfectly by aromatic spices. Each spoonful offers a rich and velvety texture that envelops you in warmth, making it a go-to recipe for fall and winter gatherings. Plus, it's versatile enough to serve as an elegant starter for a special occasion or a hearty main for a casual night in.
Nutritional Benefits of Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is not just a delicious ingredient; it's also packed with nutrients that contribute to a healthy diet. Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports your immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, this winter squash is a fantastic source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.
Including acorn squash in your meals can also contribute to heart health. Its potassium content helps regulate blood pressure, while antioxidants present in the skin and flesh combat oxidative stress. By making this soup, you’re not only indulging in a comforting dish but also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
Whether you're looking to boost your health or simply enjoy a tasty meal, this roasted acorn squash soup is a win-win. It's a delightful way to incorporate seasonal produce into your diet while savoring the flavors of autumn.
Serving Suggestions
While this roasted acorn squash soup is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it alongside a crusty artisan bread or a simple green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. The contrast of textures and flavors enhances the overall meal, making it more satisfying.
For a touch of elegance, garnish your soup with toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of balsamic reduction. Fresh herbs like thyme or sage can also add a pop of color and flavor, taking your presentation to the next level. These small additions can make your dish not just a meal but a culinary experience.
If you're preparing this soup for a gathering, consider pairing it with a light wine, such as a Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc, which can complement the sweetness of the squash beautifully. This thoughtful pairing can impress your guests and make your meal memorable.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Enjoy the flavors of fall with this comforting soup!
Instructions
Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the acorn squash halves with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
Once the squash is roasted, scoop out the flesh and add it to the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth, ginger, and cinnamon, stirring to combine.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream and heat until warm.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread!
Storage Tips
This roasted acorn squash soup can be made in advance, making it a convenient option for meal prep. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish throughout the week.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Variations to Try
While the classic roasted acorn squash soup is delightful, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce while blending. This can create a delightful contrast to the soup's natural sweetness.
You might also consider incorporating other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added depth of flavor and nutrition. Roasting these alongside the squash will infuse the soup with even more complexity and richness. Each variation brings a new twist to a beloved classic, ensuring you never tire of this comforting dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut milk for a dairy-free option or omit it altogether for a lighter soup.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, if you omit the heavy cream and ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.
Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
This creamy and comforting roasted acorn squash soup is the perfect dish for chilly days. Its rich flavor and velvety texture make it a delightful addition to your fall and winter meals.
Created by: Veronica Miles
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the acorn squash halves with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
Once the squash is roasted, scoop out the flesh and add it to the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth, ginger, and cinnamon, stirring to combine.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream and heat until warm.
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g