Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A warm and comforting roasted acorn squash soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
This roasted acorn squash soup is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for fall. The soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with nutrients.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms you up from the inside out
- Sweet and savory flavor profile with a hint of spice
- Simple ingredients that create a gourmet experience
The Benefits of Roasting Acorn Squash
Roasting acorn squash enhances its natural sweetness and brings out a rich, caramelized flavor that is simply irresistible. The heat helps to break down the fibers, resulting in a tender texture that blends beautifully into soups. This method not only elevates the taste but also retains essential nutrients, making it a healthy option for any meal. The golden color that develops during roasting also adds visual appeal to your dishes, making them more inviting.
Moreover, roasting acorn squash is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. Just a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and pepper can transform this humble vegetable into a gourmet delight. This technique is versatile, allowing you to enjoy acorn squash in various dishes, from salads to main courses, but in soup form, it truly shines.
Perfect Pairings
This roasted acorn squash soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a warm baguette, making it an excellent choice for a cozy dinner. The creamy soup can also be complemented with a side salad, providing a refreshing contrast to its rich texture. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette works beautifully, cutting through the creaminess of the soup and adding a bright flavor.
For a heartier meal, consider serving the soup alongside grilled cheese sandwiches. The gooey, melted cheese and crispy bread offer a delightful contrast to the smooth soup, creating an enjoyable culinary experience. Additionally, a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons on top of the soup adds a lovely crunch, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk
Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the acorn squash cut-side up on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is roasted, scoop the flesh into the pot with the onions and garlic. Add the vegetable broth, cumin, cinnamon, and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 5 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Enjoy your delicious roasted acorn squash soup!
Nutritional Highlights
Acorn squash is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system. The high fiber content in acorn squash aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
Additionally, the inclusion of coconut milk in this soup adds a dose of healthy fats, which can help improve heart health and provide sustained energy. The spices, such as cumin and cinnamon, not only enhance the flavor but also offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Variations to Try
While this roasted acorn squash soup is delightful as is, there are numerous variations you can try to suit your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of sriracha. If you're a fan of herbs, fresh thyme or sage can add a wonderful earthiness and depth to the flavor profile.
For a more robust soup, you could incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. These can be roasted alongside the acorn squash for an extra layer of sweetness. Alternatively, experiment with different types of milk, such as almond or cashew milk, to create a unique flavor twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make this soup up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What can I use instead of coconut milk?
You can substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or almond milk, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
A warm and comforting roasted acorn squash soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Harriet Mason
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the acorn squash cut-side up on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Once the squash is roasted, scoop the flesh into the pot with the onions and garlic. Add the vegetable broth, cumin, cinnamon, and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 5 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g