Squash Soup with Fennel
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Delight in a comforting bowl of squash soup with a hint of fennel, perfect for chilly evenings.
This squash soup with fennel is a warm, hearty dish that brings together the natural sweetness of squash with the aromatic flavor of fennel. It's perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for a gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture with a hint of sweetness from the squash
- Fragrant fennel adds a unique flavor twist
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
The Comfort of Squash Soup
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of squash soup to embrace the season. This delightful dish not only warms the soul but also nourishes the body with its wholesome ingredients. Butternut squash, known for its natural sweetness, serves as the star of this recipe, providing a creamy texture that makes each spoonful a comforting experience.
Additionally, the inclusion of fennel adds a unique aromatic flavor that elevates the soup beyond the ordinary. Fennel's subtle anise notes complement the sweetness of the squash, creating a harmonious balance that intrigues the palate. This is a dish that invites you to slow down and savor each bite, making it perfect for cozy evenings spent at home.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It boasts a rich supply of vitamins A and C, both of which play crucial roles in maintaining healthy skin and vision. Furthermore, the high fiber content promotes digestive health, making this soup a nutritious option for those seeking a balanced meal.
Fennel, on the other hand, is known for its digestive benefits and may help alleviate bloating and gas. It's also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress. Together, these ingredients create a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also supports your overall well-being.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this squash soup with fennel is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Its creamy texture and comforting flavors make it an excellent starter for a festive meal or a fulfilling main course when paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Moreover, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners. With minimal hands-on time and a short cooking duration, you can have a delicious and healthy meal ready in no time, allowing you to spend more quality time with family and friends.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fennel bulb, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your squash soup:
Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fennel and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the squash and broth
Add the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Stir in coconut milk
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Serve and garnish
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your delicious homemade squash soup with fennel!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To ensure the flavors remain vibrant, cool the soup to room temperature before refrigerating. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the soup in individual portions. This way, you can easily reheat a bowl whenever you're in need of a comforting meal.
When reheating, you can do so on the stovetop or in the microwave. If using the stovetop, gently warm the soup over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you're in a hurry, the microwave works just fine; just remember to stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the flavors of your squash soup, consider serving it with a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese. These toppings add a creamy tang that complements the soup's sweetness beautifully. For an extra crunch, toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons can provide a delightful texture contrast.
Pair your soup with a light salad or a slice of hearty bread for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the soup, making for a satisfying dining experience.
Variations to Explore
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to explore variations to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during the cooking process. If you're a fan of herbs, consider incorporating thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that pairs well with the squash.
You can also experiment with different types of squash, such as acorn or kabocha, to create unique flavor profiles. Each variety offers its own distinct sweetness and texture, allowing you to personalize your soup to your liking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Squash Soup with Fennel
Delight in a comforting bowl of squash soup with a hint of fennel, perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Quinn Harper
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fennel bulb, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fennel and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g