Creamy Squash Soup with Sage
Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen Favorites
This creamy squash soup with sage is a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any season. It's rich, comforting, and sure to warm you up.
This creamy squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The sage adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Velvety texture that warms the soul
- Savory notes of sage elevate the flavors
- Nutritious and satisfying, perfect for any meal
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's a great source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, the fiber content in squash aids digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. Incorporating squash into your diet can contribute to overall health and wellness.
This versatile vegetable can be used in a variety of dishes, but in this creamy soup, it truly shines. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash balances beautifully with the earthy flavors of sage, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or as a light lunch, this soup is a wholesome choice.
Sage: The Perfect Herb
Sage is a wonderful herb that adds a distinct flavor to many dishes, and in this soup, it offers a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the squash. Beyond its culinary uses, sage is known for its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to aid digestion and boost cognitive function.
When you chop fresh sage and add it to the soup, its aromatic oils are released, creating an inviting fragrance that enhances the overall experience of the dish. The combination of sage and squash not only elevates the flavor profile but also creates a dish that is both nourishing and satisfying.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
This creamy squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or freshly baked rolls. The combination of warm soup and bread is comforting and filling, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, serve the soup alongside a crisp salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, consider pairing it with a sandwich for a satisfying lunch that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
Add Cream and Sage
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional sage if desired.
Enjoy your creamy squash soup with a side of crusty bread!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try roasting the squash before adding it to the soup.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover creamy squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If the soup thickens during storage, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
For longer storage, this soup can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for a quick, comforting meal.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this creamy squash soup to suit your tastes. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño during the sautéing step. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try incorporating other herbs such as thyme or rosemary, which also pair well with squash.
For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream blend. You can also replace the vegetable broth with a homemade or store-bought vegan broth to keep it plant-based. These substitutions will maintain the creamy texture while accommodating various dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth.
→ How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the cream before freezing.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
It pairs well with a fresh salad or some crusty bread.
Creamy Squash Soup with Sage
This creamy squash soup with sage is a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any season. It's rich, comforting, and sure to warm you up.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Fresh Kitchen Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with additional sage if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try roasting the squash before adding it to the soup.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g