Squash Soup with Leeks
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy and comforting squash soup with leeks is the perfect dish for chilly days. The sweet notes of squash blend beautifully with the mild onion flavor of leeks, creating a warm and inviting bowl of goodness.
This squash soup with leeks is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of autumn flavors. Made with fresh ingredients, it’s a satisfying way to warm up your evenings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture with a touch of sweetness from the squash
- Nutritious and comforting for any season
- Easy to make, perfect for meal prepping
A Perfect Dish for Chilly Days
When the temperature drops, there's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup. This squash soup with leeks provides the perfect solution for those chilly evenings. The rich, creamy texture envelops you like a warm blanket, while the sweet flavor of butternut squash dances on your palate, creating a delightful experience with every spoonful.
What sets this soup apart is its ability to warm not just your body, but also your soul. The mild, oniony flavor of leeks complements the natural sweetness of the squash, resulting in a harmonious blend that is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you're enjoying it as a light lunch or as a hearty dinner alongside crusty bread, this soup never disappoints.
Nutritional Benefits of Squash and Leeks
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining good vision and a healthy immune system. Additionally, squash is a great source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel fuller for longer.
Leeks, on the other hand, add a unique flavor profile while contributing their own health benefits. They are low in calories but high in antioxidants and vitamins, making them a fantastic addition to your diet. Together, these ingredients create a soup that's not only comforting but also incredibly nourishing, making it a great choice for any season.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the great advantages of this squash soup with leeks is its ease of preparation. The recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for novice cooks or anyone looking to whip up something quick and delicious. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty soup ready to enjoy.
Moreover, this soup is perfect for meal prepping. It keeps well in the refrigerator for several days and can easily be frozen for future use. Simply portion it out in containers, and you have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go whenever you need a quick and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
- 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start making your soup!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delightful squash soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced leeks, cooking until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
Add Cream and Season
Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently until warmed through.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme and enjoy your delicious squash soup!
Now that your soup is ready, it’s perfect for serving with crusty bread or a side salad!
Storage Tips
To store your leftover squash soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you plan to freeze it, ensure the soup is cooled, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. This will help maintain its flavor and texture when reheated.
When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream if the soup has thickened. This will help restore its creamy consistency and enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
While this soup is delightful on its own, you can elevate it further with some creative serving suggestions. Try adding a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of crème fraîche for an extra layer of flavor and texture. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can also add a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the squash.
Pair your soup with a simple salad or a slice of artisan bread for a complete meal. A side of roasted vegetables can also complement the flavors beautifully, making it a well-rounded dinner option that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or pumpkin for a different flavor.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.
Squash Soup with Leeks
This creamy and comforting squash soup with leeks is the perfect dish for chilly days. The sweet notes of squash blend beautifully with the mild onion flavor of leeks, creating a warm and inviting bowl of goodness.
Created by: Olivia Hayes
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
- 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced leeks, cooking until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently until warmed through.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme and enjoy your delicious squash soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g