Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm and comforting, this spicy pumpkin squash soup is perfect for chilly days. The blend of spices and creamy texture will leave your taste buds dancing.
This spicy pumpkin squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Perfectly spiced with a kick, it's a great way to enjoy seasonal produce.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A perfect blend of spicy and sweet flavors
- Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
- Easy to make and great for meal prep
The Benefits of Pumpkin and Squash
Pumpkin and butternut squash are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Rich in vitamins A and C, they boost your immune system and promote healthy skin. These vibrant vegetables are also a great source of fiber, helping to keep your digestive system functioning smoothly. Incorporating them into your diet can enhance your overall health while satisfying your taste buds.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, pumpkin and squash offer a unique sweetness that balances perfectly with spices. This makes them ideal for soups, especially when paired with ingredients like ginger and cayenne. The combination creates a harmonious blend of flavors that warms you up on the coldest days.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best features of this spicy pumpkin squash soup is its suitability for meal prep. It can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays. Just reheat and enjoy a comforting bowl of soup whenever you need a quick meal.
Additionally, this soup freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it even months later. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and you’ll have a homemade meal ready to go whenever the craving strikes. This makes it not only easy to prepare but also cost-effective in the long run.
Customization Ideas
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for additional flavor and nutrients. For a protein boost, stir in some cooked beans or lentils during the simmering stage.
If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. On the other hand, if you’re a spice lover, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce before serving. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother experience.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
Add the Pumpkin and Squash
Add the cubed pumpkin and butternut squash to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
Season and Simmer
Stir in the ginger, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
Add Coconut Milk
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade spicy pumpkin squash soup!
Storage Tips
To store your spicy pumpkin squash soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This will help maintain its flavor and texture. In the refrigerator, the soup will stay fresh for about five to seven days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
When freezing, use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label the containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Try serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess and flavor. For a gourmet touch, drizzle some chili oil or balsamic glaze on top before serving.
You can also use the soup as a base for other dishes. Pour it over cooked grains like quinoa or rice for a hearty bowl, or use it as a sauce for roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless, making it a versatile dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pumpkin can be used. Just reduce the cooking time slightly.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it uses coconut milk.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup
Warm and comforting, this spicy pumpkin squash soup is perfect for chilly days. The blend of spices and creamy texture will leave your taste buds dancing.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
Add the cubed pumpkin and butternut squash to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
Stir in the ginger, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer 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.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g