Squash Soup Slow Cooker
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy and flavorful squash soup is perfect for chilly days, made effortlessly in a slow cooker.
This squash soup is a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. It's made with simple ingredients and is perfect for meal prep!
Why You'll Love This Squash Soup
- Rich and creamy texture that satisfies the soul
- Packed with nutrients and flavor from fresh squash
- Effortless preparation with a slow cooker
A Comforting Bowl of Goodness
As the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of squash soup to lift your spirits. This creamy squash soup is not only delicious but also an incredibly comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Its rich texture and vibrant flavor make it a perfect companion for brisk evenings spent indoors.
Each spoonful of this soup is filled with the natural sweetness of butternut squash, enhanced by aromatic spices like ginger and cinnamon. The combination of these ingredients creates a symphony of flavor that is both soothing and satisfying. It's a dish that feels indulgent yet healthy, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Health Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports eye health and boosts the immune system. This vibrant vegetable is also a good source of fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer. Adding squash to your diet can help you maintain a healthy weight while enjoying a flavorful meal.
Incorporating a variety of vegetables into your meals is essential for overall health, and this squash soup does just that. With its combination of wholesome ingredients, it's a wonderful way to ensure you're getting the vitamins and minerals your body needs, especially during the colder months when fresh produce might be limited.
Effortless Cooking with a Slow Cooker
One of the best features of this squash soup recipe is its simplicity. Utilizing a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing your ingredients to meld together beautifully over time. This hands-off approach is perfect for busy weekdays or when you want to prepare a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Just prep your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let the magic happen. While you go about your day, the slow cooker transforms your fresh ingredients into a velvety, mouthwatering soup. This method not only enhances the flavors but also makes cleanup a breeze, as you'll only have one pot to wash afterward.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Combine in Slow Cooker
Add the cubed squash, chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and mix until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of squash soup!
Tips for Perfect Squash Soup
To ensure the best flavor, choose ripe butternut squash that feels heavy for its size with a smooth, blemish-free skin. Freshness is key to achieving that rich taste that characterizes this soup. Additionally, feel free to experiment with spices; a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne can add a unique twist to the classic recipe.
If you prefer a bit of texture in your soup, consider reserving some of the cooked squash cubes before blending. You can stir them back into the pureed soup after adding the coconut milk for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings. A drizzle of extra coconut milk adds a luxurious touch, while a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds offers a delightful crunch. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the dish, adding a pop of color and flavor.
For a heartier meal, consider serving the soup alongside crusty bread or a simple salad. Grilled cheese sandwiches or a light quiche would also make excellent companions, creating a nourishing and satisfying dining experience.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This squash soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just be sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand as it freezes. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick and easy meal that tastes just as delicious as the first time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan since it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a green salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Squash Soup Slow Cooker
This creamy and flavorful squash soup is perfect for chilly days, made effortlessly in a slow cooker.
Created by: Tessa Wright
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk
How-To Steps
Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Add the cubed squash, chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the squash is tender.
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk and mix until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g