Squash Soup with Parmesan
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm and comforting, this squash soup with parmesan is a delightful blend of flavors that will warm you from the inside out.
This squash soup with parmesan is a perfect dish for cozy evenings. The creamy texture and rich flavor of the squash, combined with the salty notes of parmesan, create a harmonious blend that makes this soup a favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Rich flavors enhanced by parmesan cheese
- Perfect for chilly days or as a starter for dinner parties
A Comforting Classic
Squash soup is a culinary classic that brings a sense of warmth and comfort to any table. The natural sweetness of butternut squash harmonizes beautifully with savory ingredients, creating a dish that is both soothing and satisfying. This particular recipe elevates that classic flavor with the addition of rich parmesan, which adds depth and complexity. Whether enjoyed on a crisp autumn evening or as a light starter for a special gathering, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
The vibrant orange hue of the soup not only appeals to the eyes but also signals the abundance of nutrients packed within. Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Each bowl is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, representing the essence of home-cooked comfort food.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This squash soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Serve it as a warming starter for elegant dinner parties or as a hearty main dish for family gatherings. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it an excellent pairing with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Additionally, this soup can easily be made in larger batches, allowing you to have comforting leftovers that reheat beautifully, perfect for busy weeknights.
Moreover, the recipe is adaptable to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon for added warmth, or incorporate other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for a unique twist. This adaptability ensures that you can customize the soup to suit your palate, making it a timeless recipe that you'll return to again and again.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Gather all the ingredients before starting to make the cooking process easier.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the chopped butternut squash to the pot and stir for a couple of minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently until warmed through, but do not boil.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
Ingredient Spotlight: Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is the star of this soup, and for good reason. This versatile vegetable is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Its sweet, nutty flavor makes it a perfect base for soups and purees. Rich in vitamins A and C, butternut squash supports immune function and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, its high fiber content aids digestion, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
When selecting butternut squash, look for ones that are heavy for their size, with a smooth, matte skin. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes. Once peeled and chopped, it can be roasted, steamed, or simmered, making it a great addition to a variety of dishes beyond just soups.
The Role of Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is more than just a garnish; it plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of the soup. Known for its sharp, nutty taste, parmesan adds depth to the creamy base, creating a well-rounded dish. This cheese is also packed with protein and calcium, making it a nutritious addition that complements the health benefits of butternut squash.
When incorporating parmesan into your soup, consider using freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process, so opt for a block of cheese that you can grate just before adding it to your soup. This small detail can make a significant difference in the richness of your dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can use any type of squash you prefer, such as acorn or pumpkin.
→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Squash Soup with Parmesan
Warm and comforting, this squash soup with parmesan is a delightful blend of flavors that will warm you from the inside out.
Created by: Diana Brooks
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Add the chopped butternut squash to the pot and stir for a couple of minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently until warmed through, but do not boil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 6g