Squash Soup with Fennel
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup with fennel is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Squash soup with fennel is a comforting dish that brings together the natural sweetness of squash and the subtle anise flavor of fennel. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for a festive meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms the soul
- Unique flavor combination of squash and fennel
- Healthy and comforting, perfect for fall
The Health Benefits of Squash and Fennel
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports immune function and promotes healthy skin. The high fiber content aids digestion, making it a great choice for a hearty soup during the fall season.
Fennel, with its distinctive anise-like flavor, brings a unique twist to this squash soup. It is known for its digestive benefits and can help reduce bloating. Additionally, fennel is a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This squash soup with fennel is incredibly versatile. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for a comforting meal for yourself, this soup fits the bill. Its creamy texture and rich flavor profile make it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for both casual lunches and elegant dinners.
You can easily adapt this recipe for various occasions. Serve it as a starter before a main course, or enjoy it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Additionally, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Tips for the Best Soup
For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the soup. This caramelizes the natural sugars and enhances the sweetness of the squash. Simply toss the diced squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender.
Don't hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of thyme can elevate the flavor profile even further. Fresh herbs for garnish not only add a pop of color but also enhance the overall taste, making your soup visually appealing and delicious.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious squash soup with fennel:
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fennel bulb, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious squash soup with fennel:
Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and fennel, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add squash and broth
Stir in the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the soup
Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches.
Finish with coconut milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Heat through before serving.
Once your soup is blended and heated, serve it warm with fresh herbs if desired!
Storing and Reheating
Once prepared, this squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to avoid condensation, which can affect the texture.
Reheating is simple—just warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal, or with a slice of warm artisan bread to soak up the creamy goodness.
For an added crunch, top your soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also provide an interesting contrast to the creamy texture, enhancing the dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as substitutes for butternut squash.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Squash Soup with Fennel
This creamy squash soup with fennel is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fennel bulb, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and fennel, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Heat through before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g