Spicy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Warm up your kitchen with this flavorful Spicy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup. This creamy, hearty soup combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash and sweet potatoes with a kick of spices, creating a perfect balance of heat and comfort. Perfect for chilly days, it's nutritious, filling, and easy to make, making it a must-try for soup lovers and healthy eating enthusiasts alike.
This soup is not just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of spices adds depth to the natural sweetness of the squash and sweet potatoes, while the creamy texture makes it irresistible.
The Health Benefits of Butternut Squash and Sweet Potatoes
Butternut squash and sweet potatoes are nutritional powerhouses that provide numerous health benefits. Both are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health. The bright orange hues of these vegetables signal their high beta-carotene content, an antioxidant that plays a key role in protecting against cancer and heart disease. Additionally, their fiber content aids digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Incorporating these ingredients into your diet can also help with weight management. They are low in calories while being high in fiber, which promotes a feeling of fullness. This means you can enjoy a satisfying meal without consuming excessive calories, making this soup a great option for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
Perfect Pairings for Your Soup
This Spicy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. A simple side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup. The freshness of the salad balances the warmth and spice, creating a delightful dining experience.
For a heartier meal, consider serving the soup with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. The combination of creamy soup and crispy bread is both comforting and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner, especially on cold, rainy days.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers or want to meal prep, this soup stores well in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, where it can last for up to five days. The flavors continue to meld over time, making it even more delicious when reheated.
When reheating, simply transfer the soup back into a pot and heat over medium heat until warmed through. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or vegetable broth to adjust the consistency. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can heat unevenly and affect the soup's overall texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
Feel free to substitute with other vegetables or add protein for a heartier meal.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
Add Squash and Sweet Potatoes
Add the cubed butternut squash and sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir for a couple of minutes.
Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Pour in Broth
Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it to a blender in batches.
Add Coconut Milk
If desired, stir in coconut milk for added creaminess and flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of cayenne or herbs if desired.
Enjoy this comforting soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Variations to Try
This soup lends itself to various adaptations, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding lentils or chickpeas for added protein and texture. Both options complement the existing flavors while boosting the nutritional profile of the soup.
If you're looking to enhance the heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne or experiment with different chili powders. For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness, a touch of maple syrup or honey can balance the spices beautifully, offering a unique take on this comforting dish.
Serving Suggestions
Consider garnishing your soup with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of sour cream can add a rich finish that elevates the overall dish. Remember that a simple sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also enhance the flavor considerably.
This soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed as a starter, a main meal, or even a healthy snack. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weekday, this Spicy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup is the perfect solution to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just store it in airtight containers and reheat when you're ready to enjoy it.
→ What can I use instead of coconut milk?
You can substitute with cream or leave it out for a lighter version.
Spicy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup
Warm up your kitchen with this flavorful Spicy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup. This creamy, hearty soup combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash and sweet potatoes with a kick of spices, creating a perfect balance of heat and comfort. Perfect for chilly days, it's nutritious, filling, and easy to make, making it a must-try for soup lovers and healthy eating enthusiasts alike.
Created by: Sabrina Holt
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
Add the cubed butternut squash and sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir for a couple of minutes.
Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it to a blender in batches.
If desired, stir in coconut milk for added creaminess and flavor.
Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of cayenne or herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g