Roasted Acorn Squash Soup Recipe
Recipe posted in: Flex Meals & Snacks, Lunches & Dinners, Main Courses, SidesThere’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to embrace the chill of fall, and this roasted acorn squash soup recipe is the perfect way to savor the season. With its velvety texture and rich, savory-sweet flavor, this dish transforms humble ingredients into a comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. If you’ve been wondering, “how do you make acorn squash soup?”, this recipe provides a step-by-step guide that’s as simple as it is delicious.
This recipe for acorn squash soup highlights the nutty sweetness of roasted acorn squash paired with the deep flavors of garlic, onion, and warming spices like cumin, paprika and ginger. It’s not just a soup; it’s a bowl of autumn you can enjoy for lunch, dinner or even as a starter for holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Acorn Squash Soup
- Acorn squash shines in autumn, making this recipe a perfect fit for fall and winter.
- Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, acorn squash is a healthy superstar in soup form.
- Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free or love a little extra spice, this soup can be customized to your taste.
- Make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and enjoy a ready-to-heat meal whenever you need it.
- It fits into your Nutrisystem meal plan, counting as half of a SmartCarb, one PowerFuel, one Extra and one Vegetable.
How to Make Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
This acorn squash soup recipe begins with roasting your vegetables. By roasting the squash, carrots, tomatoes, onion and garlic, you develop a depth of flavor that elevates this dish. Here’s a quick breakdown of the process:
- Prep the Vegetables: Halve the acorn squash and scoop out the seeds. Trim the garlic bulb and arrange all the veggies on a baking sheet. A drizzle of olive oil is all you need to bring out their natural flavors.
- Roast to Perfection: Roasting at 400 degrees caramelizes the vegetables, making them tender and slightly sweet.
- Blend It Up: Once the veggies are soft, scoop the flesh out of the squash and blend it with the roasted vegetables, vegetable broth, lite coconut milk and spices.
- Garnish and Serve: Pour the smooth, creamy soup into bowls and top with crunchy pumpkin seeds for texture.
Serving Suggestions
This roasted acorn squash soup is delightful on its own, but you can take it up a notch with a few pairing ideas:
- Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of whole-grain bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for dipping.
- Pair with a Salad: A simple arugula or kale salad balances the creaminess of the soup with a fresh crunch.
- Top with Yogurt or Cream: A dollop of Greek yogurt or a swirl of coconut cream can add richness and visual appeal.
Ways to Customize Your Acorn Squash Soup
This acorn squash soup recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your preferences:
- For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Fresh thyme or sage can add a touch of earthy flavor.
- Stir in cooked lentils or top with crispy chickpeas for added protein.
- Add a handful of cooked quinoa or wild rice for a more filling meal.
- Drizzle in a bit of maple syrup or honey for a subtle sweetness that complements the squash.
- Try garnishing with crispy sage leaves, crumbled feta cheese, or toasted nuts like pecans or almonds for unique textures.
- Replace the lite coconut milk with another non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, cashew cream or oat milk for a different creamy element.
- Blend in fruit like a roasted apple or pear to enhance the soup’s natural sweetness.
- Substitute the acorn squash with butternut or kabocha squash for a slightly different flavor.
- Add a touch of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a bold flavor.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice can brighten up the dish.
The Health Benefits of Acorn Squash Soup
Each serving of this roasted acorn squash soup recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients. Here’s what makes it a healthy choice:
- Acorn Squash: Packed with vitamins A and C, which supports immune health and glowing skin. Its fiber content aids digestion and keeps you feeling full.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which enhances vision and provide antioxidant protection.
- Garlic and Onion: These alliums not only add flavor but also contribute to heart health and immune function.
- Coconut Milk: The lite version used here adds creaminess without too many extra calories, providing a dose of healthy fats.
- Pumpkin Seeds: As a garnish, they add crunch along with magnesium, zinc and protein.
A Cozy, Flavorful Dish for Fall
Fall is synonymous with cozy meals, and nothing beats the aroma of roasted vegetables wafting through your kitchen. This recipe for acorn squash soup is a celebration of autumn’s bounty, featuring seasonal produce that’s at its peak flavor and nutritional value. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a meal prep session or a holiday gathering, this soup is sure to impress.
So, the next time you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish, remember this acorn squash soup recipe. With its rich flavors, ease of preparation and health benefits, it’s a must-try for soup lovers everywhere. Serve it with your favorite sides, customize it to your taste, and enjoy a delicious, nourishing meal that feels like fall in every bite.
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 212
On Nutrisystem, Count As: ½ SmartCarb, 1 PowerFuel, 1 Extra and 1 Vegetable
Ingredients:
- 1 garlic bulb
- 1 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, peeled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth, low sodium
- ½ cup lite coconut milk
- 1 tsp. ginger
- ½ tsp. cumin
- ½ tsp. paprika
- ½ tsp. dried rosemary
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 Tbsp. pumpkin seeds
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Trim the top ¼ inch off the top of the garlic bulb.
- Place the squash, onion, carrots, garlic and tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Roast in the oven for 60-70 minutes, until squash is soft.
- Scoop the acorn squash flesh out of the skin and place it into a blender with the other vegetables. Add broth, coconut milk and spices. Blend until smooth.
- Pour into bowls and garnish with pumpkin seeds before serving.