Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Warm up with a bowl of this delicious Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
This Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin and squash with a hint of spice, creating a comforting dish that's perfect for any season.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms you up from the inside out
- A perfect balance of sweetness and spice
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
The Health Benefits of Pumpkin and Squash
Pumpkin and butternut squash are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Both are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, they contain antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body, promoting overall health and wellness.
Moreover, these vegetables are high in fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you feeling full for longer. Incorporating pumpkin and squash into your diet can also support heart health due to their potassium content, which helps regulate blood pressure. This Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy these health benefits in a comforting bowl.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup is an ideal candidate for meal prepping. With minimal effort, you can whip up a large batch that can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for later use. Simply portion the soup into airtight containers, and you’ll have a nutritious, warming meal ready at your fingertips.
When reheating, just add a splash of vegetable broth to restore its creamy texture. This makes it easy to enjoy a homemade soup without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day. Whether for lunch or dinner, this soup is versatile and convenient.
Customize Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the spice level according to your preference. If you like it hotter, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne and add a touch of maple syrup for a hint of sweetness.
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients as well. You can throw in some cooked lentils for added protein, or mix in sautéed greens for an extra nutrient boost. Topping the soup with different garnishes, such as crumbled feta or a swirl of coconut cream, can also elevate the dish.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Pumpkin seeds
Enjoy your soup warm with your favorite bread!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the Pumpkin and Squash
Add the cubed pumpkin and butternut squash to the pot. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the pumpkin and squash are tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and pumpkin seeds.
Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store your Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to freeze it, make sure to use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to stir it halfway through for even heating.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, consider serving it with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream, which can balance out the spices beautifully. A sprinkle of additional pumpkin seeds on top adds a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
If you’re hosting a gathering, serve this soup as a starter in small cups or bowls. It’s a great way to impress guests with a unique and flavorful dish that’s also visually appealing. Don't forget to accompany it with your favorite beverage, whether it's a glass of white wine or a warm chai tea.
Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients used, a typical serving of this Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup is low in calories yet rich in vitamins and minerals. It’s a great source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and can aid in weight management.
Additionally, the spices used in the soup not only enhance flavor but also bring their own health benefits. For example, cumin and coriander are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while cayenne pepper can boost metabolism. This soup is not just comforting and delicious; it's a nutritious option for any meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute canned pumpkin. Use about 2 cups of canned pumpkin for this recipe.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy products.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chili peppers for extra heat.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup
Warm up with a bowl of this delicious Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Pumpkin seeds
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the cubed pumpkin and butternut squash to the pot. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the pumpkin and squash are tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and pumpkin seeds.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g