Name: Protein-Packed Butternut Squash Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 1 cup full-fat small-curd cottage cheese; 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 head garlic, halved; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 3 cups vegetable broth; Olive oil; Kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper to taste; Fresh thyme sprigs; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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📑 Table of Contents ▶

The Essentials of Protein-Packed Butternut Squash Soup
Fundamentals
Preparation/Setup
Mastering the Technique
Technique
Tips and Tricks
Perfecting the Results
Perfecting Results
Troubleshooting/Variations
Serving and Presentation
Serving and Presentation
Pairings and Storage
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Protein-Packed Butternut Squash Soup

Crafting a warm, cozy bowl of butternut squash soup always reminds me of the comforting meals shared during chilly evenings with family. As a kid, I watched my grandmother turn simple seasonal ingredients into delicious, hearty meals. The scent of roasted squash filling the kitchen brought everyone together, creating an ambiance of love and joy. With a rich, creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, this protein-packed butternut squash soup encapsulates those cherished memories.

The heart of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role, creating layers of flavor. Sourcing seasonal vegetables, like butternut squash, fills the dish with warmth and nutrition. Combining the squash with protein-rich cottage cheese and white beans not only enhances the flavor but also makes it a wholesome meal.

As the seasons shift, this soup transforms into a staple in many homes, nourishing both body and spirit. It resonates with those who value homemade meals and is perfect for sharing with loved ones. Each spoonful is a reminder that cooking can create beautiful connections and hearty memories.

Let’s dive into this comforting recipe, turning fresh ingredients into something extraordinary.

The Essentials of Protein-Packed Butternut Squash Soup

Fundamentals

To make this soup, gather the essential ingredients: full-fat small-curd cottage cheese, butternut squash (or a mix of squash, carrots, and sweet potatoes), garlic, white beans, maple syrup, and vegetable broth. Each ingredient brings its own flavor and texture, creating a rich and satisfying soup.

Select a ripe butternut squash, which offers a natural sweetness and creaminess when roasted. Cottage cheese adds a protein boost, making this dish not only comforting but nourishing. Pair these with earthy garlic and fragrant thyme for a depth of flavor.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Prepare the squash by peeling, seeding, and cutting it into 1-inch cubes. The uniform size ensures even roasting, allowing the squash to caramelize beautifully. Place the cubes in a large Dutch oven, drizzle with olive oil, and season with kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper.

Nestle the garlic half into the center of the squash, ensuring it makes contact with the bottom of the pot. Scatter the fresh thyme sprigs on top and finish with a bit more olive oil. Roasting the squash covered for 45 to 55 minutes allows the vegetables to become tender and flavorful.

Mastering the Technique

Technique

Once the squash is nicely roasted, remove the pot from the oven and discard the thyme sprigs. Let it cool slightly before squeezing the roasted garlic cloves directly into the pot. This adds a sweet, mellow flavor to the soup.

At this point, you can choose between an immersion blender or a stand blender for creating a smooth consistency. If using an immersion blender, simply add the white beans, cottage cheese, maple syrup, nutmeg, and cayenne to the pot along with the roasted squash and garlic. Pour in three cups of vegetable broth, then blend until smooth.

If using a stand blender, transfer everything from the pot into the blender and proceed in the same manner. Blend until desired creaminess, adjusting the broth as necessary to reach the perfect texture.

Tips and Tricks

To elevate this soup, consider adding a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick or more maple syrup for sweetness if desired. Tasting as you go ensures balance. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to cater to your palate.

Stir in fresh thyme leaves just before serving to add a burst of freshness to each bowl. For an even richer flavor, let the soup simmer over medium-low heat for a few minutes after blending, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Perfecting the Results

Perfecting Results

After blending, return the Dutch oven to medium-low heat to warm the soup gently. This step helps meld the flavors while keeping the soup creamy and delicious. Taste for seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper as needed.

If you’d like a thicker consistency, allow the soup to simmer longer without a lid. For a thinner version, simply add more vegetable broth until you achieve your desired creaminess.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If the soup turns out too thick, adding more broth is an easy fix. A touch of lemon juice can brighten the flavors if you find it too rich. Variations can include adding different seasonal vegetables for varying textures and tastes. Carrots and sweet potatoes provide sweetness, while herbs like sage or rosemary can be experimented with based on your preference.

Serving and Presentation

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with toasted pepitas for added crunch, fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color, and a drizzle of olive oil for richness. The bright presentation alongside the creamy texture invites everyone to dig in immediately.

This protein-packed butternut squash soup serves beautifully with crusty bread, perfect for dipping. The rustle of the bread, combined with the warm soup, evokes the essence of home cooking at its finest.

Pairings and Storage

For sides, consider fresh salads or roasted vegetables that complement the soup’s sweetness. As for storage, this soup chills wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days. To freeze, pour into airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat on the stovetop, adding broth if necessary to restore its creamy goodness. Embrace the warmth and connection this dish brings, just as it did in my grandma’s kitchen.