Introduction
As the leaves turn and a gentle chill fills the air, it’s time to embrace the comforting flavors of fall with a bowl of Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Soup. This velvety soup captures the essence of the season, showcasing the natural sweetness of butternut squash paired harmoniously with the earthy notes of fresh sage. Roasting the squash caramelizes its sugars, enhancing its flavor and adding a beautiful depth to the dish.
Not only is this soup a feast for the senses, but it’s also incredibly nourishing and satisfying—perfect for a cozy evening at home or as an impressive starter for your next gathering. The vibrant orange hue is a delightful reminder of the harvest, and when served in rustic bowls, it sets the mood for a warm and inviting meal.
Join me as we dive into this recipe that’s not just about celebrating the squash but also about savoring the simple joys of autumn! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Soup is sure to become a staple in your fall repertoire. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (approximately 2-3 lbs), peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- 1 cup coconut cream (or heavy cream for a richer flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried sage)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
- Fresh sage leaves for decoration (optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, diced onion, chopped garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, tossing everything until evenly coated.
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- Spread the vegetable mixture out in a single layer on the lined baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is soft and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through the cooking time.
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- After roasting, transfer the vegetable mixture to a large pot and pour in the vegetable or chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
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- Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in the chopped fresh sage (or dried) and combine thoroughly.
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- Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it reaches your preferred texture. If you don’t possess an immersion blender, you can blend the soup in batches using a traditional blender.
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- Incorporate the coconut cream (or heavy cream) and maple syrup (if using). Warm the soup for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring gently.
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- Taste and modify the seasoning if needed. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh sage leaves if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4-6
Key Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer flavor)
- Fresh sage leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup, plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- Croutons or toasted seeds for topping (optional)
These ingredients combine to create a comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for cozy nights or a delightful lunch option!
Baking Process
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Prepare the Butternut Squash: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, peel and seed the butternut squash, then cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes. This will help the squash cook evenly and blend smoothly later.
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Season the Squash: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor if desired.
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Bake the Squash: Spread the seasoned squash cubes out in an even layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure they have enough space to roast properly; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the squash cubes are tender and caramelized at the edges. Halfway through, give them a stir to ensure even cooking.
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Prepare the Aromatics: While the squash is baking, take a bunch of fresh sage leaves and roughly chop them. You can also opt to use dried sage, but fresh will provide a more vibrant flavor. Set the sage aside for later.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they’re translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then, add the chopped sage and continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes to infuse the oil with sage flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the butternut squash is done roasting, carefully add it to the pot with the sautéed onions and sage. Pour in vegetable broth or chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Blend the Soup: After simmering for about 10 minutes, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches, but be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid steam buildup.
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Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or additional sage according to your palate. If the soup is too thick, stir in some more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve: Ladle the roasted butternut squash and sage soup into bowls. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil or top with a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture. Serve warm with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
This roasting and blending process not only brings out the natural sweetness of the butternut squash but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup, making it a cozy and nourishing dish perfect for chilly days!
Serving Suggestions
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Ladle and Garnish: Pour the warm roasted butternut squash and sage soup into rustic bowls. Top each bowl with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a swirl of coconut cream for added richness.
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Toast Toppings: Serve with crispy, toasted sourdough or a whole-grain baguette on the side. Consider rubbing the toasted bread with a clove of garlic and brushing it with olive oil for an extra layer of flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your soup. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a few sage leaves on top of the soup to enhance its aroma and add a pop of color.
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Crunch Factor: For added texture, sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds or chopped toasted walnuts over each bowl. This not only adds a satisfying crunch but also boosts the nutritional value.
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Cheese Crumble: For a savory twist, crumble some feta or goat cheese on top right before serving. The creamy cheese beautifully complements the sweetness of the squash.
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Spice It Up: For those who like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to individual servings.
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Side Salad: Pair your soup with a simple greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A citrusy dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth and richness of the soup.
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Croutons: Homemade croutons are a fun addition. Cube some stale bread, toss it with olive oil, salt, and your favorite herbs, and roast until golden brown.
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Serve with a Smile: Don’t forget to add a slice of lemon or lime on the side. A squeeze of citrus just before eating can brighten up the flavors.
Enjoy your cozy soup bowls as a comforting meal on chilly days, and feel free to customize your toppings based on your taste preferences!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Soup Bowl is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. The combination of the sweet, roasted butternut squash and the earthy notes of sage creates a comforting blend that is both nourishing and delicious. Plus, with its creamy texture and vibrant color, it’s as visually appealing as it is satisfying.
This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also allows for flexibility—feel free to add your favorite spices or toppings to personalize it to your taste. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a starting course for dinner, or even a cozy dinner itself, this soup is sure to impress your family and friends.
So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and dive into the comforting world of homemade soup. Your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy!
