Name: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped; 1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried); 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Roasted pumpkin seeds and a swirl of cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Roast the squash

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized, turning once halfway through.
Sauté the aromatics

While squash is roasting, heat remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and apple, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, nutmeg, and cinnamon, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combine and simmer

Add roasted squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Blend the soup

Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until completely smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a stand blender and purée, then return to the pot.
Finish with cream

Stir in heavy cream and maple syrup. Heat gently over low heat, being careful not to boil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and garnish

Ladle soup into warmed bowls. If desired, garnish each serving with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds, and a few fresh thyme leaves. Serve immediately with crusty bread on the side.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients

Instructions

Nutritional Information