This creamy butternut squash soup is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, thanks to the tahini and lemon. It’s cozy and warm, making it just right for chilly days!
Making this soup is a breeze! I love how it fills the kitchen with a yummy smell. Pair it with some crusty bread for a meal that feels like a big hug! 🥣❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the soup! Its naturally sweet and nutty flavor adds depth. If butternut squash isn’t available, you can use acorn squash or sweet potatoes as a substitute, both of which bring a similar sweetness.
Tahini: Tahini gives this soup a creamy texture and a unique flavor. If you’re allergic to sesame or don’t have tahini, you can substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different but pleasant twist.
Vegetable Broth: I love using homemade vegetable broth for richer flavor, but store-bought works great too. For a low-sodium option, look for low-sodium vegetable broth, or you can simply use water and season it yourself as it cooks.
Chives: These add a beautiful freshness at the end. If you don’t have chives, green onions or parsley can be a nice alternative—both will add a vibrant pop!
How Can I Make Sure My Soup Is Smooth and Creamy?
Achieving a perfectly smooth soup is key for this recipe. The method of blending is important. Either an immersion blender or a regular blender works, but each demands attention to avoid splashes or lumps.
- For immersion blenders, simply blend directly in the pot. Move the blender around to ensure even blending.
- If using a regular blender, be sure to let the soup cool slightly, and blend in small batches to avoid pressure build-up. Fill the blender no more than halfway.
- After blending, return the soup to the pot and reheat as necessary.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy a luscious and creamy butternut squash soup every time!
Butternut Squash Soup With Tahini & Lemon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup tahini
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Red pepper flakes
- Chopped chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious butternut squash soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll spend about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté it until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells lovely and fragrant.
2. Cook the Butternut Squash:
Now, add the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the squash is tender, which will take about 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Blend the Soup:
When the squash is nice and soft, it’s time to make the soup smooth! If you have an immersion blender, simply blend the soup right in the pot until it’s creamy. If you don’t, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and then pour it back into the pot.
4. Add Tahini and Lemon:
Stir in the tahini and lemon juice to give the soup a creamy texture and zesty flavor. Taste it and season with salt and pepper until it’s just right. Heat it through for a few more minutes so everything is warm and cozy.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the soup warm in bowls and sprinkle some red pepper flakes and chopped chives on top for added flavor and color. Enjoy your delicious butternut squash soup with a side of crusty bread!
Can I Substitute Another Type of Squash?
Yes! If you can’t find butternut squash, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, so you may want to adjust the seasoning accordingly. Make sure to peel and seed them just like you would with butternut squash.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep. You can make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge in an airtight container. Just reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it out when reheating.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover butternut squash soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Other Ingredients for Extra Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to add other ingredients like carrots, ginger, or spices such as cumin or coriander for additional flavor. You can also top it with croutons, nuts, or seeds for added texture and crunch!
