Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced small
- 2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
- 1 large Granny Smith apple
- 3-4 pounds butternut squash (about 1 large squash), peeled, seeds removed, and diced
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2½ cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth if vegetarian is not required)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or coconut cream for dairy-free option
- Ground pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Toasted pumpkin seeds
- Extra yogurt or coconut cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Add the olive or avocado oil to a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, diced carrots, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir occasionally and cook until the vegetables soften and edges turn lightly browned, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Fruit, Squash and Herbs: Stir in the chopped apple, diced butternut squash, and the leaves from the fresh thyme sprigs (or dried thyme if using). Add the remaining teaspoon of salt.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook until the squash is very soft, about 20 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Turn off the heat and use an immersion blender or blend the soup in batches until smooth. Return to pot if blended in batches.
- Incorporate Creaminess: Stir in the Greek yogurt or coconut cream until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper as needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the soup warm, topped with optional toasted pumpkin seeds and extra yogurt or coconut cream if desired.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Notes
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian; substitute chicken broth if not vegetarian.
- Use coconut cream instead of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free version.
- Optional garnishes like toasted pumpkin seeds add texture and flavor.
- Can be made ahead; flavors improve after resting overnight.
- For a thinner consistency, add more broth as needed.
- Can also be prepared using a slow cooker or Instant Pot; adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free