It's officially autumn!
I hate to say this but I think this might be my favorite part of the year (that and spring). Being so spoiled living in San Diego for 8 years with perfect weather year-round then moving to the east-coast, then mid-west has been quite a change!! This time of the year it's starting to cool down, not be so freaking hot and muggy .....yuck.... hello bad hair day everyday! or freezing cold your bones shiver.
Anyways, I love soup and this is the perfect time of year for it!! Don't you agree??
I wanted to make a butternut squash soup like I had at Panera the other day. But I wanted to make it healthy, not with all the cream and unneeded calories.... we don't need to pack on extra insulation just because the weather is cooling off.... after all summer is again just around the corner!
So, I googled some recipes. 99% of them called for HEAVY CREAM and BUTTER....hummm.... I think not!! So, I just went on a limb and made my own with what I had on hand.
Here goes..... Oh and by the way it turned out A-MAZ-ING!!
(This will make 1 huge bowl or if you feel like sharing 2 bowls.)
(This will make 1 huge bowl or if you feel like sharing 2 bowls.)
 |
| Start with a med sized butternut squash |
 |
| Cut off skin, cut in half, scoop out insides. (reminds me pumpkins!) |
 |
| Cut into equal chunks. |
 |
| My boys had to be in the kitchen waiting for something to fall. They are so so cute... I love them!! |
 |
| In a warm pot add 1 tablespoon oil. Add cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla. I just started sprinkling until I thought it looked good...haha.. but I guess if you want to be perfect then use 1 teaspoon each. Let all the spices "come alive"... |
 |
| Next, add 3 cups water and a cube of bouillon. I used vegetable. Bring to a boil. |
 |
| Add squash cubes, cover, simmer for 20-25 min until tender. (The kitchen will smell so yummy!) |
 |
| Add to blender (work with small batches if you have a smaller blender.) |
 |
| Puree and watch the magic happen!! When finished add pepper to taste, and any more spices if you feel the need. I added just a touch of agave nectar to add some slight sweetness. (Blend...just a few sec more) |
 |
| All done!!! ENJOY!!! |
I hope you try this, and put your-own personal spin on it. Comment below when you make some ;-)
----
xo,
CLL
----
