Pin it A velvety, gently spiced soup blending the natural sweetness of butternut squash and ripe pears—perfect for chilly days and festive gatherings.
This soup became a go-to for me after experimenting with pears during autumn. Its comforting texture and gentle warmth always make guests ask for seconds!
Ingredients
- Butternut squash: 1 medium (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- Pears: 2 ripe, peeled, cored, and chopped
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups, gluten-free if needed
- Coconut milk or heavy cream: 1/2 cup
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Ground ginger: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/4 tsp
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Garnish options: Chopped chives or parsley, toasted pumpkin seeds, additional coconut milk or cream for drizzling
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook for 3 minutes until soft.
- Add main produce:
- Add butternut squash and pears. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season:
- Stir in ground ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release flavors.
- Simmer:
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, until squash and pears are tender.
- Blend:
- Remove from heat. Puree soup with immersion blender (or transfer carefully to a blender) until smooth.
- Finish:
- Stir in coconut milk or heavy cream. Adjust seasoning if needed. Warm gently before serving.
- Serve & garnish:
- Ladle into bowls and add chosen garnishes: herbs, pumpkin seeds, a swirl of coconut milk or cream.
Pin it Sharing warm bowls of this soup by the fireplace brings friends and family closer together, especially on festive evenings.
Required Tools
Large pot, chefs knife, cutting board, immersion blender or standard blender, ladle
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts if coconut milk is used, dairy if heavy cream is used. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 210 calories, 7 g total fat, 37 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein
Pin it For a finishing touch, drizzle a little extra coconut milk and sprinkle pumpkin seeds for crunch. Enjoy the soothing blend of flavors every spoonful offers.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute pears with another fruit?
Yes, apples make a great alternative, providing a subtle, crisp sweetness that complements butternut squash.
- → What thickens the soup's texture?
The butternut squash and pears naturally soften and blend to create a smooth, creamy texture when pureed.
- → How can I add richness to the blend?
Stirring in coconut milk or heavy cream enriches the flavor and gives a luxurious mouthfeel.
- → What spices enhance the flavors here?
Ginger and cinnamon provide gentle warmth and a subtle spice that enhances the natural sweetness.
- → Are there garnish suggestions for added texture?
Chopped herbs like chives or parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds add freshness and crunch.
- → Is this blend suitable for special diets?
Yes, using vegetable broth and coconut milk keeps it vegetarian and gluten-free friendly.