Butternut Squash Pear Soup Recipe

When the weather starts to cool down and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to soothe both your body and soul. Enter Butternut Squash Pear Soup-a perfect fall-inspired recipe that combines the rich, velvety texture of roasted butternut squash with the subtle sweetness of pears. It’s an exciting twist on traditional squash soup, with a delicate balance of savory and sweet flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

This recipe isn’t just delicious-it’s incredibly easy to make, and its vibrant orange hue will brighten up any dinner table. Whether you’re preparing a cozy meal for yourself or serving guests at a dinner party, this soup will impress. It’s also a wonderful way to sneak in a healthy serving of vegetables, especially for picky eaters or those looking to eat more plant-based dishes.

So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious!

Butternut Squash Pear Soup Recipe

A bowl of butternut squash pear soup is like a cozy hug in a dish. The sweetness from the pears complements the earthiness of the squash, and the velvety smooth texture makes every spoonful feel like pure comfort. It’s a hearty and fulfilling dish, with a hint of spice from the seasonings. Here’s how you can recreate this fall favorite in your kitchen:

Ingredients Needed

• 1 medium butternut squash (peeled, cubed)
• 2 ripe pears (peeled, cored, and chopped)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting)
• 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
• 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer texture)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat The Oven And Prepare The Squash

   Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel the butternut squash and cut it in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and cube the squash into bite-sized pieces. Arrange the cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and toss them to coat evenly. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast the squash for about 25-30 minutes or until the pieces are tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.

2. Cook The Onions And Pears

   While the squash is roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the chopped pears and cook for another 5 minutes. The pears should begin to soften and release their natural sweetness.

3. Add The Spices And Broth

   Stir in the ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, letting the spices bloom for about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring it to a simmer, and cook for another 10 minutes. By this point, the pears should be completely soft.

4. Blend The Soup

   Once the roasted squash is ready, add it to the pot with the cooked pears and onions. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.

5. Finish With Coconut Milk (or Cream)

   Stir in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) for that luxurious texture. If you like a thinner soup, add more broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste for seasoning, adjusting with salt, pepper, or maple syrup to suit your preferences.

6. Serve

   Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a few thyme leaves for a touch of freshness, and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down the key ingredients and their contributions to this soup:

• Butternut Squash

  A powerhouse of nutrition, butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It also has a natural sweetness that deepens when roasted, giving the soup its creamy, comforting texture.

• Pears

  Pears bring a gentle sweetness and a subtle tartness to balance the richness of the squash. They’re high in fiber and vitamin C, making them not only delicious but also nutritious.

• Coconut Milk (or Heavy Cream)

  The coconut milk imparts a silky smooth consistency and a mild, tropical flavor, while also adding healthy fats. For a richer, more decadent version of the soup, you can substitute it with heavy cream.

• Spices (Ginger, Cinnamon, Nutmeg)

  These classic fall spices infuse the soup with warmth and depth. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon is known for its ability to stabilize blood sugar, and nutmeg adds a touch of nutty sweetness.

• Maple Syrup (Optional)

  A dash of pure maple syrup adds a hint of natural sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile. It’s a perfect way to highlight the pear’s natural sugars without relying on refined sugars.

Expert Tips

To make this soup even more special, consider these expert tips:

• Roast the squash at high heat: Roasting at a high temperature helps caramelize the squash, bringing out its natural sweetness and adding depth to the flavor. You can also roast the squash ahead of time for an even more efficient cooking process.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth, or add an extra spoonful of squash to create a richer texture. If you like it thinner, you can always add more broth or water.
• Use different pears: Bartlett pears are sweet and juicy, while Anjou or Bosc pears are firmer and lend a bit more texture to the soup. Experiment with different types for a unique twist.
• Herb-infused oil: For added flavor, infuse your olive oil with herbs like rosemary or sage before roasting the squash. This small touch elevates the dish with even more aromatic richness.
• Top with roasted seeds: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds over the soup right before serving. They add both texture and a nutty flavor.

Recipe Variations

While the butternut squash and pear combo is a winner on its own, you can switch things up to suit your taste:

• Add Protein

  To turn this soup into a more substantial meal, add protein by incorporating some cooked chicken or turkey. You could also add beans like cannellini beans for a plant-based option.

• Swap The Coconut Milk

  If you’re not a fan of coconut, feel free to swap in heavy cream, milk, or even a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.

• Add A Kick

  For a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper, a chopped fresh chili, or a drizzle of hot sauce. This will give the soup a surprising spicy note that complements the sweetness of the pears.

• Roasted Garlic

  Add roasted garlic to the soup for an extra layer of depth. Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness and brings out its sweetness, making it the perfect addition to this dish.

• Top With Cheese

  For a savory twist, top the soup with grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese. The tangy cheese adds a nice contrast to the smoothness of the soup.

Final Words

This Butternut Squash Pear Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It brings together the best of fall flavors in one comforting dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent. The combination of roasted butternut squash and sweet pears creates a perfectly balanced soup that can be enjoyed as a starter or a main dish. And, let’s be honest-there’s nothing better than sitting down to a bowl of something that’s as good for your body as it is for your soul.