Welcome to easycrispyrecipes.com! Today, we’re diving into a delightful and heartwarming recipe that’s perfect for any season: Butternut Squash Soup With Crispy Prosciutto. This rich, savory soup combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the salty crunch of prosciutto, creating a symphony of flavors that’s sure to impress. Butternut squash soup has been cherished for its comforting qualities and nutritional benefits, making it a staple in many households. Let’s explore this delicious recipe and learn some interesting facts along the way!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crispy Prosciutto
- 6 slices prosciutto
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Croutons
- A dollop of sour cream or yogurt
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base
- While the squash is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Once the butternut squash is done roasting, add it to the pot with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Using an immersion blender (or transferring the mixture to a countertop blender in batches), blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the coconut milk, ground nutmeg, and ground cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine fully.
Step 4: Make the Crispy Prosciutto
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the prosciutto slices and cook until they become crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Crumble the crispy prosciutto over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, if desired.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Roasting for Flavor: Roasting the butternut squash enhances its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to the soup.
- Blending Options: For a smoother texture, blend the soup in batches in a countertop blender. Be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid hot splashes.
- Consistency Control: Adjust the consistency by adding more vegetable broth if you prefer a thinner soup, or less if you like it thicker.
Variations and Substitutions
- Butternut Squash Soup with Bacon: Substitute crispy prosciutto with bacon for a different smoky flavor.
- Butternut Squash Soup with Coconut Milk: Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version that adds a hint of tropical flavor.
- Savory Butternut Squash Soup: Add a teaspoon of sage and thyme for a more herbaceous profile.
- Butternut Squash and Sour Cream Soup: Stir in a dollop of sour cream for a tangy twist.
- Spicy Butternut Squash Soup with Bacon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for some heat.
Dietary Options
- Vegan Option: Make it a vegan roasted butternut squash soup by omitting the prosciutto and using coconut milk instead of cream.
- Quick Butternut Squash Soup: Use pre-cubed butternut squash from the store to save prep time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion
This Butternut Squash Soup With Crispy Prosciutto is a wonderful dish that brings together the creamy texture of roasted butternut squash and the delightful crunch of crispy prosciutto. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold day or a delicious starter for a dinner party, this soup is sure to satisfy. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this recipe as much as we do!
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