Ah, fall! The season when the air turns crisp and everything seems to taste better with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg, right? Family dinners in autumn are a special kind of magic—warm, cozy, and filled with laughter echoing through the kitchen. So, grab a sweater, pour a mug of cider, and let’s dive into these comforting casseroles that promise to make your evenings as snug as a bug in a rug.
Steps
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, salt, and pepper, and sauté until the onion becomes soft, about 5 to 8 minutes.
- Incorporate the butternut squash, cooking it for 8 to 10 minutes until it starts to soften, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic, sage, rosemary, and ginger. Stir for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in 3 cups of broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20 to 30 minutes until the squash is tender.
- Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending it until smooth. Add up to 1 cup of extra broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the soup garnished with parsley, pepitas, and a side of crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 to 4 cups vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Pepitas, for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving
FAQ
- What are some popular fall dinner ideas?
- Some popular fall dinner ideas include creamy butternut squash pasta, vegetarian stuffed peppers, and homemade mac and cheese. These dishes are perfect for cozy autumn nights and are sure to satisfy your fall cravings.
- How can I make a dairy-free creamy pasta sauce?
- You can make a dairy-free creamy pasta sauce by blending butternut squash and cashews. This combination creates a rich and creamy sauce that resembles traditional mac and cheese but without any dairy.
- What is a simple side dish recipe for fall?
- An easy side dish for fall is roasted delicata squash. With its sweet, creamy flesh and thin, edible skin, delicata squash is delicious and simple to prepare. Pair it with kale, apples, and sage for added flavor.
- What are some classic fall desserts to try?
- Classic fall desserts include pumpkin bread, apple crumble, and cinnamon rolls. These treats are packed with seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice, apples, and cinnamon, making them perfect for autumn indulgence.
- How do you make butternut squash soup?
- To make butternut squash soup, sauté onions, salt, and pepper in a pot, then add squash and cook until soft. Add garlic, sage, rosemary, and ginger, followed by broth. Simmer until the squash is tender, then blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning and serve with parsley, pepitas, and crusty bread.
Tips
- Sauté the Onions Well: Make sure the onions are thoroughly softened before adding the squash. This step enhances the soup’s flavor base, providing a sweet and rich undertone.
- Balance the Broth: If you find your soup too thick after blending, gradually add more broth until you achieve the desired consistency. This allows for a creamy yet well-balanced soup.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh sage and rosemary for a more vibrant taste. These herbs infuse the soup with a delightful autumn aroma and flavor.
- Add Garnishes: Top your soup with fresh parsley, pepitas, and serve with a side of crusty bread. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds texture and additional flavor to the dish.
Equipment
- Large Pot – A good quality large pot for cooking the soup.
- Immersion Blender or Countertop Blender – For blending the soup until smooth.
- Chef’s Knife – A sharp chef’s knife for chopping vegetables.
- Cutting Board – A sturdy cutting board for preparing ingredients.
