Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Prep Time:30 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Servings: 4 minutes

Roasting butternut squash with herbs and garlic gives this healthy soup a more complex flavor. A bit of maple syrup adds sweetness, while a splash of apple-cider vinegar brightens up the flavors. This easy recipe requires just 15 minutes of active prep time, but you can cut down on that even more by buying precut squash. Serve with bread and a salad for a light supper, or as a starter for a holiday meal.

Ingredients:
  • 1 medium butternut squash (2 1/4 pounds), peeled, seeded and cut into 1-inch chunks (6 cups)
  • 3 medium shallots, halved lengthwise
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 5 sprigs thyme, plus thyme leaves for garnish
  • 1 sprig rosemary
  • 4 large fresh sage leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cups unsalted chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon crème fraîche
Directions:
  1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Place squash, shallots, garlic, thyme, rosemary and sage on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with oil; toss to coat. Spread in an even layer. Roast until very tender, 30 to 35 minutes, stirring halfway through cook time. Remove and discard the thyme and rosemary. Transfer the remaining squash mixture to a blender.
  2. Add broth to the blender. Secure lid on the blender, and remove center piece to allow steam to escape. Place a clean towel over opening. Puree until smooth, about 45 seconds. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids, and puree the squash with the broth in batches if necessary.)
  3. Pour the soup into a medium saucepan; stir in vinegar, maple syrup and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Ladle evenly into 6 bowls; dollop each with 1 1/2 tablespoons crème fraîche. Garnish with thyme leaves, if desired.