Dive into a bowl of comfort with our Roasted Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup—a delightful Italian dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds! Imagine the rich, velvety texture of roasted butternut squash combined with pillowy gnocchi, all enveloped in a fragrant broth that’s perfect for any season. Whether you're seeking a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, this soup is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your culinary skills? Let’s uncover the secrets to creating this mouthwatering masterpiece!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 400g gnocchi
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Peel the butternut squash and cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coating.
- Spread the squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until edges are golden and squash is tender.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and thyme to the pot, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the roasted butternut squash cubes to the broth.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some squash chunks for texture. Alternatively, carefully transfer half the soup to a blender and pulse.
- Add gnocchi to the soup and cook for 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface, indicating they are heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh thyme or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a firm butternut squash with smooth skin. A heavier squash indicates more flesh inside, which means more flavor for your soup!
- Roasting Perfection: Make sure to spread the squash cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting. This helps achieve that delicious caramelization that enhances the soup's flavor.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to add other herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist. A sprinkle of nutmeg can also elevate the sweetness of the squash.
- Blending Options: For a creamier texture, blend more of the soup, but remember to leave some chunks for a satisfying bite. If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender works just fine—just be cautious with the hot liquid!
- Gnocchi Cooking: Keep an eye on the gnocchi as they cook; they’re done when they float to the top. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so be ready to serve as soon as they rise.
- Garnishing: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can take your soup to the next level. Fresh thyme leaves also add a lovely touch!
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the soup and gnocchi separately to maintain the gnocchi's texture. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
