Velvety blend of roasted acorn squash, aromatic vegetables, and cream for a warm, comforting dish.
# Ingredients:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Liquids
05 - 4 cups vegetable broth
06 - 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
→ Seasonings
07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
08 - 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
→ Garnish
12 - Roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
13 - Fresh thyme leaves
14 - A drizzle of cream
# Instructions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Brush cut sides of the acorn squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Place cut side down on the prepared baking sheet.
03 - Roast the squash for 35 to 40 minutes, until flesh is tender and browned at the edges. Remove and allow to cool slightly.
04 - Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sliced carrots; sauté 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
05 - Scoop roasted squash flesh into the pot. Add vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
06 - Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
07 - Remove pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth, or blend in batches using a countertop blender carefully.
08 - Stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free). Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
09 - Reheat gently if necessary. Ladle into bowls and garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds, fresh thyme leaves, and a drizzle of cream if desired.
