Autumn Harvest Creamy Squash Soup Bowls

A creamy fall soup, with carrots and butternut squash in roasted acorn squash bowls. The ultimate healthy comfort food this fall or winter season.
Servings: 4 (squash halves with soup)

Ingredients:

SQUASH

• 2 medium acorn squash (halved // optional for use as bowls)

• 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil (or avocado or grape seed oil)

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup or coconut sugar (plus more to taste)

SOUP

• 1 1/2 Tbsp coconut oil (or avocado or grape seed oil)

• 1/2 medium white or yellow onion (diced)

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 4 cups cubed sweet potato, carrots, or butternut squash (or a mixture of all three)

• 1 quart vegetable broth (DIY or store-bought)

• 1 tsp fresh or dried sage, fresh or dried thyme, or 2 bay leaves (amount as original recipe is written)

• 1 cup red lentils (optional // for protein / fiber)

• Sea salt and black pepper (to taste)

• 1-2 Tbsp maple syrup or coconut sugar (optional // depending on sweetness of your carrots/potato/squash)

FOR SERVING (optional)

• Sautéed kale or Kale Chips

• Diced red onion

• Baked chickpeas

• Fresh parsley

• Pomegranate arils

• Vegan Gluten Free Cornbread

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and use a sharp knife to carefully halve acorn squash lengthwise. Do so by inserting the tip of the knife in between two ridges and pressing all the way through, then pushing/rocking the knife to slice through one half. Repeat on the other side.

2. Scoop out seeds with a spoon or ice cream scoop and drizzle with oil and maple syrup (optional)  - rub with hands to distribute.

3. Place squash on a rimmed baking sheet or 9x13 inch baking dish and cover with foil.

4. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake for 30-40 minutes more, or until squash is fork tender and golden brown on the edges (baking time will vary based on size). Set aside.

5. In the meantime, start soup. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add oil, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 4 minutes or until onion is softened, then add sweet potato, squash and/or carrots (I used butternut squash and carrots).

6. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper and stir. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables appear slightly softened.

7. Add vegetable broth and herb of choice (I used sage and bay leaf) and bring mixture to a low boil over medium-high heat. If adding lentils, add at this time.

8. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, or until lentils and vegetables are tender. Then use an immersion blender or transfer to the blender and blend until creamy and smooth. Return to pot if blended in blender.

9. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding salt and pepper for flavor balance, herbs for earthiness, or a little maple syrup for sweetness.

10. Once acorn squash are baked, divide soup between the squash and garnish with topping(s) of choice.

    Inspired by The Minimalist Baker
    

Creamy Avocado Dip

Did you know avocados are actually a fruit? Rich in essential fatty acids known to guard against heart disease and have many anti-inflammatory properties. Avocados are abundant in vitamin K, dietary fiber, and have approx 5 grams of protein. They are a nutritious touch to salads, sandwiches, or as a delectable dip with your favorite raw veggies or a sauce with your meal. Let’s get dipping!

Ingredients 

• 2 medium peeled and pitted avocados 

• 1/2 cup plain greek yogurt or unsweetened plain plant based yogurt

• A tbsp of lemon or lime juice ( also helps with oxidizing)

• 1/2 tsp crushed garlic or a pinch of garlic powder

• 1/4 -1/2 tsp salt

Instructions 

• Mash avocados

• Combine all ingredients and combine by hand or pulse in a food processor ( scraping down sides)

• Transfer to bowl and chill

• Serve with fresh veggies, crackers, or with your favorite dish as a sauce.