Vegan Roasted Butternut Squash + Carrot Coconut Soup

Today, I want to share with you some delicious recipes featuring one of my favorite ingredients: butternut squash! From soups to snacks, these recipes are packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Roasted Butternut Squash Recipes

Let’s start with a classic: roasted butternut squash. This simple recipe is incredibly versatile and can be eaten as a side dish or used as a base for other recipes. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of herbs and spices.

### Ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: herbs and spices of your choice (such as rosemary, thyme, or cumin)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices.
3. Spread the squash out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from the oven and serve hot.

This roasted butternut squash recipe is incredibly easy to make and is a great way to enjoy the natural flavors of the vegetable. You can serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or use it as a filling for tacos or quesadillas. The possibilities are endless!

Butternut Squash Carrot Soup

Another fantastic way to enjoy butternut squash is in a comforting and creamy soup. This Butternut Squash Carrot Soup is a perfect option for those chilly autumn nights when you crave something warm and satisfying.

### Ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: roasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the butternut squash and carrots to the pot, and cook for a few minutes until slightly browned.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, curry powder, ginger, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
7. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.

This Butternut Squash Carrot Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and comforting meal. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Butternut Squash “Carrot” Cake

Okay, now it’s time for something sweet! This Butternut Squash “Carrot” Cake is a unique twist on a classic dessert. It’s moist, flavorful, and will satisfy any cravings you may have for a delicious cake.

### Ingredients:

• 2 cups butternut squash, cooked and mashed
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: cream cheese frosting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely before frosting, if desired.

This Butternut Squash “Carrot” Cake is a healthier version of the traditional carrot cake. The butternut squash adds moisture and sweetness without the need for excessive amounts of sugar or oil. Top it with a creamy cream cheese frosting for the ultimate indulgence.

Roasted Butternut Squash & Carrot Soup

If you’re looking for a vegan and gluten-free option, this Roasted Butternut Squash & Carrot Soup is the recipe for you. It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

### Ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: coconut milk, fresh cilantro, or toasted pumpkin seeds

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash and chopped carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
5. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
6. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
7. Add the roasted butternut squash and carrots to the pot, along with the vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
8. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
10. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
11. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.

This Roasted Butternut Squash & Carrot Soup is a must-try for anyone following a plant-based or gluten-free diet. The roasting process adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the vegetables, and the spices give the soup a warm and comforting kick. Serve it as an appetizer or as a main course with a side salad.

Butternut Squash Apple Bread

Last but not least, we have a fantastic recipe for Butternut Squash Apple Bread. This bread is moist, flavorful, and with the perfect balance of sweetness. It’s a great way to use up any leftover butternut squash and apples you may have.

### Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butternut squash puree
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: chopped nuts or dried fruits

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, combine the butternut squash puree, applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Optional: fold in chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This Butternut Squash Apple Bread is the perfect treat for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. It’s moist, lightly spiced, and packed with natural sweetness from the butternut squash and apples. Spread a bit of butter or cream cheese on a slice, and you’re in for a delightful treat.

Conclusion

There you have it, four delicious recipes featuring butternut squash. From the savory goodness of roasted squash to the comforting warmth of a creamy soup, and the sweetness of a cake or bread, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility and flavor of this seasonal ingredient. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, I hope you give these recipes a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures that butternut squash brings to the table.