Name: Delicious Roasted Feta Soup with Butternut Squash & Honey Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 medium Butternut Squash (or two 12 oz bags of frozen squash); 0.5 bulb Garlic (cut side down); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra virgin recommended); to taste Kosher Salt; 4 leaves Sage (or 1 tsp dried); 8 oz Feta Cheese (Athenos brand recommended); 32 oz Vegetable Broth; 2 tablespoons Honey

On a particularly gray afternoon, the kind that calls for something warm and inviting, I stumbled upon the perfect remedy: creamy roasted feta soup with butternut squash and honey. This delightful soup combines sweet, velvety butternut squash with tangy feta and earthy sage, creating a dish that simply wraps you in comfort. Not only is it an easy soup recipe using pantry staples, but it also transforms those simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Plus, it’s a vegetarian option that everyone will love, making it a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Are you ready to bring this bowl of coziness into your kitchen and discover just how comforting homemade soup can be?

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting and Hearty: This Roasted Feta Soup is like a warm hug on a cold day, perfect for satisfying your cozy cravings.

Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples like butternut squash and feta, you can create a gourmet dish without any fuss.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet squash, tangy feta, and earthy sage creates a rich and savory profile that you won’t forget.

Packed with Nutrients: Enjoy a guilt-free indulgence with healthy fats from olive oil and vitamins from the squash, making it a wholesome vegetarian option.

Versatile Pairing: This soup pairs beautifully with crispy feta toast, but don’t hesitate to try it alongside a savory grilled cheese or Mediterranean chicken meatballs for a complete meal!

With recipes like this, you’ll be inspired to skip fast food altogether. Dive into comforting flavors and make your taste buds happy!

Roasted Feta Soup Ingredients

• Discover the delightful components of this Roasted Feta Soup with Butternut Squash & Honey that create a symphony of flavors.

For the Soup

Butternut Squash – Provides sweetness and body to the soup; use about 1 medium squash or two 12 oz bags of frozen squash.
Garlic – Adds depth and sweetness when roasted; use half a bulb, cut side down.
Olive Oil – Essential for roasting and flavor; extra virgin is highly recommended for richness.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
Sage (or other herbs) – Adds earthy notes; fresh is preferable, using about 4 leaves or 1 tsp dried.
Feta Cheese – Creates a creamy, tangy base for the soup; Athenos brand is recommended.
Vegetable Broth – The liquid base needed for blending; aim for 32 oz to achieve creaminess.
Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors; approximately 2 tablespoons will do the trick.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move forward in crafting this soul-warming dish that will surely sweep you off your feet!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Feta Soup with Butternut Squash & Honey

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to create the perfect roasting environment for your vegetables. This temperature will enhance the natural sweetness of the butternut squash while imparting a lovely caramelized flavor to the garlic and feta. Make sure your oven is fully heated before proceeding to the next step for optimal results.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a Dutch oven, combine olive oil, peeled and cubed butternut squash, kosher salt, and sage (if using). Toss everything together to ensure the squash is evenly coated with oil and seasoning. The vibrant color of the squash should shine through once it’s mixed. This blend will be the base of your creamy roasted feta soup.

Step 3: Add Feta and Garlic
Nestle the block of feta cheese and garlic, cut side down, among the squash in the pot. This arrangement allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they roast together. Cover the Dutch oven tightly with a lid or foil, then place it in the preheated oven. Roast for 45-60 minutes until the squash is fork-tender and the feta is softened and slightly golden.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients for Blending
Once roasted, carefully remove the pot from the oven. Allow it to cool for a couple of minutes before handling. Squeeze the soft roasted garlic into the pot, adding its sweet and savory essence to the mix. Pour in the honey and vegetable broth, transforming the roasted ingredients into a luxurious creaminess for your Roasted Feta Soup.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Using an immersion blender or transferring the mixture to a standard blender, blend the soup until it’s completely smooth. This should take a few minutes; the soup should be velvety with no chunks remaining. If needed, adjust the seasoning with additional salt to taste. The vibrant orange color of your soup should be visually enticing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm Roasted Feta Soup with Butternut Squash & Honey into bowls and prepare to delight your senses. Top with a drizzle of honey for added sweetness and serve with crispy feta toast or your favorite accompaniments. Enjoy this comforting dish, and let the flavors wrap you in warmth and satisfaction on any chilly day!

Variations & Substitutions for Roasted Feta Soup

Feel free to make this comforting soup your own by adding your favorite flavors and ingredients!

Herb Swap: Try substituting sage with thyme, rosemary, or basil for a different aromatic flavor. Each herb lends its unique twist to the soup’s cozy profile.
Honey Alternative: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetness that adds a subtle depth to the dish. The caramel notes of maple complement the roasted squash beautifully.
Cheese Change: Swap feta for goat cheese for a tangier flavor or even cream cheese for a milder, smoother texture. This variation will give the soup a delightful creaminess that’s equally comforting.
Broth Variety: For a richer taste, substitute vegetable broth with homemade chicken broth or mushroom broth for an umami boost that deepens the flavor profile.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle in some toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts as a topping for a crunchy texture contrast. It adds delightful layers of flavor and heartiness to every bowl.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper! A little spice can elevate this dish and warm you from the inside out.
Creamy Upgrade: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for an even richer consistency, ideal for those chilly evenings when you truly need that comforting warmth.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some chopped carrots or sweet potatoes during roasting for added sweetness and a boost of nutrition, making your soup even more wholesome.

As you explore these variations, don’t hesitate to be inspired by other recipes such as the Creamy Chicken Poblano Soup or experiment with a refreshing side like Feta Cranberry Rigatoni. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Roasted Feta Soup

• Fresh Herbs Rule: Using fresh herbs towards the end elevates the flavor; if you can’t find them, remember dried herbs work too.

• Avoid Overblending: To maintain a creamy texture, blend just until smooth; over-blending can make the soup too thin.

• Kid-Friendly Twist: For a fun and hearty version, mix in cooked macaroni to transform your roasted feta soup into a delightful mac and cheese!

• Protein Boost: For added nutrition, serve the soup with Mediterranean feta chicken meatballs or pan-fried shrimp to satisfy hunger.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt as needed, focusing on balancing the sweetness of the honey with the feta tang.

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Feta Soup with Butternut Squash & Honey are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the butternut squash and garlic, as well as combine the olive oil, salt, and sage, up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate them in an airtight container after roasting to maintain their flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply blend the prepped ingredients with honey and vegetable broth, and reheat gently on the stove. This ensure the soup remains just as delicious and comforting as when it was freshly made, saving you time on busy nights while still delivering that warm, inviting flavor your family will adore.

How to Store and Freeze Roasted Feta Soup

Fridge: Store the Roasted Feta Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to retain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze this soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool before transferring to avoid condensation that can lead to freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Make-Ahead Idea: Prepare the soup ahead of time and store it for a busy weeknight meal. It’s a perfect option for meal prep!

What to Serve with Roasted Feta Soup with Butternut Squash & Honey

As you indulge in the cozy allure of creamy soup, let these delightful pairings round out your meal in perfect harmony.

Crispy Feta Toast: Perfect for dipping, these slices of toasted bread topped with feta add a satisfying crunch against the velvety soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic comfort food, this melty treat enhances the soup’s sweetness, creating a truly heartwarming combo.
Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs: Juicy and flavorful, these protein-packed meatballs complement the creamy textures while adding a savory depth.
Honey-Drizzled Biscuits: Light and fluffy, their sweetness ties seamlessly to the honey in the soup, offering a delightful balance.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts provide a lovely contrast in texture while enhancing the earthy notes of sage.
Wine Pairing: A glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, brightens up the flavors of the soup with its crisp acidity.

This delightful selection elevates your meal, ensuring every spoonful and bite is equally comforting and satisfying!

Roasted Feta Soup with Butternut Squash & Honey Recipe FAQs

What type of butternut squash should I use?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for one that is firm, heavy for its size, and has a smooth, tan skin. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes. You can use either a medium-sized squash or opt for two 12 oz bags of frozen squash if you’re short on time!

How should I store leftover Roasted Feta Soup?
Very simple! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to keep it fresh and tasty. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze Roasted Feta Soup?
Yes, indeed! To freeze this comforting soup, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to eat, then reheat on low heat while stirring occasionally for the best texture.

What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If your Roasted Feta Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t fret! You can easily adjust the consistency by adding a bit of vegetable broth or water, stirring until you achieve your desired creaminess. For best results, do this slowly and taste along the way!

Is this soup suitable for people with dairy allergies?
The Roasted Feta Soup contains feta cheese, which isn’t suitable for those with dairy allergies. If you need a dairy-free alternative, consider using cashew cream or a dairy-free feta made from nuts. Just ensure you balance out the flavors, as these alternatives might need a bit more seasoning.

Can I add other ingredients to this soup?
The more the merrier! You can jazz up your soup by adding other veggies like carrots or parsnips for extra sweetness, or try topping it with candied nuts or crispy bacon bits for a delightful crunch. Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your taste!