- Heavy cream or coconut milk (1 cup for creamy version; omit for dairy-free version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nutmeg (a pinch) for added flavor
- Spinach Ravioli:
- Fresh spinach leaves (2 cups, packed)
- Semolina flour (3/4 cup)
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup)
- Eggs (2 large)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup)
- Olive oil for cooking (as needed)
- Additional Ingredients:
- Fresh spinach leaves (for garnish, optional)
- Chives or chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Steps
### Butternut Squash Soup with Spinach Ravioli: A Flavorful Autumn Dish
Butternut squash soup is a creamy, comforting choice that pairs wonderfully with spinach ravioli, creating a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for cooler months. Follow these detailed steps to create this cozy dish.
- Cut the butternut squash in half, scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
2. **Roast Butternut Squash:**
- Drizzle olive oil over the cut side of the squash.
- Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-60 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let cool, then scoop out the flesh.
3. **Cooking Onions and Garlic:**
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
4. **Add Broth and Spices:**
- Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pot with the onions and garlic.
- Add roasted butternut squash flesh, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
5. **Blend Soup:**
- Using an immersion blender directly in the pot, blend until smooth or transfer soup to a regular blender and blend until creamy.
- Return the blended soup back to the pot if necessary.
6. **Optional Creamy Finish:**
- For a creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream just before serving (optional).
7. **Cooking Ravioli:**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spinach ravioli and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
8. **Serve:**
- Ladle the butternut squash soup into bowls.
- Top each serving with cooked spinach ravioli, fresh spinach for garnish, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious butternut squash soup with spinach ravioli!
### Tips:
- For an extra touch, you can sauté some bacon bits or chopped pancetta in the onion mixture for added flavor.
- Use fresh thyme for a more aromatic dish.
By following these steps and using high-quality ingredients, you'll create a hearty butternut squash soup with spinach ravioli that's perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for any autumn meal!