Skip to main content

Autumn Squash Bisque with Ginger

Delicious squash soup seasoned with ginger and pear that’s easy and quick to make for lunch or dinner. Freezes well.
A bowl of smooth squash soup spiced with ginger and garlic is topped with yogurt and chopped parsley.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Makes: 10 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

2 teaspoons vegetable oil
2 cups chopped onion
2 pounds winter squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 2-inch cubes (4 generous cups)
2 pears, peeled, cored, and chopped, or 1 can (15 ounces) sliced pears, drained
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tablespoons peeled and chopped fresh ginger, or 1 teaspoon powdered ginger
½ teaspoon thyme
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (see Notes)
1 cup water
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
½ cup plain nonfat yogurt

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. Rinse or scrub fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before preparing.
  3. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  4. Add onions and stir until softened, 3 to 4 minutes.
  5. Add squash, pears, garlic, ginger and thyme. Stir while cooking for 1 or 2 minutes.
  6. Add broth and water. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer with pot covered until squash is tender, about 35 to 40 minutes.
  7. Purée soup in a blender or with an immersion blender. If using a blender, follow manufacturer’s directions for puréeing hot liquids.
  8. Return soup to pot and heat through. Stir in lemon juice.
  9. Garnish each serving with a spoonful of yogurt.
  10. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • No broth? Use 1 teaspoon or 1 cube bouillon dissolved in 1 cup water for each cup of broth.
  • Freeze extra lemon juice to use later.

Comments

I made this recipe using Butternut squash and Bosc pears. There was no one who tried it that didn't love it. The prep is a little involved and then there is the additional pureeing step as well, but trust me--this recipe is worth it :) So delicious!

We made this recently for a food bank demonstration and it scaled up really well. Some folks were hesitant to try it but those that did really loved the flavor.

I really love the creamy texture and flavor of this recipe.  I actually made a big batch and froze it in portion sizes to reheat for dinner after the birth of my baby.  It freezes really well.  Thanks!

One word. Yum!

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Butternut Squash and Chile Pan-Fry
Bowl of seasoned butternut squash topped with shredded cheese.

Butternut Squash and Chile Pan-Fry

This simple and tasty recipe using butternut squash will be a hit with everyone. Enjoy as a side or a filling for quesadillas, tacos, enchiladas or tamales.
Prepare:
30 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
7 Cups
Fish Salad
Plates with cabbage and vegetables below a fish, ranch and salsa topping.

Fish Salad

Fresh combination of vegetables, fish fillet and creamy ranch.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Plate of tender shredded pork.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This easy Pulled Pork recipe is made with pork shoulder and spices from your pantry. Slow cooking is a simple way to create tender and juicy pork for many different meals.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
7 to 9 hours
Makes:
5 cups
Apple Spice Baked Oatmeal
Display of Apple Spice Oatmeal recipe squares

Apple Spice Baked Oatmeal

This make-ahead baked oatmeal breakfast recipe with fruit and whole grains is kid approved!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
9 Squares (2.5 inches x 2.5 inches)
Chicken and Black Bean Salsa Burritos
Bean and chicken mix wrapped in flour tortillas and tin foil shown on plates.

Chicken and Black Bean Salsa Burritos

Tortillas are rolled around a flavorful filling of beans, spices and chicken. Kids and adults will love them for a quick and tasty breakfast, lunch or dinner!
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
4 Burritos
Mix and Match Skillet Meal
Rice, chicken, vegetable and cheese dish.

Mix and Match Skillet Meal

Make this stir fry your own with your favorite protein, vegetables, and grain!
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
6 cups