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)

Corn and Tomato Salad
Corn and tomato mix with dressing in a small bowl.

Corn and Tomato Salad

Light and refreshing salad idea with Italian dressing and fresh herbs. A great option for side dishes, potlucks or summer BBQs.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
3 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
Squash Blossom Quesadilla
Plate of corn tortillas folded over cheese and squash blossom filling with salsa.

Squash Blossom Quesadilla

Tortillas filled with tender sautéed squash blossoms and creamy cheese. Make them your own by adding salsa, peppers, cilantro or epazote.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
6 quesadillas
Breakfast Banana Split
A bowl with halved banana is topped with yogurt, pineapple chunks and a sprinkle of granola.

Breakfast Banana Split

Try this kid-approved recipe for a healthy and fun breakfast. Whole-grain cereal is topped with yogurt, pineapple and a drizzle of honey.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
2 Banana Splits
Pear Quesadillas
Plate of golden tortilla folded over a cheese, pear and vegetable filling.

Pear Quesadillas

A unique and delicious sweet and savory quesadilla recipe.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
8 wedges
Chimichurri
bowl of chimichurri

Chimichurri

This fresh green sauce is perfect on grilled or roasted proteins and vegetables. Also use on grain bowls or as a marinade. Thanks to the Latin Heritage Workgroup for their assistance.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
1 cup