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)

Vegetarian Borscht
Bowls of vibrant red beet and vegetable soup with a dollop of sour cream and parsley.

Vegetarian Borscht

Borscht is a soup that was first made in Eastern Europe hundreds of years ago. This variation includes beets with cabbage, beans and other vegetables.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
50 minutes
Makes:
12 cups
Kamut Breakfast Bowl with Tofu and Garbanzo Bean Scramble
Bowls of kamut with a tofu and vegetable topping.

Kamut Breakfast Bowl with Tofu and Garbanzo Bean Scramble

This savory and satisfying breakfast bowl features kamut, an ancient form of wheat with a firm texture and nutty flavor.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
8 servings
Watermelon Cooler
Glasses filled with pink juice.

Watermelon Cooler

A refreshing, kid-approved drink with only 2 ingredients.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Corn Critter Salad
Appetizing variety of corn, bean and vegetable mix garnished with cilantro

Corn Critter Salad

Quick and colorful salad with canned beans, fresh cilantro and a light vinaigrette. Ready in about 10 minutes!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Peanut Power Smoothie
Glasses of creamy smoothies.

Peanut Power Smoothie

A creamy and satisfying smoothie that's perfect as part of a quick breakfast
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Cherry Puff Pancake
Photo of Cherry Puff Pancake

Cherry Puff Pancake

A fun to bake pancake recipe known by some as a Dutch Baby. Try with cherries or your favorite fruit.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 pieces