Savory Pumpkin Soup

If you just found out your favorite pumpkin latte has over 300 calories, treat yourself to a rich pumpkin soup that’s also good for your health. This vegetarian starter offers the benefits of high fiber without the fat and calories of a cream-based soup. All winter squash, like pumpkin, is rich in carotenoids. These antioxidants help promote normal cell growth and have been shown to reduce risk for cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx and lung.

Makes 8 servings.

Per serving(6 servings): 71 calories, 1 g total fat (<1 g saturated fat), 16 g carbohydrate, 3 g protein, 0 g dietary fiber, 284 mg sodium.

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, divided
4 cups pumpkin purée (canned or fresh) (butternut squash may be substituted)
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic

1 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
2 Tbsp. light whipping cream (optional)
1 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped
Nutmeg (optional) 1/2 tsp

Directions

In large pot over medium-high heat add 3 cups broth, pumpkin, onion, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Bring to boil. Reduce to low and simmer uncovered, about 30 minutes.
Purée mixture until smooth, in small batches, using blender or food processor. Return to pot. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes. Add remaining broth as desired. (Optional, stir in cream.)
Pour into bowls. Garnish with parsley (or sprinkle of nutmeg) and serve.

Grocery list

Low-sodium vegetable broth
Pumpkin purée (canned or fresh) (butternut squash may be substituted)
Onion
Garlic
Thyme
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Light whipping cream (optional)
Parsley
Nutmeg (optional)

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Recipe: Pumpkin Pie