A pumpkin is a beloved winter squash from the Cucurbita family. It is most famous for its classic round, vibrant orange look. However, it actually comes in many shapes, sizes, and colors. This nutrient powerhouse is loaded with vitamins A and C, essential for strong immunity and sharp eyesight. Pumpkins shine in the kitchen, starring in both sweet treats like pies and hearty savory dishes such as bread. Plus, they bring festive charm when carved into jack-o’-lanterns at Halloween. Fun fact: “pumpkin” is also a sweet nickname in English!

Pumpkin soup is a must-try for anyone looking to nourish their body deliciously. It is packed with beta-carotene, which turns into vitamin A in your body. It contains fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. This combination supports your immune system and boosts eye health. It also aids digestion and promotes a healthy heart. Naturally hydrating and low in calories, pumpkin soup is comforting. It is also a smart choice for staying full and maintaining a balanced diet.

Pumpkin is a delightful fall and winter staple. It embodies the cozy spirit of the season. It also offers impressive health benefits. This makes it a must-have ingredient for your seasonal food blog. This winter squash is rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene. It contains vitamins A and C. It also provides essential minerals such as potassium and fiber. It supports immune health, vision, digestion, and heart function. These benefits are particularly important during the colder months when the body needs extra nourishment.

Pumpkin’s natural sweetness and versatility make it perfect for a variety of recipes. It is especially ideal for pumpkin soup. Pumpkin soup is a quintessential autumn and winter comfort food. Pumpkin soup is not only delicious and warming. It is also a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish. It promotes fullness and aids weight management. This makes it ideal for those seeking balance during holiday indulgences. Its high water content helps keep you hydrated, while the fiber supports digestive health. The antioxidants in pumpkin soup combat seasonal oxidative stress and inflammation. They boost your immune system. They also promote radiant skin even in harsh weather.

Pumpkin Soup Recipe

Ingredients: 2 kg pumpkin or butternut squash(peeled), 2 sweet potatoes, 3 carrots, 1 onion, 1 clove of garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, cinnamon, red pepper flakes(optional), 30 g fresh ginger, orange zest and orange juice from 1 orange, lemon juice from 1 lemon,1 ½ ltr water(boiled)

Cooking time: around 1h

Instructions:

·         Preheat the oven to 180°C (350° F) set to fan.

·         Clean the pumpkin or butternut squash, cut it into pieces, and remove its seeds. 

·         Line a baking pan with parchment paper and spread the pumpkin pieces over it. 

·         Cut the carrots, onion, sweet potatoes and garlic into slices, and add them to the pan. 

·         Add the thyme, olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, red pepper flakes(optional).

·         Cover the pan with aluminum foil. Transfer it to the oven. Bake the veggies for 1 ½ hour until they are tender. You can bake the veggies even without covering with aluminum foil. Just be sure your veggies will get cooked well.

·         Place a pot over high heat and allow it to heat up well.  

·         Remove the vegetables from the oven, transfer them to the pot, and stir well with a wooden spoon.

·         Add the ginger, the orange zest, the orange juice, the lemon juice and stir. 

·         Lower the heat, add the water and simmer the soup for a few more minutes.  

·         Remove the pot from the heat and blend until it is perfectly smooth.

·         You can adjust the thickness of your soup by adding slowly more water.

·         Serve with fresh bread or croutons, Greek graded feta or cream cheese (optional) and mint.

ENJOY!