Chipotle Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients

  • 2 cups diced peeled butternut squash
  • 1 small carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 green onion, sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth, divided
  • 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/4 cup minced fresh basil
  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (11 ounces) Mexicorn, drained
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • Fresh sage, optional

Preparation

Step 1

In a large saucepan, saute the squash, carrot, onion and cumin in oil for 10 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Add 1-1/2 cups broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender; cool slightly.
Transfer mixture to a blender; add the tomatoes, cream cheese, basil, chipotle pepper and remaining broth. Cover and process for 1-2 minutes or until smooth.
Return to the saucepan; stir in the beans, corn and spinach. Cook and stir until spinach is wilted and soup is heated through. If desired, sprinkle with fresh sage.
Editor’s Note: If garnish is desired, sprinkle butternut squash seeds with 1/8 teaspoon salt. Place on a baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 10-13 minutes or until golden brown.