Roasted squash and parsnip soup

6 Servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
poundsOrange-Flesh Winter Squash; Such As Butternut
1mediumLeek; Trimmed; White & Green Parts, Cut Into 1/4\" Pieces
3Cloves Garlic; Peeled And Minced
1teaspoonFinely Grated Fresh Ginger; Or More To Taste
4ouncesParsnips (1 Medium); Peeled, Cut Into 1/4\" Pieces
1teaspoonSalt; Plus More To Taste
¼teaspoonFreshly Ground Pepper; Plus More To Taste
4cupsLow Sodium Chicken Broth; Skimmed Of Fat
2slicesWhole Wheat Bread; Crusts Removed*
3tablespoonsFreshly Grated Parmesan
Olive Oil Spray

Directions

Spray a stockpot with cooking spray. Cut the squash in half lengthwise.

Remove the seeds and fiber, and peel. Cut into ½" pieces, and set aside.

Over medium-low heat, cook the leeks and garlic, covered, until softened, 3 ~ 5 minutes. Add the ginger, squash, and parsnips. Stir, and cook over medium heat 3 - 5 minutes. Add the salt, pepper, and stock. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, 12 ~ 15 minutes. Transfer half the mixture to a food processor and puree.

Return to the stockpot until warm throughout. Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, cut the bread into ½" cubes. Toast until golden brown.

Sprinkle with the Parmesan, and return to the oven, until the cheese begins to melt. Serve the soup in individual bowls with the toasted cheese croutons on top.

NOTES : * bread slices should be ¾" Recipe by: Martha Stewart Living Magazine, 10/97 Posted to MC-Recipe Digest V1 #832 by LBotsko@... on Oct 8, 1997