Roasted Feta Soup

This creamy Roasted Feta Soup recipe combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the savory notes of sage and a hint of honey. Perfect for cozy evenings or as an elegant appetizer, this soup is not only simple to prepare but also showcases pantry staples beautifully. You’ll love how the roasted feta adds a rich depth of flavor, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious soup in under an hour.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of roasted butternut squash, garlic, and feta creates a creamy texture and delightful taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or pair it with bread for a hearty meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and herbs, this soup is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Impressive Presentation: Drizzle honey on top for a gourmet touch that will impress guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s helpful to gather your tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smoother experience while preparing your Roasted Feta Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Blender or immersion blender
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish or Dutch oven: Ideal for roasting ingredients evenly and retaining moisture during cooking.
• Blender or immersion blender: Essential for achieving that smooth, creamy texture that makes this soup so delightful.

Ingredients

To make your flavorful Roasted Feta Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 5 cups Butternut Squash (cubed (about 1 medium butternut squash or 2 12 oz bags of frozen butternut squash))
• 1/2 bulb Garlic (bottom half only)
• 1/3 cup Olive Oil
• 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
• 4 leaves Sage (or 1 teaspoon of herb of choice)

For the Creamy Element

• 1 8 oz Feta Chunk (Athenos is the brand I recommend)

For Flavor Enhancement

• 1 32 oz quart Vegetable Broth (4 cups)
• 2 tbsp Honey

How to Make Roasted Feta Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for roasting.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

In a braising pan or an oven-safe cookware like a Dutch oven:
1. Add extra virgin olive oil.
2. Toss in the cubed butternut squash along with kosher salt and dried herbs if using.
3. If you’re using fresh herbs, reserve them for later.

Step 3: Roast the Feta and Garlic

Place the feta chunk in the center of the pot. Nestle the garlic bulb (cut side down) nearby:
1. Cover your dish and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until everything is tender and fragrant.

Step 4: Blend It All Together

Once out of the oven:
1. Remove the roasted garlic bulb carefully.
2. Squeeze out the soft garlic into the pot.
3. Add honey and vegetable broth to combine flavors.
4. If using fresh herbs, add them now.

Step 5: Puree Until Smooth

Using your blender or immersion blender:
– Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup:
– Add more salt if desired for enhanced flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle honey over each bowl before serving:
– Pair with crispy feta toast for an extra special treat!

With these simple steps, you’ll enjoy a delightful bowl of Roasted Feta Soup that’s sure to warm your heart!

How to Serve Roasted Feta Soup

Roasted feta soup is a comforting and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to add some crunch or enhance the flavors, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience.

With Crispy Feta Toast

• Slice a baguette, drizzle with olive oil, and toast until golden. Top with crumbled feta for a delightful crunch alongside your soup.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or sage on top of each bowl. This adds color and a burst of freshness to the creamy soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the soup before serving enhances flavor and gives it a restaurant-style presentation.

Paired with a Simple Salad

• Serve your roasted feta soup with a mixed green salad dressed in vinaigrette. This combination provides balance and additional textures to your meal.

How to Perfect Roasted Feta Soup

Achieving the best roasted feta soup is simple if you follow these tips. With just a few adjustments, you can make this dish even more delightful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and herbs will significantly improve the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving; add salt or pepper to enhance its overall flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Consider adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne for an extra kick of warmth and depth.
• Blend Thoroughly: Ensure you blend the ingredients until completely smooth for the creamiest texture possible.
• Add Acidity: A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors, balancing the richness of the feta.
• Serve Warm: Always serve the soup warm to enjoy its comforting qualities fully.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Feta Soup

Pairing side dishes with roasted feta soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   The perfect companion, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, enhancing your dining experience.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing salad packed with protein makes for a nutritious side that complements the creaminess of the soup.

3. Grilled Vegetables
   Charred vegetables provide smoky flavors that pair wonderfully with roasted feta soup.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses offers variety and indulgence, appealing to cheese lovers alongside your dish.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and spices can add both texture and nutrition to your meal.

6. Crackers with Hummus
   Light and crunchy crackers served with hummus offer a fun way to dip into your delicious soup while providing extra fiber.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Roasted Feta Soup is simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using raw garlic: Raw garlic can be too pungent in the soup. Always roast it along with the other ingredients for a sweeter, milder flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning: A little salt goes a long way. Be sure to taste and adjust salt levels before serving to enhance flavors.
• Overcooking butternut squash: If you overcook the squash, it can become mushy. Monitor your cooking time closely for perfect texture.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, consider adding fresh ones at the end for a burst of freshness.
• Not blending thoroughly: For the best creamy texture, ensure you blend until completely smooth. Chunky soup may not have the desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Roasted Feta Soup

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Roasted Feta Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Pour soup into an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until simmering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Roasted Feta Soup:

How do I make Roasted Feta Soup vegan?

You can substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use agave syrup instead of honey.

Can I use other vegetables in Roasted Feta Soup?

Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or other squashes work well alongside butternut squash.

What should I serve with Roasted Feta Soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I add protein to Roasted Feta Soup?

Yes! Grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added for extra protein and texture.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Feta Soup is a delightful blend of creamy textures and rich flavors that make it perfect as an appetizer or light meal. It’s versatile too; feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy its comforting warmth on any occasion!