Butternut Squash—Bartlett Pear Soup

Vegetarian Times Issue: November 1, 2009 p.60 Chef Bryant Terry came up with this recipe during a cooking demonstration in Memphis, Tenn. "I went to the market and saw these beautiful squash and juicy pears,' he explains. "With some crusty bread, you can actually make a meal out of it.'

ingredient list

Serves 6

• 3 Tbs. olive oil
• 2 medium leeks, white and tender green parts finely chopped (3 cups)
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (2 lb.)
• 3 Bartlett pears, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch pieces (11/2 lb.)
• 5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 14-oz. can light coconut milk
• 1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
• Pumpkin seeds for garnish, optional

Directions

1. Heat oil in saucepan over medium-low heat. Add leeks, and cook 10 minutes, or until soft, stirring often.

2. Add squash and pears, and sauté 5 minutes. Stir in vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and add salt, if desired. Simmer 20 minutes, or until squash is fork-tender.

3. Remove from heat, and stir in coconut milk. Purée soup in batches in blender or food processor, or use immersion blender in saucepan; blend until smooth. Return soup to saucepan, and stir in thyme. Reheat over medium-low heat 2 to 3 minutes, or until warmed through. Season with salt and white pepper, if desired. Serve garnished with pumpkin seeds, if using.

Nutritional Information

Per :

Calories	264
Protein	3g
Total Fat	13g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbs	37g
Choelsterol	0mg
Sodium	138mg
Fiber	8g
Sugar	15g