Acorn Squash Soup

This Acorn Squash Soup recipe is a wonderful way to start any holiday meal - especially if you are looking for a Thanksgiving soup starter or a Christmas soup appetizer. Simple to make and easy to eat! Your friends and family will love it.

What you'll need:
- 2 acorn squashes (on the large side)
- 2 Tbsp. of butter
- 1 onion (small and chopped)
- 1 14.5-oz.can of chicken broth (or make your own)
- 1/4 tsp. of nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp. of cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp. of salt
- 4 3-inch slices of Italian or sourdough bread (toasted)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese

What to do:

1.Place both squashes (whole) on a paper towel in the microwave. If both don't fit, then, microwave them one at a time. Cook on high for about 5 minutes. You do not have to pierce the skin first. Turn them over and microwave for another 4 minutes or until the squash is a tiny bit tender when you pierce with a knife. Take them out of the microwave and let them stand for an additional 5 minutes.

2.While you are waiting for the squash to cool a little, you can melt the butter in a large saucepan and sauté the onion over medium heat.

3.Once the squash has cooled slightly, cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Keeping the shells intact, do your best to scoop out the rest of the flesh. Add the pulp to the onion and cook for a few minutes.

4.Add the broth, nutmeg, cayenne and salt. Bring all to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, uncovered.

5.Next, puree the squash mixture in a blender or food processor.

6. Reheat the soup mixture. Arrange the squash shells in oven proof soup bowls and place on a baking sheet.

7.Fill the squash shells with the soup and top with the pieces of toast and cheese slices.

8.Broil for about 3 minutes (5 inches from the heat source).

This beautiful soup appetizer makes 4 servings.

For more great soup ideas, check out our page called Soup Appetizers. AND... If you are STILL looking for more great soup ideas, check out Easy Appetizer Recipe's sister site, Soup Hoopla! - where you'll learn more than you ever wanted to know about soup - and find great recipes too!