I was looking for a perfect antidote to a wintry evening. A comforting bowl of winter squash soup paired with golden cheddar cheese toast is the perfect answer. The soup, made from butternut squash, boasts a velvety texture and a sweet, earthy depth spiced with curry, cinnamon and cumin. Beside it, crisp slices of bread with warm melted, tangy cheddar cheese complement the soup's natural sweetness.
To buy: 1 small container apple juice, 1 container low sodium vegetable broth, 1/2 pound red or yellow potatoes, 1 container butternut squash cubes (12 ounces needed), 1 bottle curry powder, 1 bottle ground cinnamon, 1 bottle ground cumin, 1 bottle dried thyme, 1 bunch fresh parsley, 1 whole wheat baguette, and 1 package shredded Cheddar cheese.
Per serving: 267 calories (44 percent from fat), 12.9 g fat (4.2 g saturated, 5.2 g monounsaturated), 15 mg cholesterol, 8.6 g protein, 29.2 g carbohydrates, 2.0 g fiber, 358 mg sodium.