Butternut Squash Soup with Grana Padano PDO, Crispy Croutons, and Roasted Chickpeas

Fall has never tasted so good.

There are few things that feel like fall as much as a warm and cozy bowl of butternut squash soup. This recipe is taken to the next level with crispy chickpeas, thyme-infused croutons, and decadent shavings of Grana Padano PDO. Crumbly and grainy, Grana Padano PDO is nutty and flavorful with aromas of butter and hay. With a minimum of 9 months aging, this incredible cheese evolves as it ages: the older the cheese, the more savory and complex, boasting a more grainy texture.

Grana Padano Pumpkin Soup

Difficulty

Easy

Serves

4 people

Preparation time

15 minutes

Cooking time

45 minutes

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for serving

21 oz cubed butternut squash

1 small Russet potato, peeled and diced

4 slices sourdough bread

1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

6 oz Grana Padano, shaved

STEPS

1

Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas and 2 tbsp olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, until crispy.

2

Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tbsp olive oil. Add the butternut squash and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add the potatoes and cover with water until 3/4 full. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook on low heat for 40 minutes, until tender, adding more water if needed.

3

Meanwhile, cut the bread into cubes and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil. Season with salt and the thyme. Toss until the bread is evenly coated, then bake for 10 minutes, until crisp.

4

Allow the soup to cool slightly. Transfer to a standard blender or use an immersion blender to blend soup until smooth. Divide soup among bowls and garnish with the chickpeas, croutons, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and flakes of Grana Padano PDO.

Stop by our stores or order local delivery to try this cozy recipe out for yourself.