Butternut Squash (© Photographer: Les Sanders | Agency: Dreamstime.com)

Summer's seasonal delights may have faded from farmers markets, but Fall favorites have arrived in abundance! Our friends at Organic Valley Family of Farms provided this recipe to satisfy cool weather cravings for warming soups and stews with a recipe that delivers the spiciness of curry and cayenne, along with the unique flavors and healthy aspects of squash, lentils, and easy-to-find produce.

Organic Valley is a farmer-owned co-op that says, “We think it's a simple truth. The earth's most delicious, most healthful foods are made when farmers work in harmony with nature.” The organization started with 7 farmers forming an organic cooperative in 1988. Today, more than 1,600 family farms are members and their high standards shine through in their delicious, award-winning, certified organic foods.

Judging by this recipe they seem to know quite a bit about making great soup. To serve this soup at its best, get as many ingredients as possible fresh from your local farmers market at harvest time.

Ingredients for 6 Servings

• 1 Tablespoon Organic Valley European-style Cultured Butter
• 2 Cups peeled, chopped butternut squash
• ½ Cup finely chopped shallots
• ½ Cup chopped onions
• 1 Ripe tomato, peeled & chopped
• 1 Large carrot, chopped
• 1 Stalk celery, chopped
• 6 Cups vegetable broth, or more as needed
• ½ Cup lentils, rinsed
• 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 Tablespoon curry powder
• 1/8 Teaspoon cayenne powder
• 1 Bay leaf
• Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation

Melt butter in a large, heavy saucepan over medium flame. Add prepared vegetables and saute for 5 minutes. Add broth and all remaining ingredients except salt and pepper. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until vegetables and lentils are tender, about 45 minutes. Thin soup with additional broth if necessary. Season with salt and pepper. Ladle soup into bowls and serve with warm country rolls or baguettes and European-style butter.

Copyright by Organic Valley Family of Farms ©

To learn more about the farmers' cooperative, go to: Organic Valley Family of Farms

To view all the recipes on the American Feast web site just scroll down after you go to: American Feast's Recipe Collection

To follow American Feast on Facebook go to: American Feast on Facebook

To follow American Feast's Founder on Twitter go to: Jeff Deasy on Twitter

For information related to the purchase of advertising space and editorial coverage on the American Feast web site call Jeff Deasy toll free at 877-332-7875 or email him at jdeasy@americanfeast.com