Here's an inexpensive soup to serve that's a beautiful fall pumpkin color from my Moms in Touch Prayer Group Leadership:

 

Autumn Bisque serves 6

 

1 # butternut squash

2 tart apples, peeled, cored, and cubed

1 med. onion, chopped

4 c. chicken broth (I use the kind without MSG)

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/4 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed

1/4 tsp. dried marjoram, crushed

about 1/4 cup mashed potato flakes

 

Bring all the ingedients to a boil over high heat.  Lower and simmer the vegetables for 30-45 min. until tender. Remove in batches to a blender and  blend until smooth.  Pour soup back into pot and sprinkle in mashed potato flakes until desired consistency.  Mix in well until you have a "cream" soup consistency.  Re-warm and serve.  Top with a dollop of low fat sour cream if desired.