Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium potato, peeled and diced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup! It's bright and delicious with a perfect balance of tangy lemon and fresh spinach. The smooth texture makes it incredibly comforting, and I find it's the ideal dish for a chilly evening or a light lunch. I appreciate how quick and easy this recipe is, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Every time I make it, I'm amazed at how a few simple ingredients can create such a flavorful and satisfying soup!

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:34:13.348Z

I've spent years perfecting my creamy soups, but this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup truly stands out. The addition of lemon not only brightens the flavor but also enhances the green freshness of the spinach. I learned that using vegetable broth instead of water gives a deeper flavor, making each spoonful more delicious!

One tip that has transformed my soups is to sauté the onions before adding any liquid. This step builds a wonderful base flavor that really elevates the dish. Paired with a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving, this soup is a true showstopper!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavor that awakens the palate
Silky texture that feels indulgent without the fuss
Quick preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Lemon in the Soup

The addition of lemon juice is what elevates this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup from a simple vegetable soup to a refreshing and vibrant dish. The acidity of the lemon balances the creamy elements, making each bite feel lighter and more complex. Add the lemon juice at the end of the cooking process to preserve its bright flavor; if added too early, it may lose some of the freshness.

When selecting a lemon for this recipe, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size. This usually indicates juiciness. If you're looking for a milder lemon flavor, consider adding the juice of half a lemon initially, then tasting the soup before adding more.

Choosing and Preparing Spinach

Fresh spinach is key to achieving that vibrant green color and nutritional boost in your soup. When selecting spinach, opt for leaves that are bright and crisp without any yellowing. If you want to save time, pre-washed spinach is a great option, but always check for any tough stems before chopping. Alternatively, you can use frozen spinach; just ensure it’s thawed and drained to avoid excess water in your soup.

Adding spinach toward the end of the cooking process allows it to wilt perfectly, retaining its bright color and nutritional integrity. Overcooking the spinach can lead to a dull color and bitter taste, so aim for just 3-4 minutes for optimal texture and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover soup, it stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enhance the flavor, consider letting the soup cool completely before refrigerating. This allows flavors to meld further, making the next serving even tastier. Just be sure to reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the creamy texture—slow and steady is the way to go.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. To do this effectively, allow the soup to cool, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remember to leave some space at the top for expansion. When ready to enjoy again, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge before reheating it on the stovetop; this helps maintain the soup's creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful soup!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium potato, peeled and diced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

You can customize the ingredients with your favorite herbs or spices!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your creamy lemon soup!

Sauté the Onions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the Vegetables

Add the diced potato and chopped spinach to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt.

Incorporate the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.

Blend and Finish

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If desired, stir in the heavy cream and the juice of one lemon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve your soup warm with a slice of crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing your soup with croutons or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Making It Your Own

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is very versatile, and you can easily customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. For additional protein, consider stirring in some cooked chicken, white beans, or lentils toward the end of cooking. If you want a vegan version, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream to keep it creamy while adhering to dietary restrictions.

Herbs such as dill or parsley can further enhance the flavor of the soup. Try adding them fresh at the end for a burst of freshness or blending in some dried herbs while cooking for depth. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can jazz it up wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated lunch or dinner, consider pairing this soup with a simple side salad or crusty bread. A nice slice of sourdough or a warm baguette complements the soup beautifully, allowing you to soak up every last drop. You could also top the soup with croutons for added crunch or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a salty bite.

Serving the soup in preheated bowls can help keep it warm longer, enhancing the dining experience. A wedge of lemon on each plate encourages diners to add an extra squeeze for a fresh finish. This also makes for a visually appealing presentation—the contrast of colors is sure to impress guests.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your soup turns out too thick, you can easily adjust the consistency by adding more vegetable broth or water until it reaches the desired thickness. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate; stirring occasionally will help avoid any sticking at the bottom.

Another common issue is a bland flavor. If you find this happening after blending, try adjusting with more salt, pepper, or an additional squeeze of lemon juice. Always taste as you go—this ensures a well-balanced final product.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the heavy cream or use a plant-based cream substitute.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well! Just leave out the cream and add it when reheating.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

A simple salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich pairs wonderfully with this soup!