Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated lemon zest for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meal Delights

When I'm looking for a comforting yet vibrant dish, I often turn to my creamy lemon spinach soup. The balance of tangy lemon and fresh spinach creates a delightful flavor profile that truly energizes me. It's also a breeze to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight meal. I love adding a touch of cream for richness, which enhances the soup’s silky texture. This dish not only satisfies my cravings but also serves as a nutritious option that I feel great about enjoying any day!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:34:12.833Z

I've experimented with many soups, but this creamy lemon spinach soup has stolen my heart. The bright citrusy flavor of lemon combined with the earthiness of spinach makes for a delectable combination that nourishes the soul. I remember the first time I made it on a rainy day; it instantly lifted my spirits.

One essential tip I have discovered is to add the lemon juice just before serving to retain its freshness and zing. I also prefer sautéing the garlic in olive oil to build a rich flavor base that complements the creamy broth. This method truly highlights the best flavors!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and flavorful lemon notes that brighten your day
Creamy texture that makes it feel indulgent yet healthy
Quick preparation for a delicious weeknight dinner

      

The Role of Spinach

Fresh spinach is the star ingredient in this creamy lemon spinach soup, providing both vibrant color and robust nutrition. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, it elevates this dish into a healthful choice. When selecting spinach, opt for vibrant, tender leaves, as they will cook down more easily and impart a sweeter flavor. Frozen spinach could be used in a pinch; however, it may alter the texture slightly, making the soup less smooth.

To ensure your spinach retains its bright green color, add it towards the end of cooking and avoid overcooking. You'll want it to become just wilted; this typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a dull appearance and may mute some of the fresh flavors that make this soup so refreshing.

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

The addition of heavy cream is what gives this soup its inviting, rich texture. When you stir in the cream after blending, the soup becomes silken and luxurious. If you're looking for a lighter option, replace half of the heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Just keep in mind that using these substitutes may impart additional flavors.

It's also crucial to blend the soup thoroughly—an immersion blender works great for this, allowing you to blend directly in the pot without messy transfers. Aim for a fine, smooth consistency that feels velvety on the palate. If you prefer a bit of texture, consider reserving a few spinach leaves to fold in after blending.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Don't skip the garnish; it not only enhances the appearance but also adds a burst of flavor. The combination of grated lemon zest will give an uplifting citrus note that complements the creamy base. For added texture and a wholesome crunch, top the soup with toasted pine nuts or croutons before serving. These toppings contrast beautifully with the smooth velvety soup.

Serving this soup with crusty bread or a light salad makes it a complete meal. I often pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, which adds freshness and balances the creaminess of the soup. For meal prep, this soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and it freezes well too—just ensure that it’s cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful soup:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated lemon zest for garnish

Make sure everything is prepared before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy lemon spinach soup:

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add Spinach

Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Pour in Broth

Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend & Season

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a regular blender. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated lemon zest before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy lemon spinach soup, perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredient Tips

The use of fresh ingredients is key in achieving the vibrant flavors of this soup. When choosing lemons, look for ones that feel heavy for their size with bright, glossy skin—this indicates juiciness. The juice and zest both play crucial roles; the juice brings acidity to balance the creaminess, while the zest enhances the lemony aroma and adds a pop of color.

When selecting your broth, go for a high-quality vegetable broth that complements the other flavors. Homemade broth can elevate the taste significantly, but if you're short on time, opt for a low-sodium store-bought version. This way, you have more control over the seasoning of your soup—always taste before adding extra salt!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup turns out too thick, don't hesitate to adjust the consistency by gradually adding more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired viscosity. Keep stirring continuously as you add liquid, and allow it to simmer for a few minutes to ensure the flavors meld well after the adjustment.

Should you find the soup lacking in flavor, a sprinkle of salt or a splash of extra lemon juice can work wonders. Always remember to taste as you go; seasoning is often the key to elevating a simple soup into something spectacular. Also, if it's too acidic, a small pinch of sugar can balance out the flavors nicely.

Scaling and Variations

This creamy lemon spinach soup is easily scalable, so feel free to double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a pot large enough to accommodate the increased volume and adjust cooking times accordingly. Typically, the simmering stage will remain the same, but blending may take a bit longer depending on the amount.

For a twist, consider adding other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms for earthiness or a handful of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness. You could also mix in protein sources such as cooked chicken or white beans to make the soup more filling without sacrificing its delicate flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just ensure it's thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding it to the pot.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan cream alternative, and use vegetable broth.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with grilled cheese sandwiches, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.