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: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I set out to make a comforting yet refreshing soup, I stumbled upon this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup. It’s a delightful blend of vibrant spinach, zesty lemon, and creamy goodness that always hits the spot. I love the way the flavors come together seamlessly, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and healthy. Each spoonful is a burst of freshness, making it the perfect choice for a light lunch or dinner. Trust me, once you try it, this soup will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:16:12.205Z

Making this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup was a fun experiment in flavor balancing. I wanted a soup that embodied the essence of spring, and the bright, tangy lemon did just that. Pairing it with the earthy flavor of fresh spinach created a beautiful harmony that I couldn’t resist. I also discovered that adding a hint of garlic takes the flavor profile to a whole new level, enhancing the overall taste without overwhelming the freshness of the spinach.

After several trials, I found that blending the soup until velvety smooth not only made the texture irresistible but also intensified the flavors. Don’t skip the lemon zest at the end; it adds a wonderful aromatic note that elevates the soup from ordinary to extraordinary. Serve it warm and enjoy the compliments!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and tangy flavor that refreshes your palate
Creamy texture that’s both comforting and satisfying
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

The foundation of this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup lies in using fresh ingredients. Fresh spinach, with its vibrant green color, not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes essential nutrients and a brighter flavor. When selecting spinach, look for leaves that are deep green and crisp, avoiding any that appear wilted or yellowed. The fresher your spinach, the more pronounced the flavor, making your soup a delightfully refreshing dish.

Similarly, using high-quality vegetable broth is crucial to the overall flavor profile of this soup. A rich, well-seasoned broth can elevate the soup, adding depth and complexity. If you're short on time, store-bought broth is a great option, but make sure to taste it beforehand, as salt levels can vary widely. If making your own, consider adding herbs or roasted vegetables for a more robust flavor.

Blending Techniques for a Smooth Finish

When blending the soup, achieving a smooth consistency is essential for that creamy texture. If using a regular blender, remember to allow the soup to cool slightly before blending. Fill the blender no more than halfway, and always remove the center cap from the lid, covering it with a kitchen towel to prevent steam from building up. This will allow for a safe and efficient blend, creating a silky finish.

For those using an immersion blender, simply immerse it in the pot and blend until the soup is uniform. I recommend moving the blender around to ensure that all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Be cautious with the heat, as blending too aggressively while the soup is still bubbling can splash the hot liquid, so keep it at a gentle simmer.

Ingredients

For the Soup

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

These ingredients will help you create a delicious and refreshing soup in no time!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add the Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the pot and cook until wilted, approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Blend the Soup

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and carefully blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender.

Incorporate Cream and Lemon

Return the soup to the heat and stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste, heat gently, and serve.

Now your creamy lemon spinach soup is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper. This soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great advantages of this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is that it can be made ahead of time. Prepare the soup entirely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to avoid separating the cream. If the soup appears too thick, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Just note that the texture might change slightly, so stirring well after reheating is key.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it with various toppings. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick, while toasted pine nuts can introduce a lovely crunch. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a dollop of crème fraîche or a splash of extra lemon juice right before serving.

If you're looking to mix it up, you can incorporate additional vegetables for added nutrition. Carrots and celery can be sautéed alongside the onions for a heartier broth. Alternatively, try stirring in cooked quinoa or chicken for a protein boost. With a few adjustments, this base recipe can transform to suit a variety of palates and dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water from the frozen spinach before adding it to the soup.

→ How long will the soup keep in the fridge?

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

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use vegetable broth to ensure it's vegan-friendly.

→ Is it possible to add other vegetables?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition and texture.