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 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup whenever I crave something fresh and comforting. The bright flavors of lemon intertwined with the earthy taste of spinach create a symphony that warms the soul. I find that the creaminess adds depth, making it a perfect companion to crusty bread. Preparing this soup is quick and easy; it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Each spoonful is a burst of flavor that brightens up my day, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:52:14.275Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how the bright acidity of lemon could elevate the greens. I often add a splash of lemon juice to most dishes, but the combination in this soup is truly special. I suggest using fresh spinach because it retains a vibrant color and texture that frozen spinach cannot match.

As I perfected the recipe, I discovered that simmering the ingredients together allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Blender soups can sometimes be daunting, but this method is straightforward. Remember to blend only until smooth—over-blending can make it too airy, and I prefer a bit of texture in my soup!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Creamy texture that adds indulgence without guilt
Quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is undoubtedly the fresh spinach. It contributes not only a vibrant green color but also a wealth of nutrients, including iron and vitamins A and C. When selecting spinach, look for leaves that are crisp and dark green. Wilted or yellowed leaves can impart a bitter taste to the soup, so be sure to wash and inspect them before use.

Lemon juice and zest bring a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream. Fresh lemons are ideal here; bottled lemon juice lacks the same bright flavor profile. When zesting, be careful to only remove the yellow part of the rind—when you hit the white pith, it becomes bitter. The right balance of acidity is key to elevating this soup's flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Sautéing the onions and garlic is a crucial step. Aim for a medium heat to avoid burning, which can lead to a bitter flavor base. Cooking until the onions are translucent will unlock their sweet natural sugars, while the garlic should just be fragrant—about one minute—so it retains its delicate flavor. Overcooking it can lead to a harsh taste in your soup.

When blending, using an immersion blender allows for a smooth consistency without the mess of transferring hot soup to a countertop blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend just half of the soup, then stir it back in. Remember to let the soup cool slightly before blending to reduce the risk of splatter.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a light salad or on top of a grain bowl. Consider drizzling a bit of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of sour cream for added richness just before serving. For added texture, top with toasted pine nuts or croutons for a satisfying crunch.

If you wish to make this soup vegan, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream for creaminess. Additionally, substituting vegetable broth with a robust mushroom broth can enhance the flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with adding other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard, which can offer their unique tastes and nutrients.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful bowl of soup.

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for a smoother experience!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to make your creamy soup effortlessly.

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add the Spinach and Broth

Add the chopped spinach to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to wilt. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Blend and Finish the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread on the side!

Serve this beautiful soup hot for the best flavor experience!

Pro Tips

For added richness, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut cream. This gives a beautiful tropical twist to the soup while keeping it creamy and luscious. Always taste your soup before serving, as the amount of salt may vary depending on the broth used.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. Prepare the soup up to the blending stage, then let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully after a day in the fridge, making it even more delicious.

To store leftovers, keep the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture. Because the soup contains cream, avoid boiling it after reheating to prevent separation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup turns out too thick, adding a bit more vegetable broth while reheating can adjust the consistency to your liking. Conversely, if it’s too thin, consider blending in a small, cooked potato or adding an extra splash of cream to thicken it naturally.

In case the soup is too sour from the lemon, a pinch of sugar can counterbalance the acidity. Always taste as you go, especially when adding acidic ingredients, to ensure you achieve the desired flavor without overpowering the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?

While fresh spinach is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen spinach. Just ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before adding.

→ How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream for a vegan-friendly version.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.