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, packed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Croutons for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, especially on chilly days. The combination of fresh spinach with zesty lemon gives a vibrant twist to a traditional creamy soup. I find that using fresh herbs elevates the flavor, bringing a brightness that makes this dish stand out. Whether for a comforting lunch or a light dinner, every spoonful feels like a warm embrace. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to whip up and delightful to share with friends and family!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-18T10:58:04.459Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining lemon with spinach, I had my doubts. However, after a few experiments, I was amazed at how beautifully the flavors complemented each other. The creamy base provides a great canvas for the fresh spinach and the lemon brightens the entire dish. The trick is to add the lemon juice just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor!

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. It’s great as a light lunch or as a starter for dinner. I love serving it with a crusty piece of bread for dipping, which perfectly balances the creamy texture of the soup. You can also easily adapt it based on what you have on hand!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that refreshes the palate
Creamy and comforting texture that's satisfying
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

Key Techniques for Success

Blending the soup smoothly is crucial for achieving that luscious creamy texture. An immersion blender is my go-to for convenience, but if you’re transferring the soup to a traditional blender, allow it to cool slightly first to prevent hot splashes. Blend in small batches, filling the blender only halfway to ensure even blending without overflow.

When sautéing the onions, aim for a soft and translucent finish. This aromatic base enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup. If your onions start to brown, reduce the heat slightly to avoid a bitter taste, and continue cooking until they are just tender. This step sets the foundation for a rich and comforting soup.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh spinach is essential in this recipe, as it contributes not only color but also a delicate sweetness that balances the acidity of the lemon. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw it beforehand and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the pot.

Heavy cream provides a rich texture that complements the soup's lightness, but if you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be a suitable substitute. Alternatively, for a dairy-free version, try coconut cream; it will impart a lovely hint of coconut flavor while still maintaining a creamy consistency.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. You can enhance each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. Croutons bring a delightful crunch that contrasts with the velvety soup—try using homemade croutons for extra flavor.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Just ensure that you leave some room in the container, as the soup will expand as it freezes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious soup!

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups fresh spinach, packed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Croutons for serving

Now that you have everything you need, let's get started on the soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the most delicious Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup.

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Spinach and Broth

Add the fresh spinach to the pot and cook until wilted. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.

Finish with Cream and Lemon

Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently, but do not bring to a boil.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and add croutons if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup!

Enjoy your homemade soup and experiment with toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg when blending the soup. It enhances the creaminess and brings warmth to each bowl.

Flavor Variations

For those who enjoy the heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can invigorate the flavor without overwhelming the lemony brightness. Alternatively, experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill to complement the flavors of the spinach and lemon. Adding these at the end of cooking will preserve their freshness.

You could also customize the soup by incorporating other vegetables. Adding cooked potatoes can create a heartier dish; they will also contribute a creamy texture when blended. Carrots or celery can enhance the base flavors while providing added nutrition—just ensure that they are diced finely for even cooking.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your soup is too tangy after adding the lemon juice, a small spoonful of sugar can help balance the acidity, enhancing the overall flavor without making it sweet. It's all about achieving harmony; small adjustments can make a significant difference when it comes to flavor profiles.

In case your soup appears too thick, simply thin it out with a bit more vegetable broth or water until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to allow some excess liquid to evaporate, thickening the soup naturally.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative, and use vegetable broth that's certified vegan.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen. Just leave out the heavy cream and add it when reheating. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

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

→ How can I add protein to this soup?

You can add cooked chicken, white beans, or lentils to the soup for an added protein boost.