Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, packed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium potato, peeled and diced; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely adore this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup! The combination of vibrant spinach with the zesty kick of lemon creates a refreshing and satisfying dish. As a lover of creamy soups, I find this recipe not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to get my greens in. With every spoonful, you're met with a smooth richness that feels indulgent while still being nutritious. Whether it's for a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup will surely brighten your day!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:46:12.328Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, I knew I wanted a vibrant flavor that truly captured the essence of spring. I experimented with various herbs and spices before landing on this delightful combination of lemon and spinach. The lemon not only brightens the soup but also complements the creaminess of the base beautifully!

One crucial tip I learned along the way is to sauté your onions until they're golden. This step deepens the flavor and creates a more robust broth. The freshness of the spinach added at the last moment keeps the color bright and the nutrients intact, making each bowl not just a meal, but an experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and tangy flavor that refreshes the palate
Silky smooth texture from blending the soup to perfection
Packed with nutrients yet feels indulgent

      

The Role of Cream and Lemon

The heavy cream in this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is not just for richness; it also helps to balance the acidity of the lemon juice. This balance is essential because it brings forth the bright flavors of the soup without overwhelming your palate. If you prefer a lighter option, consider substituting the heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture and mouthfeel of the soup.

Lemon zest adds another layer of flavor, bringing a fragrant, aromatic quality that enhances the overall dish. A microplane is the best tool for zesting, allowing you to capture just the colored part of the peel without the bitter white pith underneath. For a more pronounced lemon flavor, add additional zest, or even a splash of lemon juice to suit your taste.

Perfecting Your Spinach

Fresh spinach is the star ingredient in this soup, offering not just vibrant color but also a wealth of nutrients. When involving spinach, be mindful not to overcook it; the leaves should just wilt in about 3 minutes so they retain their bright green color and nutritional value. Overcooking can lead to a duller color and a less appealing flavor. If you're dealing with slightly older spinach, consider giving it a quick rinse under cold water to revive it before using.

If you're looking for a different spin, you can easily swap out the spinach for other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just note that these greens may require a slightly longer cooking time, about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and fully incorporated into the soup.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it up to three days in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens after cooling, just add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. This soup can be frozen for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator for quicker cooking, then reheat it on the stove while stirring, ensuring it heats through evenly.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach, packed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium potato, peeled and diced
1 cup heavy cream
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to wash the spinach thoroughly before use.

Instructions

Sauté the Base

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

Add Potatoes and Broth

Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Incorporate Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes. Remove the pot from heat.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it is completely smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender.

Finish with Cream and Lemon

Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, with a sprinkle of additional lemon zest if desired.

Enjoy your delicious creamy lemon spinach soup with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any dairy-free alternative.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup ends up too thick, this can easily be remedied by adding a little more vegetable broth or cream until you achieve the desired consistency. On the other hand, if it's too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors without adding any additional ingredients.

Taste is everything in this recipe. If you find the soup to be too tangy from the lemon, a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors. Conversely, if it tastes bland, a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the overall profile. Adjusting these elements to your preference ensures every bowl is delicious.

Serving Suggestions

To accompany your Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, consider a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of croutons can add a delightful crunch if desired. For a gourmet touch, finish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper on top.

For a heartier meal, you could serve the soup with a protein addition, such as grilled chicken or shrimp. Simply grill or sauté the protein separately and serve it on top or alongside the soup for a satisfying combination.

Variations to Try

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or dill. These herbs pair beautifully with spinach and lemon and can be added during the sauté step for an aromatic experience. A teaspoon of dried herbs or a few sprigs of fresh can enhance the soup’s flavor profile.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can give the soup a delightful kick. Just add these spices gradually while blending or after blending, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect level of spice for your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the soup.

→ How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?

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

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with a crusty loaf of bread or a fresh salad.