Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, 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; Crusty bread for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love whipping up this creamy lemon spinach soup whenever I want something both comforting and refreshing. The combination of bright lemon and earthy spinach creates a harmony that's perfect for any season. Truthfully, I've always been a fan of vibrant soups, and this one stands out with its rich flavors and luscious texture. With every spoonful, I feel like I'm nourishing my body while indulging in a delightful treat. It's easy to make, and can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to for busy days.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:19:17.381Z

When I first experimented with this creamy lemon spinach soup, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could blend into a dish that feels gourmet. The vibrant greens and the zesty lemon truly uplift the soup, creating a perfect balance that I've come to adore. I discovered that by quickly sautéing the spinach, I could retain its bright color and nutrients while crafting a silky base for the soup.

Another key trick is adding a splash of cream right at the end; it transforms the soup into a luscious delight that pairs beautifully with crusty bread. I can’t recommend it enough for cozy evenings or as an elegant starter for dinner parties!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor that elevates the dish
Creamy texture that warms the soul
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Fresh spinach is the star of this soup, bringing a wealth of nutrients while contributing a lovely green color. When selecting spinach, look for vibrant, crisp leaves without any yellowing. Alternatively, you can substitute with frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your soup. The earthiness of spinach pairs beautifully with the zesty brightness of lemon, making it essential to use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor impact.

Heavy cream is what gives this soup its signature creamy texture, but if you're looking for lighter options, you can replace it with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the flavor and texture slightly, but can still produce a deliciously warm soup. Remember that the cream also helps to round out the dish's brightness, so balance is key when swapping ingredients.

Perfecting the Technique

When sautéing the onions and garlic, ensure that your heat is medium; too high can lead to burning the garlic, which can overpower the soup's flavors. Stirring frequently will help prevent sticking and promote even cooking. You want the onions to be translucent and tender, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. When you add the spinach, keep an eye on it—cook just until wilted to preserve its vibrant green color and nutritional benefits, usually around 2 minutes.

Using an immersion blender is not only convenient but ensures a smooth consistency without the hassle of transferring hot soup to a blender. If you don't have one, be cautious when blending in batches; allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to reduce the risk of splattering. After blending, mixing in the cream over low heat prevents it from curdling, maintaining a beautiful, silky texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, 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
Crusty bread for serving

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

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

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Spinach

Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, which will take about 2 minutes. Ensure the spinach is fully coated in the oil and flavors from the onion and garlic.

Add the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Blend and Add Cream

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you don't have one, transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Once smooth, stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Season and Serve

Taste and season the soup with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

Enjoy your homemade soup that warms both the belly and the soul!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a tablespoon of Parmesan cheese when blending the soup.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy lemon spinach soup is a fantastic candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring frequently to keep the cream from separating. If the soup thickens too much while sitting, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up again.

If you're looking to meal-prep, you can prepare the base of the soup (without the cream and lemon) and freeze it. Once you're ready to serve, simply reheat the soup, blend it to your desired smoothness, then stir in the cream and lemon juice fresh. This method retains the soup's brightness and freshness upon serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful serving experience, consider topping each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a few lemon zest curls for an added zesty finish. Pairing the soup with crusty bread not only makes for a hearty meal but also serves as a perfect tool for sopping up those last flavorful spoonfuls. A light, crisp salad side with a similar citrus dressing can enhance the meal's refreshing quality.

If you want to elevate your soup further, try adding protein such as shredded chicken, chickpeas, or cannellini beans, which not only transform the dish into a more filling option but also complement the creamy base well. Moreover, a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese can introduce an exciting tangy element to the soup, enhancing its flavor profile.

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 well before adding it to the pot.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a slice of crusty bread for dipping.