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 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that creates a warming and satisfying dish. The vibrant green color brightens up any meal, while the creamy texture and zesty lemon elevate the humble spinach to something truly special. I often enjoy it as a quick lunch or light dinner, served with crusty bread for dipping. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, proving that comfort food can be healthy too!

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:17:03.079Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, I aimed to create a dish that was both nourishing and enjoyable. The combination of fresh spinach with the tangy lemon was an experiment that truly paid off! The secret to the creaminess lies in blending the soup until it’s velvety smooth, which makes a huge difference.

I've learned that using fresh ingredients, especially organic spinach, enhances the flavor significantly. Additionally, the lemon zest adds a refreshing aroma, making it a delightful experience with every spoonful. It's also a fantastic way to sneak in more greens!

        Why You'll Love This Soup
        Bright and tangy flavor that awakens your taste buds
Creamy texture that comforts and satisfies
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any weeknight

      

Understanding the Flavor Profile

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup achieves a remarkable balance of flavors, primarily grounded in the savory base of sautéed onion and garlic. The aromatics are key to building depth in the soup, allowing the freshness of the spinach and zingy lemon to shine through. The bright acidity of the lemon juice cuts through the cream, preventing the soup from becoming cloyingly rich. When seasoned properly, the salt enhances not just the soup's overall flavor but also highlights the natural sweetness of the sautéed onion.

Opting for fresh spinach is vital for achieving that vibrant green color and delicate flavor that define this dish. While frozen spinach can be a convenient substitute, it often lacks the fresh 'green' taste; if you must use frozen, ensure you thaw and squeeze out excess moisture to keep the soup from becoming watery. Remember to add the fresh spinach just until it wilts, which keeps its bright color intact and prevents it from losing its essential nutrients.

My Favorite Cooking Tips

For blending the soup, an immersion blender is the most practical tool because it allows you to blend directly in the pot, minimizing mess and the need to transfer hot soup. If you use a countertop blender instead, do so in small batches, ensuring the lid is vented slightly to prevent steam buildup, which can cause hot soup to splatter. Aim for a silky, smooth texture, and if you prefer a bit of texture, you can blend only half the soup and leave the rest chunky.

When incorporating the heavy cream, consider using half-and-half or coconut cream as lighter alternatives, particularly if you're looking for a dairy-free option. The richness of cream is essential for mouthfeel, but the lemon zest and juice should still be the stars here, so adjust to taste. Starting with less cream and allowing the flavors to develop will let you gauge the perfect balance of creaminess and tang.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything prepared before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Spinach and Broth

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring it to a simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer it to a countertop blender in batches.

Add Cream and Seasoning

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

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, adding a sprinkle of lemon zest on top if desired for garnish.

Don’t forget to enjoy a slice of crusty bread with your soup!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg before serving. It complements the creaminess beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture. If the soup appears too thick after refrigeration, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to achieve the desired consistency.

For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for about two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Again, adding a splash of liquid when reheating may be necessary to restore creaminess after freezing.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this soup alongside crusty bread or a refreshing side salad for a hearty meal. You can also accompany it with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or croutons on top for added texture. For an extra burst of flavor, a few thin lemon slices or a dollop of pesto can transform the presentation and taste, making it a bit more gourmet.

If you’re looking to elevate this soup for special occasions, consider serving it in small, pre-chilled bowls as an appetizer. Garnish each bowl with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for color and flavor contrast. This can make the humble soup feel elegant and restaurant-worthy, perfect for impressing guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream for a vegan version.

→ How long can I store the leftover soup?

You can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, it freeze well! Just make sure to leave out the cream until you reheat it for a smoother texture.

→ What can I serve with the soup?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.