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: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed; 1 medium potato, peeled and diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges; Fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making creamy lemon spinach soup on chilly days. The tangy lemon brightens the rich cream, creating a perfect balance of flavors that warms me from the inside out. As I blend the vibrant spinach into the soup, I can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. This recipe is easy to prepare, and it transforms simple ingredients into a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone in my family adores. Just a few steps and you're on your way to a delightful meal that feels indulgent yet nutritious.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:52:13.368Z

When I first tried making this creamy lemon spinach soup, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The key is starting with fresh spinach and a good homemade broth, which makes all the difference in flavor. As I simmer everything together, the lemon zest brightens the mixture and enhances the natural sweetness of the onions.

During my experimentation, I found that adding a touch of nutmeg not only elevates the creamy notes but also compliments the spinach perfectly. Each spoonful of this soup reminds me of garden-fresh ingredients and cozy lunches. I can barely resist going back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, citrusy flavor that refreshes your palate
Silky smooth texture that is incredibly comforting
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Maximizing Flavor Through Technique

The initial step of sautéing the onions and garlic is crucial for building flavor in your creamy lemon spinach soup. Aim for the onions to become translucent and soft, which typically takes around five minutes, as this softens their sharpness and releases natural sugars. This creates a rich base for the soup. Keep your heat at medium to prevent the garlic from burning, which can introduce a bitter taste. If you notice it starting to brown too quickly, immediately reduce the heat.

When incorporating the spinach, ensure that you don’t overcook it. The goal is to wilt the spinach just enough to retain its vibrant green color and nutrients, which usually takes about three minutes. Overcooking can lead to a dish that lacks freshness or vibrant color. If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pot after sautéing the vegetables, allowing the acidity to enhance the overall dish.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Using fresh spinach is key for achieving the best flavor and texture in this soup, as frozen spinach can lead to a slightly more watery consistency. If fresh spinach isn't available, you can substitute it with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard, but remember that they may require a slightly longer cooking time to become tender. In addition, if you're looking to make a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based alternative while still enjoying a creamy texture.

The lemon zest is an essential component of this recipe; it brings brightness and elevates the soup's flavor profile. If you're in need of a substitute, lime zest can work in a pinch, creating a different but still delightful citrusy kick. For those who have dietary restrictions, opting for a dairy-free cream will also work well, keeping the soup creamy while accommodating different lifestyles.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

For Garnishing

Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

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 an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Spinach and Potato

Add the diced potato and fresh spinach to the pot. Stir everything together and cook just until the spinach wilts, approximately 3 minutes.

Pour in the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potato is tender.

Blend to Creamy Perfection

Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a blender. Return soup to the pot.

Finish with Cream and Lemon

Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Heat gently until warmed through but do not boil. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley. Enjoy your creamy lemon spinach soup!

Pro Tips

For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a tablespoon of cream cheese before blending. This will enhance the richness without overwhelming the lemon flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This creamy lemon spinach soup is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy for lunch or dinner. To store, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, be sure to do so over low heat on the stovetop to avoid curdling the cream. Stir occasionally and make sure not to let it come to a boil, as this can alter the texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup. When properly sealed in freezer-safe containers, it can last up to three months. To reheat from frozen, let the soup thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then follow the same gentle reheating method as above. Keep in mind that the texture may slightly change after freezing, so you may want to add a splash of cream or broth during reheating to restore its creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, consider pairing your creamy lemon spinach soup with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad to create a satisfying meal. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top right before serving can add an exquisite touch of richness and depth. Alternatively, you could use croutons made from stale bread, lightly toasted with garlic powder and olive oil for added crunch and flavor.

For a delightful variation, you can incorporate other vegetables like diced carrots or peas during the cooking process to enhance the nutritional value and add more texture. Experimenting with spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper can also provide an interesting twist, introducing a gentle warmth or earthy undertone to the soup, making it even more comforting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the pot.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute, and use vegetable broth.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Fresh crusty bread or a simple side salad pairs beautifully with this creamy soup.

→ Can I store leftovers?

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