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: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely adore making Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and nourishing. The combination of fresh spinach, bright lemon, and creamy texture creates a delightful balance that never fails to lift my spirits. As I simmer the ingredients together, the kitchen fills with a wonderful aroma that only adds to the anticipation of enjoying a satisfying bowl of this soup. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that never ceases to impress both my family and guests alike.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:16:15.079Z

Last weekend, I decided to experiment with seasonal ingredients and ended up creating this luscious soup. I initially thought about making a classic spinach soup, but I wanted a refreshing twist, so I added lemon zest and juice for brightness. The result was nothing short of amazing! The tangy notes cut through the creaminess perfectly, and I’m excited to share the experience of making it. It’s a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

One tip I found essential is to blend the soup until it’s completely smooth. This not only enhances the creamy texture but also helps the flavors meld beautifully. I like to serve it hot with a crusty piece of bread for dipping. Each spoonful is a delightful combination of flavors that warms the soul and brings a smile to my face!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist to the creamy soup.
Packed with nutrient-rich spinach for a healthy boost.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any weeknight dinner.

      

Mastering the Creaminess

To achieve the perfect creamy consistency in your soup, choosing the right heavy cream is key. Look for a product with at least 36% fat content for the best results, as this creates a luscious texture. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk, which will add a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical flavor that pairs nicely with lemon.

When incorporating the heavy cream, make sure to lower the heat before adding it to avoid curdling. Stir gently once added to maintain the smooth texture. If you notice any curdling, you can blend the soup again to help re-emulsify it. Remember to add the cream last to help maintain its richness and prevent overcooking.

Balancing Flavors

The acidity from the lemon is crucial in enhancing the overall flavor profile of this soup. If you prefer a more pronounced lemon taste, feel free to increase the zest and juice up to 1.5 times the original amount. Be cautious though; too much lemon can overpower the delicate spinach flavor, so start with small increments and taste frequently.

Additionally, seasoning is vital. Don't shy away from salt and pepper, as they help bring out the soup’s natural flavors. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper can also add warmth and depth. Adjust the spices toward the end of cooking—this allows for fine-tuning without risking the soup’s creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create the Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before cooking to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Spinach and Broth

Stir in the chopped spinach and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until wilted. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.

Blend the Soup

Once the broth is simmering, use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender in batches.

Finish with Cream and Lemon

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

Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm with your favorite crusty bread!

This soup is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking. These spices enhance the overall taste and add a nice kick to the soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling of the cream. If the soup thickens in the fridge, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water can help restore its original consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can be frozen for up to three months if stored in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge before reheating it on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this soup with a side of crusty bread is always a hit. The bread not only complements the creamy texture but also provides a satisfying crunch. Consider toasting the bread lightly with a bit of olive oil and garlic for added flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or croutons can add a delightful finish and some texture on top.

For a more complete meal, pair the soup with a simple salad. A fresh mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Alternatively, adding cooked protein like shredded chicken or chickpeas can transform the soup into a heartier main dish, making it a nourishing option for lunch or dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the soup.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for this soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth to maintain the creamy texture.

→ How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can blend in a small amount of cooked potatoes or add a slurry made from cornstarch and water.

→ What can I serve with the soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple green salad.