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 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, cleaned; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup because it combines the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach with the zing of lemon, creating a comforting yet refreshing dish. The smooth texture is both satisfying and soothing, perfect for cozy nights in or light lunches. Each bowl is packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. I often pair this soup with a crispy baguette for a simple and delightful meal. Trust me, once you've tried this recipe, you'll find yourself reaching for it time and again!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:04:27.185Z

When I first made this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, I was amazed by how simple yet delicious it turned out. I meticulously combined sautéed onions and garlic with fresh spinach, letting the greens wilt perfectly before adding in the broth. The addition of lemon juice right at the end elevated the flavors to a delightful tang, refreshing the palate with every spoonful.

One of the key tips I learned through trial and error is to blend the soup until completely smooth. This creates a luxurious texture that makes the soup feel indulgent. I often add a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess and serve it warm with some crusty bread!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up your day
Creamy and smooth texture that's utterly comforting
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Spinach

Fresh spinach is the star ingredient in this soup, providing not only vibrant color but also a wealth of nutrients. When cooked, spinach wilts down significantly, which means you can incorporate a large quantity without overwhelming the dish. Aim for fresh leaves that are deep green and free from blemishes. If you're using frozen spinach, you can substitute about 1 cup of thawed and well-drained spinach, but the texture may be slightly different.

Spinach also has a naturally earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the bright notes of lemon. To maximize its flavor, ensure you cook it just until wilted, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture that detracts from the creamy consistency of the soup.

Cream Alternatives

While heavy cream gives this soup its signature richness, there are several alternatives if you're looking to lighten it up or make it dairy-free. Coconut cream or cashew cream can provide similar creaminess while imparting a unique flavor profile. To make cashew cream, soak raw cashews in water for a few hours, then blend with a little water until smooth. Start by using ½ cup for the same creamy effect, adjusting to taste.

For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even substitute some or all of the cream with unsweetened almond milk. However, keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and mouthfeel slightly. If using almond milk, add a bit of nutritional yeast for a savory kick that mimics the richness of heavy cream.

Storing and Serving Tips

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is perfect for batch cooking and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation of the cream. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help loosen it up.

Serving this soup alongside a crispy baguette or a fresh salad makes for a harmonious meal. For added texture, consider topping each bowl with toasted croutons or a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese. A dash of freshly cracked black pepper or a twist of lemon over the top can enhance the flavors even further.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup.

Soup Ingredients

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the 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 becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add the Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Mix in the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. You may also transfer to a blender in batches if you prefer.

Finish with Cream and Lemon

Return the soup to low heat, add the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try topping the soup with croutons or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your soup ends up too thick, simply whisk in additional vegetable broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can thicken it by blending in a bit more spinach or adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water). Heat gently until it thickens, being careful not to let it boil too vigorously.

Another common issue is curdling when you add the cream. To avoid this, ensure that your soup is on low heat and not boiling when incorporating the cream. It’s best to temper the cream first by mixing in a small amount of hot soup before adding it back into the pot.

Flavor Variations

Experimenting with herbs can elevate this soup to new flavor heights. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can be blended in right before serving to add complexity. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat if desired. For a smoky undertone, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika during the sautéing stage.

You can also play with the acidity level. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, add an extra squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine at the end of cooking. This brightens the dish and complements the creaminess beautifully.

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?

Substitute the heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use vegetable broth for a completely dairy-free option.

→ Can I store leftovers?

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

→ How can I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water or continue to simmer it to reduce the liquid.