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: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 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; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely adore making this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup! The way the zesty lemon brightens the rich creaminess of the spinach is simply delightful. Every time I make this soup, it transports me to a cozy kitchen where the aroma of fresh ingredients fills the air. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some greens into my meal. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, I’m always amazed by how a little bit of lemon can elevate the flavors so perfectly. It’s a comfort food that feels indulgent yet light!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:58:17.633Z

Every time I make this creamy soup, I experiment with the flavors. Recently, I decided to add a touch of garlic for an extra layer of depth, and it was a game changer. Using fresh lemon juice and a hint of zest not only brightens the dish but also balances the creaminess beautifully. The key is to introduce the lemon gradually, tasting as you go, so it complements rather than overwhelms.

I love serving this soup with a slice of crusty bread, which soaks up all the delicious flavors. On cold days, it warms me from the inside out, making it a regular in my kitchen. I can still remember the first time I brought this to a family gathering, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A bright and zesty twist that enhances the rich flavors
Creamy texture that's both comforting and satisfying
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

A Deep Dive into Texture

The texture of this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is key to its irresistible appeal. When blending, make sure to puree the soup thoroughly to achieve a velvety consistency. If you desire a bit more body, consider leaving a portion of the spinach unblended to create a delightful contrast. The heavy cream not only adds richness but also gives the soup a glossy finish, making it visually appealing when served in bowls.

Be careful not to overheat the cream once it's stirred into the soup. Heat it gently on low to prevent curdling, which can occur if the soup boils after the cream is added. This step is crucial for maintaining that luscious creamy texture that marries beautifully with the bright lemon flavor.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role. The fresh spinach provides a nutrient-packed base, while the lemon juice and zest create a refreshing brightness that cuts through the creaminess. If fresh spinach isn't available, you can substitute with frozen spinach; just remember to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess liquid in the soup.

For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This will slightly alter the overall creaminess but will still yield a delightful soup. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, swap in coconut milk, which complements the lemon surprisingly well and adds a unique flavor twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is not just great fresh; it also makes for an excellent make-ahead meal. After cooking, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to prevent separation of the cream.

If you plan to freeze the soup, consider leaving out the cream until just before serving. This helps maintain the best texture upon reheating. Once thawed, you can reheat the soup and stir in the cream just before serving for that fresh, creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
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
Fresh parsley for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a wonderful bowl of soup:

Cook the Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the pot and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.

Pour in the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half, then stir back in.

Stir in Cream and Lemon

Return to low heat and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste, heating through for another 5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread!

Enjoy your Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup!

Pro Tips

To make this soup lighter, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a low-fat cream alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad, making it a satisfying meal. For a touch of elegance, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese. These toppings enhance the flavors and add a lovely visual element to your presentation.

Consider enjoying your soup as a starter for a cozy dinner party. It sets a delightful tone for the meal, especially when accompanied by warm, artisanal bread. As an added flourish, you could even serve the soup in small cups as an hors d'oeuvre, allowing guests to taste the vibrant flavors in a bite-sized format.

Flavor Variations

While the lemon is the star in this recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with additional flavors. A pinch of nutmeg can provide an intriguing warmth, while a few red pepper flakes will add a hint of heat, perfect for those who like a bit of spice. You could also incorporate herbs such as thyme or dill for a herbal note that complements the lemon.

If you’re looking to enhance the protein content, adding cooked chicken or chickpeas provides a heartier dish. Simply stir in the cooked protein towards the end of cooking to heat through, ensuring it doesn't break apart during blending. This makes the soup not only more filling but also boosts its nutritional value.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the pot.

→ How can I make it vegan?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth. You can also skip the cream for a lighter version.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a sandwich for a complete meal.