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 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely adore whipping up this creamy lemon spinach soup, especially on chilly days. The vibrant flavors of fresh spinach paired with a zesty lemon lift my spirits and warm my heart. It’s quick to prepare and is a delightful way to sneak in some greens. I love how this soup can go from simple ingredients to a gourmet experience with just a few added touches. Perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner, it truly is a dish I turn to time and again.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:40:22.313Z

When I first tried my hand at making lemon spinach soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how the fresh lemon brightened the earthy spinach. I learned that sautéing the spinach just before blending enhances the flavor profile, giving the soup a rich depth I hadn't anticipated. Each spoonful bursts with freshness!

After some experimenting, I discovered that adding a bit of cream at the end gives it that silky, indulgent texture that takes it to a whole new level. This soup has become a go-to in my home, whether I’m entertaining or simply enjoying it for myself.

        Why You'll Love This Soup
        Heartwarming creaminess with a citrus kick
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Packed with nutrients from fresh spinach

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

In this creamy lemon spinach soup, the freshness of the ingredients plays a crucial role in elevating the overall flavor. Using fresh spinach not only enhances the nutritional value but also contributes a vibrant color and taste that frozen alternatives can’t match. When preparing this soup, be sure to select bright green, crisp spinach leaves. They should be free from wilting or yellowing, ensuring a fresh flavor that will shine through the finished dish.

The lemon juice is another star ingredient that adds a bright, zesty contrast to the creamy texture of the soup. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred over bottled versions because it has a more pronounced flavor and aroma. I recommend tasting and adjusting the lemon juice just before serving; a little extra can make a significant difference in balancing the creaminess with acidity.

Blending Techniques for Perfect Creaminess

Achieving the perfect silky texture is key to this soup's success. When blending, if using an immersion blender, keep it submerged to avoid splattering and ensure an even consistency. Blend until the soup is completely smooth, which typically takes about 30 seconds to 1 minute. If using a traditional blender, allow the soup to cool slightly and blend in batches, filling the blender no more than halfway to prevent overflow. This step is essential for a creamy texture that won’t have any chunky bits.

If you're looking for extra creaminess, feel free to add a bit more heavy cream, but start with the cup recommended in the recipe. Remember, heavy cream adds richness but also significantly increases the fat content. For a lighter variation, you can substitute half of the cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy alternative, which will still bring creaminess without all the calories.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To enhance the dining experience, consider serving this soup with a crusty bread or a side salad topped with light vinaigrette. The combination of the warm, creamy soup with something crunchy balances out the meal beautifully. Additionally, croutons or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top can add a delightful texture contrast and elevate your presentation.

Feel free to experiment with variations as well. For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or white beans to the soup during the last few minutes of simmering. Alternatively, for an earthy twist, incorporate some sautéed mushrooms with the onions. The key is to keep the flavor profile bright and fresh, ensuring that each ingredient complements the creamy and citrusy base.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious soup.

Ingredients

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

These ingredients will come together beautifully to create a creamy and flavorful soup.

Steps to Prepare

Follow these easy steps to make your creamy lemon spinach soup!

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

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

Add Spinach and Broth

Stir in the chopped spinach and sauté just until wilted. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender for the same result.

Finish with Cream and Lemon

Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to warm through for another 5 minutes.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with lemon wedges. Enjoy it warm!

Now you've created a luscious soup that will impress your family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a lighter option, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, adding some croutons on top adds a delightful crunch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy lemon spinach soup can be easily made ahead of time. Prepare the soup up to the blending stage and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method keeps the flavor intact while making it a convenient option for busy days.

If you're considering freezing the soup, it's best to do so before adding the heavy cream. Allow the blended soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. This sauce base can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat, then stir in the cream just before serving for the best texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup is too thick after blending, simply stir in some additional vegetable broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Be cautious not to overdo it; add small amounts at a time. Conversely, if the soup is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken up. This can also concentrate the flavors further.

For a soup that is too tangy, which can happen based on the acidity of the lemons, you can balance it out by adding a touch more cream or even a small amount of sugar. This can mellow the sharpness while maintaining the overall flavor profile intact. Always taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Dietary Adaptations

For those following a dairy-free lifestyle, the heavy cream can be swapped with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream for an equally rich texture. Be mindful that these substitutes may add their distinctive flavor, so always adjust the seasonings to complement them. Additionally, using a vegetable broth that is labeled as low-sodium can help control the salt levels in the soup without sacrificing taste.

If you're looking to make this soup vegan, not only can you replace the heavy cream, but you can also modify the broth to a vegetable stock made from fresh herbs and veggies. This adds depth while keeping the entire dish plant-based and wholesome. Use coconut milk for a slight sweetness that contrasts nicely with the lemon's acidity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

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

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The soup can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently before serving.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This creamy lemon spinach soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free. Always check your broth and cream labels just to be sure.