The Best Lentil Soup with Spinach Recipe – Hearty, Healthy, and Easy to Make!

A Hearty, Nutritious Soup for Every Season

Looking for a comforting, healthy meal that will keep you full and satisfied? Lentil Soup with Spinach is the perfect dish to make any day feel special. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and a wealth of vitamins, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly nourishing. The earthy lentils combined with the vibrant spinach create a hearty, flavorful soup that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week.

This recipe is simple yet full of layers of flavor, making it a favorite for those seeking a wholesome, vegetarian meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this lentil soup is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Ready to make a bowl of comfort? Let’s get started!

Ingredients List: What You’ll Need to Make This Healthy Soup

Here’s a breakdown of all the ingredients needed to create the perfect Lentil Soup with Spinach:

For the Soup:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian version)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional, for a tangy burst of flavor)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• A drizzle of olive oil
• A dollop of yogurt or sour cream (for non-vegan version)

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Lentil Soup with Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. In a spacious pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric (if using). Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute until aromatic.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

3. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Step 3: Add the Spinach

5. Add the chopped spinach and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the spinach wilts and becomes tender.
6. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice to taste.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

7. Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, garnish with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a spoonful of yogurt.
8. Serve hot and enjoy the warmth and goodness of this delicious and nutritious soup!

Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

• Add More Vegetables: For extra nutrition, feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the soup.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables.
• Use Canned Lentils: For a quicker version, you can use canned lentils. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the soup.
• Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, leaving some lentils intact for texture.

How to Serve and Present Lentil Soup with Spinach

• Presentation Tips: Serve the soup in large, rustic bowls with a piece of crusty bread on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation.
• Pairing Suggestions: This soup pairs wonderfully with a light salad, whole-grain bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. It also complements white wine or a cold glass of sparkling water with lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This lentil soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag for storage. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove before serving.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 12g
• Sugar: 6g

This soup is a great source of fiber, iron, and vitamin A, making it a filling and nourishing option for any meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing the Soup:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• To reheat, heat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened, add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• You can also heat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Additional Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: This recipe is naturally vegan. However, for a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast or a drizzle of tahini for creaminess.
• Add More Protein: For an added protein boost, try adding chickpeas or another type of bean to the soup.
• Coconut Milk Twist: For a creamy texture, substitute some of the vegetable broth with coconut milk.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Broccoli Cheese Soup 
• Best Smoked Queso
• Tomato Soup Recipe

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Hearty Lentil Soup with Spinach

This Lentil Soup with Spinach is a wholesome, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that will keep you full and nourished. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for lunches throughout the week, this soup is as versatile as it is delicious. Try it out and let us know how you enjoyed it in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media to share your beautiful bowls of soup!

Happy Cooking! 🍲🌿