Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup! The combination of fresh spinach and zesty lemon creates a bright, refreshing flavor that is both comforting and invigorating. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of how simple ingredients can come together to make a dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Perfect as a light lunch or a starter at dinner, this soup never fails to impress. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:49:15.039Z

When I first tried making spinach soup, I was astonished at how versatile it could be. While experimenting, I discovered the perfect balance of creamy textures and bright lemony notes, and I knew I had struck gold. Using fresh spinach gives the soup an incredible vibrant color, while the addition of lemon juice and zest brings it to life with a refreshing twist.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to an exceptional soup lies not only in the ingredients but in the cooking method as well. Sautéing the onions until they are translucent before adding the spinach ensures a depth of flavor, while blending everything smoothly creates a luxurious texture. Trust me, you won't want to skip this step!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and tangy flavor from fresh lemons
Velvety texture that warms your soul
Quick to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

      

Mastering the Base

To create a luscious base for your Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, it's essential to properly sauté the onion and garlic. Aim for the onion to become translucent and slightly golden, which should take about 5 minutes. This step builds a depth of flavor that will elevate your soup significantly. When adding the garlic, cook until it's fragrant—usually about one minute. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.

Feel free to customize the sauté base by incorporating shallots for a milder flavor or a hint of heat with red pepper flakes. Adding onion and garlic not only provides a robust foundation for the soup but also ensures a well-rounded palate with each spoonful. These aromatics are crucial, as they contribute both to the richness and the overall enjoyment of the dish.

The Role of Spinach

Fresh spinach is the star of this recipe, bringing a bright, vegetable-forward flavor profile. When cooking the spinach, aim for just wilted leaves, which usually takes around 3 minutes. This quick cooking retains its vibrant green color and nutrient density, enhancing the visual appeal and eliminating any risk of overcooking that could lead to a mushy texture.

If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can substitute with frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess water in the soup. Keep in mind, though, that frozen spinach will deliver a slightly different flavor profile and texture when compared to fresh. To retain that beautiful green hue, always add it towards the end of cooking.

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

The key to a velvety texture in your soup lies in the blending process. Using an immersion blender is my preferred method, as it allows for easier cleanup and direct blending in the pot. If transferring to a regular blender, blend in batches and be cautious with hot liquids, as they can create pressure and splatter. Always allow the soup to cool slightly before blending if using a traditional blender.

Incorporating heavy cream enhances the soup's richness, but you can opt for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free option. Just be aware that these alternatives may add their own unique flavors—coconut, for example, brings a subtle sweetness that complements the acidity of the lemon. Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your preference for tanginess to keep balance in the flavor profile.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Cook the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the pot and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.

Blend the Soup

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches.

Add Cream and Lemon

Return the blended soup to the pot, stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Heat through, but do not boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional lemon zest or a dollop of cream if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of fresh herbs such as basil or dill while blending the soup.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautifully presented soup, consider garnishing your Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a swirl of heavy cream. A few toasted pine nuts or croutons can add a delightful crunch and contrast to the creaminess of the soup. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal ideal for lunch or a light dinner.

This soup also serves beautifully as an appetizer. Serve in small cups or shooters for a chic presentation at dinner parties. The bright color and refreshing flavor will invigorate your guests’ palates, preparing them for the main course.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re planning to make this soup ahead of time, prepare and blend it as directed, then let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will keep well for 3-4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove, stirring gently to avoid separation of the cream.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for easy handling. Reheat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to return it to a creamy consistency. Avoid boiling it after adding the cream as this can cause the cream to curdle.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well too! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the pot.

→ How can I make this soup lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a low-fat cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.

→ Can this soup be frozen?

Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.