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: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how vibrant and refreshing this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is! It’s a dish that’s not only comforting but also packed with greens, making it a nutritious option for any meal. The zesty lemon really brightens the flavor, and the creamy texture makes it feel indulgent without being heavy. Whether I’m craving something warm on a chilly day or looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner, this soup always hits the spot. Plus, it comes together in just under 30 minutes!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:55:11.298Z

When I first tried Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, I couldn't believe how simple yet delicious it was. I decided to make it after a farmer's market visit, where fresh spinach was the star of the show. Adding lemon was my little twist that elevated the flavors and made every spoonful burst with freshness.

One secret I discovered is to sauté garlic and onions before adding the spinach to the pot. This step brings out a warm depth of flavor and creates a beautifully balanced base for the soup. It's these little details that make all the difference in the final dish!

        You'll Love This Recipe Because
        Zesty lemon brighten the flavor profile
Creamy texture that's satisfying and luscious
Quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes

      

The Brightness of Lemon

Lemon is a star ingredient in this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, bringing a refreshing brightness that elevates the dish. Its acidity contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the soup, balancing flavors and enhancing the overall experience. The key is to add lemon juice and zest at the end of the cooking process to maintain that vibrant citrus flavor. If you prefer a more subtle lemon note, start with just 2 tablespoons of juice and gradually adjust to your taste.

Beyond flavor, lemon also provides a nutritional boost, packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. This not only aids in digestion but also adds a refreshing element that can make this soup feel lighter. When zesting your lemon, be careful to only use the bright yellow part of the rind, as the white pith can impart bitterness. A microplane grater works wonders here!

Texture Matters

The creamy texture in this soup comes from heavy cream, which creates a rich mouthfeel. When adding the cream, it’s best to let the soup simmer gently so it heats through without boiling. Boiling can cause the cream to separate, resulting in an unappealing appearance and texture. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half the cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that still offers creaminess.

For those who enjoy a bit of texture, consider topping your soup with fresh croutons or roasted pumpkin seeds. This will add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smoothness of the soup. Additionally, serving it with a drizzle of olive oil enhances both the flavor and visual appeal.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Spinach

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

Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and increase heat to bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Remove pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also blend in batches in a regular blender if needed.

Stir in Cream and Lemon

Return the blended soup to the heat. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and heat through for another 3 minutes.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try topping the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to tailor this soup to your dietary needs, there are plenty of substitutions you can make. For a vegan version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth, which is already in the recipe. You can also use silken tofu blended until smooth as a great alternative, providing similar creaminess without dairy.

If fresh spinach isn’t available, feel free to use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain excess water before adding it to the pot. This will prevent excess moisture from altering the soup's intended creaminess.

Make-Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, do so on low heat to prevent the cream from separating. If it thickens too much in the fridge, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup. Divide it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stove. Make sure to stir in a little fresh lemon juice before serving to revive that zesty flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth. It will still be delicious!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the cream until you reheat it.

→ What other greens can I add?

You can add kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula for a different flavor and nutrient boost.