Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Pinch of nutmeg

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup on chilly days. The bright flavor of fresh lemons combined with the earthy richness of spinach makes this soup a delightful comfort food. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. I often serve it with crusty bread, which really enhances the experience. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen during the winter months.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:01:21.749Z

When I first experimented with making this soup, I wanted to create a dish that was both creamy and light. The trick I discovered is in the blending. By simmering the spinach and using an immersion blender, I achieved a smooth texture that was absolutely divine. Adding lemon zest at the end made all the difference, adding a bright note that perfectly complements the other flavors.

I also found that incorporating a bit of nutmeg enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the soup. Each spoonful is warming and refreshing at the same time, and I can’t help but feel happy every time I make it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and refreshing lemon flavor that lifts your spirits.
Creamy texture made without heavy cream, making it lighter.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

      

The Role of Spinach in Your Soup

Spinach is not only the star of this soup but also packed with nutrients. When cooking, fresh spinach wilts significantly, releasing its earthy flavor and vibrant color. It’s important to ensure you wash it thoroughly before use to remove any grit. Cooking spinach for just 3-4 minutes allows it to retain some texture while becoming beautifully tender, enhancing the soup's overall body and visual appeal.

In addition to its nutritional benefits, spinach pairs exceptionally well with lemon, creating a delightful balance between the soup's creamy elements and the bright acidity of the fruit. If you're looking to make this soup even heartier, incorporating other greens, like kale or chard, can work well; just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as these greens may take a bit longer to soften.

Coconut Milk: A Creamy Alternative

Choosing coconut milk for this recipe not only ensures a creamy texture but also introduces a subtle sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon. Always opt for full-fat coconut milk for a richer mouthfeel, but if you're looking to lower the fat content, light coconut milk is an acceptable substitute, though it may slightly alter the creaminess of the final soup.

When adding coconut milk, it's best to incorporate it after blending the soup for a smooth consistency. This prevents curdling and helps maintain that glossy, inviting texture. If you're aiming for a more pronounced coconut flavor, try using coconut cream instead, or finish with toasted coconut flakes as a garnish for added texture and flavor contrast.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup with crusty bread or a toasted baguette is a delightful way to indulge in its comforting nature. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein element like grilled chicken or chickpeas, which can be stirred in just before serving. This not only adds heartiness to the dish but elevates its nutritional profile.

For variations, think about infusing the soup with additional herbs like dill or basil for another layer of flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can brighten the flavor profile. Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze portions for easy, warming meals later on.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg

Once you have gathered the ingredients, you're ready to make some delicious soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Cook the Spinach

Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Add the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Blend and Finish

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Serve warm, garnished with extra lemon zest if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and garlic. If you like a thicker soup, add more coconut milk or blend longer to achieve your desired consistency.

Tips for Perfect Blending

When blending your soup, an immersion blender is ideal for convenience and minimal clean-up. Ideally, stop blending when the soup reaches a smooth and creamy consistency, which usually takes around 30 seconds. If using a stand blender, ensure to let the soup cool slightly to avoid pressure buildup, which can lead to splatters and uneven blending.

For an extra touch of elegance, reserve a small handful of lightly cooked spinach leaves to float on top when serving. This not only adds aesthetic appeal but also showcases the fresh ingredients, enticing your guests with a vibrant visual cue before they take their first spoonful.

Storing and Reheating Your Soup

This soup can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. To freeze, separate the soup into smaller portions, allowing for quick reheating as needed. If freezing, consider leaving out the coconut milk until you reheat, as it tends to separate upon thawing.

When reheating, do so gently over medium-low heat to ensure the soup warms evenly without cooking further. Stir frequently and add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup thickens too much while reheating. This will help regain that creamy texture, making your soup as delightful as the first time you enjoyed it.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup tastes too acidic after adding the lemon juice, try balancing it out with a touch of sweetness, like maple syrup or a bit of honey to soften the tartness. Adjusting seasonings gradually is key; taste as you go to find that perfect balance.

Should you find the texture too thick, simply stir in additional vegetable broth a little at a time until the desired consistency is achieved. Alternatively, for an extra creamy soup, blending in more coconut milk can enhance both flavor and texture while keeping it light and comforting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

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

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses coconut milk instead of dairy. Just ensure that your vegetable broth is also vegan.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.