Cozy Lentil Soup with Spinach

Cozy Lentil Soup with Spinach – Easy, Healthy, and Hearty

There’s just something about a big bowl of lentil soup that feels like a hug in food form. Add in fresh spinach, and you’ve got yourself a hearty, healthy, and downright delicious meal that’s perfect for any season. This Lentil Soup with Spinach recipe is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, yet it’s easy enough for a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and meal-prep approved.

Let’s dig into why this soup deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.

Cozy Lentil Soup with Spinach Save

Why You’ll Love This Lentil Soup

  • Nutritious and filling: Lentils and spinach deliver protein, fiber, and vitamins.
  • Budget-friendly: Simple pantry staples keep costs low.
  • One-pot wonder: Less cleanup, more comfort.
  • Customizable: Works with different lentils, veggies, or seasonings.
  • Great for leftovers: The flavor only gets better the next day.

Recipe Overview

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon, optional but recommended for brightness

Kitchen Equipment Required

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Ladle for serving

How to Make Lentil Soup with Spinach

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and spices: Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Simmer the soup: Add lentils, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
  4. Stir in spinach: Add spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
  5. Serve hot: Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra herbs if desired.

Tips for the Best Lentil Soup

  • Rinse lentils well: Removes any dust or grit.
  • Don’t overcook spinach: Add it at the end to keep it bright and fresh.
  • Use good broth: Homemade or high-quality broth makes a big difference.
  • Finish with acid: A squeeze of lemon or splash of vinegar balances flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not seasoning enough: Lentils need plenty of salt and spices to shine.
  • Overcooking lentils: They should be tender but not mushy.
  • Too much liquid: Remember, soup thickens as it cools, so add extra broth only if needed.
  • Skipping the aromatics: Onion, carrot, and celery are the flavor base—don’t skip them.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Different lentils: Use red lentils for a creamier texture (they cook faster, too).
  • Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
  • Protein boost: Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas.
  • Creamy version: Blend half the soup for a thicker, creamier base.
  • Greens swap: Replace spinach with kale, chard, or even collard greens.

How to Store and Meal Prep

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen.
  • Meal prep tip: Make a big batch and portion it into jars for grab-and-go lunches.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

  • Serve with crusty bread or warm pita for dunking.
  • Top with freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
  • Pair with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Cozy Lentil Soup with Spinach Save
Cozy Lentil Soup with Spinach

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just add everything except spinach to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4. Stir in spinach at the end.

Can I use canned lentils?
You can, but reduce cooking time to about 15 minutes since they’re already cooked.

How do I make this soup thicker?
Blend a cup or two of the soup and stir it back in for extra creaminess.

Is this soup vegan?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth.

Related Post: Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Conclusion

This Cozy Lentil Soup with Spinach is hearty, healthy, and satisfying—all while being budget-friendly and easy to make. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make in big batches, because it only gets better with time. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner, a nutritious meal prep option, or a warming lunch on a chilly day, this soup has you covered.

Make it once, and it might just become your new go-to comfort food.