Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely adore making soup, and this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is one of my favorite recipes to whip up. The bright and fresh flavors mix beautifully with the creamy texture, creating a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Every spoonful is packed with flavor and nutrition, and it’s a fantastic way to use fresh spinach. I love serving it alongside crusty bread or a light salad to complete the meal. Trust me, this soup will brighten up your day!
When I first experimented with this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup, I was surprised by how simple yet delicious it turned out. Using fresh spinach not only added vibrant color but also a wealth of nutrients, making this a wholesome option. The addition of lemon juice brightens the entire dish and elevates the flavors considerably.
One of my favorite tips is to blend the soup until it’s completely smooth; this helps create a luxurious texture that’s simply irresistible. I often pair this soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Each time I make it, it feels like a warm embrace in a bowl!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty lemon flavor that awakens your palate
- Creamy texture balanced perfectly with fresh spinach
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
The Role of Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh spinach is key to achieving a vibrant flavor in this soup. When you add the spinach, it should be bright green and tender, wilting quickly in the pot. If possible, choose organic spinach, as it typically has a richer taste and fewer pesticides. For a more robust flavor, consider adding a handful of baby kale or Swiss chard along with your spinach, which can complement the creamy texture beautifully.
The lemon juice not only infuses the soup with a bright zesty flavor but also helps to balance the creaminess of the heavy cream. To maximize this effect, add the lemon juice gradually and taste as you go; you may find you need a bit less or more than the specified amount, depending on your lemon's tartness. Remember to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Perfecting the Texture
Achieving the right texture in your soup is crucial. When you're blending the soup, aim for a velvety consistency. If using a blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it in batches to avoid splattering. Keep an eye on the blending process; if it's too thick after blending, you can whisk in additional vegetable broth to create your desired consistency.
If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve some of the cooked potato and spinach before blending, and stir them back in after blending. This will enhance both the visual appeal and the mouthfeel, offering delightful bursts of texture alongside the creamy base.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients, and let's get started!
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Spinach and Broth
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced potato. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it in batches to a blender.
Finish with Cream and Lemon
Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider topping the soup with croutons or a sprinkle of grated cheese. If you prefer a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, do so gently over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or separation. Avoid bringing it to a rolling boil, as this could alter the creamy texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. However, keep in mind that the cream may separate when thawed. To maintain the best texture, freeze the soup without the heavy cream and incorporate it after reheating. This method allows the soup to retain its rich, creamy goodness.
Serving Suggestions
I love to serve this soup with a generous slice of crusty baguette or homemade bread, which pairs perfectly with the creamy broth. For a light meal, consider a fresh garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette, which echoes the soup's bright flavors. Alternatively, serve it with a side of grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting twist.
If you're looking to make this soup a bit heartier, feel free to add 1 cup of cooked chickpeas or white beans during the simmering stage. This adds not only protein and fiber but also a lovely texture contrast that enhances the overall dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove top.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day ahead. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight in the fridge.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
Pair the soup with a light salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.
Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup
I absolutely adore making soup, and this Creamy Lemon Spinach Soup is one of my favorite recipes to whip up. The bright and fresh flavors mix beautifully with the creamy texture, creating a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Every spoonful is packed with flavor and nutrition, and it’s a fantastic way to use fresh spinach. I love serving it alongside crusty bread or a light salad to complete the meal. Trust me, this soup will brighten up your day!
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced potato. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it in batches to a blender.
Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve hot.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider topping the soup with croutons or a sprinkle of grated cheese. If you prefer a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 4g