Spinach Lentil Soup
There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of homemade Spinach Lentil Soup. Packed with earthy lentils, vibrant greens, and warming spices, it offers nourishment with every spoonful. Whether you’re in need of a cozy winter meal or looking to reset with something light yet hearty, this soup fits beautifully into any season.
What makes this soup special is its balance of flavor and function. The lentils bring satisfying protein and fiber, while the spinach adds a tender green element that complements the broth. Add in aromatic vegetables, a hint of garlic, and a touch of lemon juice, and you get a dish that’s both restorative and exciting to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Spinach Lentil Soup
You’ll love how easy it is to make, using pantry staples and just one pot. It’s perfect for meal prep and freezes like a dream, so you can enjoy a bowl whenever you need it. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even better the next day.
This soup also caters to a variety of diets. It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, and it’s incredibly filling without being heavy. Add rice or crusty bread if you’re in the mood for extra carbs, or enjoy it as is for a low-calorie, high-nutrition option.
Can I Use a Different Kind of Lentil?
Absolutely. While brown or green lentils hold their shape best and are typically used in this recipe, you can substitute red lentils if you prefer a softer, more stew-like texture. Just be aware that red lentils cook faster and may break down more in the soup.
Ingredients for the Spinach Lentil Soup
To bring this soup to life, you only need a handful of humble yet powerful ingredients that build a rich and hearty flavor. These pantry-friendly items are easy to find and customize.
- Olive oil
- Yellow onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic cloves
- Dried thyme
- Ground cumin
- Crushed tomatoes
- Brown or green lentils
- Vegetable broth
- Bay leaf
- Fresh spinach
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Each of these ingredients serves an important purpose: the vegetables create the base, the lentils provide heartiness, and the seasonings and acid round it all out with brightness and depth.

How To Make the Spinach Lentil Soup
Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and cumin. Let them bloom for a minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Lentils and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, lentils, bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Step 3: Stir in the Spinach
Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted. Remove the bay leaf.
Step 4: Brighten and Season
Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning and consistency as needed, adding more broth or water if you prefer a thinner soup.
How to Serve and Store This Soup
Spinach Lentil Soup is best served warm with a slice of toasted bread or a sprinkle of grated parmesan if you’re not keeping it vegan. It comfortably feeds about 6 people as a main course.
To store, let the soup cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
What to Serve With Spinach Lentil Soup?
Crusty Garlic Bread
Perfect for dipping and soaking up every bit of broth.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream
A dollop on top adds creaminess and a cool contrast.
Simple Green Salad
Light and refreshing, a salad balances the warmth of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables
Add even more nutrients with a side of roasted carrots, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes.
Brown Rice or Quinoa
Serve the soup over grains for a heartier meal.
Avocado Toast
The creaminess of avocado pairs beautifully with the tangy soup.
Feta-Stuffed Olives
An easy, salty side that’s packed with flavor.
Want More Soup Ideas?
If you’re loving this Spinach Lentil Soup, you’ll also enjoy these comforting options:
- Cajun Potato Soup for a spicy, hearty twist.
- Creamy Chicken and Broccoli that’s rich and satisfying.
- Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup for a warm, exotic blend.
- Sweet Potato Curry if you’re craving creamy spices.
- Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef for a protein-rich bowl.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use kale instead of spinach? Toss in red lentils for a twist? I’d love to hear how you make it your own.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting bowls and more on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover new ideas for every season.
Conclusion
Spinach Lentil Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of comfort, health, and flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or making a batch for lunches ahead, this recipe has everything you need to feel nourished and satisfied.

Spinach Lentil Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Spinach Lentil Soup is a comforting, hearty, and healthy vegan soup packed with protein-rich lentils, tender spinach, aromatic vegetables, and warming spices. It’s perfect for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and naturally gluten-free. This easy one-pot recipe is ideal for cozy dinners and nutritious lunches.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 cup crushed tomatoes
1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
6 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
5 cups fresh spinach
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 7 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic, thyme, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, lentils, bay leaf, and broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 5 more minutes until wilted.
5. Remove bay leaf, stir in lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust with more broth if a thinner consistency is desired.
Notes
Use green or brown lentils to retain texture.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Lemon juice brightens the earthy flavors—don’t skip it!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg


