Spinach and Lentil Soup is a warm, comforting, and nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for any time of year, especially during cooler months. Combining hearty lentils with vibrant spinach and aromatic spices, this soup offers a rich and satisfying experience that’s both wholesome and easy to make.
Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them an ideal ingredient for soups. They cook quickly, absorb flavors well, and help keep you full longer. Spinach adds a burst of color and freshness, along with a boost of iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Together, these two ingredients create a powerhouse meal that’s perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.
The soup starts with a base of sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, classic aromatics that build depth. Warm spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric are added to create a gently spiced, earthy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Simmering the lentils in vegetable broth infuses them with flavor, while fresh spinach is stirred in at the end to retain its texture and nutrients.
Spinach and Lentil Soup is not just nutritious, it’s also budget-friendly and great for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge for several days and can be frozen for future meals. Serve it with crusty bread, a dollop of yogurt, or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner, a light lunch, or a make-ahead meal, this soup delivers on every front. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, yet light and nourishing. Once you make it, Spinach and Lentil Soup might just become a regular feature in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 4 cups spinach fresh
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Saute until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Stir to coat the vegetables.
- Add the lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition
I found it kinda bland. Could use more spices or something.
Bland? I thought it was fine! Maybe you just don’t like lentils?
I agree, it does need a little kick! I added some cayenne pepper and it was so much better!
This is just soup, what’s the big deal? It’s not like it’s gourmet or anything.
Maybe it’s not gourmet, but it looks super healthy! I love lentils 🥬
It’s soup but it’s tasty soup! Can’t you appreciate a good recipe?
Delicious! I added a bit of lemon juice on top, and it was perfect.
Too many veggies!! Can’t taste the lentils at all. 😡
What if I don’t have vegetable broth? Can I just use water?
Just made this and it’s sooo good! My kids loved it too. Thanks!
Spinach??? Yuck! I used kale instead. Still turned out great!
Spinach or kale, who cares? It’s all gonna taste the same in soup.
Kale is actually really good too! I might try that next time, thanks for the tip!
It’s okay. I guess I prefer chicken soup. Don’t see the hype.
So easy to make. But why do we need to rinse lentils? Are they dirty??
It’s just a precaution! Sometimes lentils can have dust or stones from harvesting. Better safe than sorry!
Why rinse? Sounds silly to me. I just throw them in without rinsing. Who has time for that? 🤷♂️
Yummm!!! I made this for dinner and my kids even ate it! Miracle soup!!
That’s amazing! It really is a miracle when kids eat their veggies. I’ll have to try this with my picky eaters!
I followed the recipe, but it tasted bland. Maybe needs more spices?
This soup is super tasty! I love how healthy it is too. Will definitely make it again.
I tried this last week, and I’m in love! So nutritious and easy to make. Thanks for sharing!
I added some chicken to mine and it was good, but that ain’t vegetarian lol!
Yum!!! This is exactly what I needed. I added some chili flakes for an extra kick.
The lentils took longer than 25 mins to get soft. Might be my stove though.
25 mins? That’s a joke! Lentils are supposed to be quick. Maybe try soaking them next time?
I’ve had the same issue with lentils before! Sometimes they just need a little extra time. Don’t worry, it happens.
So healthy! Lentils are good food. I added some leftover chicken and it was great!
I don’t know about this combo. Lentils and spinach together? Seems weird.
Lentils with spinach? Really strange mix. What’s next, chocolate and pickles?
I was skeptical too, but this soup is actually really good! The flavors blend nicely. Give it a shot!
Making this for the third time! Can’t get enough of it. Perfect for winter!
This soup is a cozy hug in a bowl! I love how uncomplicated it is. You’re right about it being perfect for winter. 😍
I don’t know, it just didn’t taste right to me. Maybe it’s the cumin? I’m not sure.
This soup is delicious! So filling and perfect for a cold day.
Looks great, but isn’t lentil soup kinda boring? I think it needs more spices or something.
I tried this soup and it was really good! I added some croutons, made it even better.
Is it supposed to be this watery? Mine turned out more like a stew.
How long do you cook the lentils? Mine came out too mushy…
You probably cooked them for too long. Try 15-20 mins next time!
Truly a healthy recipe! My kids ate it without any fuss, which is a win in my book.
👎 Worst soup ever! Tasted like grass. Never making this again.
I totally disagree! I love this soup! It’s healthy and full of flavor. Maybe you added too much spice?
Great recipe! The spinach really adds a nice flavor. Thanks for sharing!
Never liked spinach before, but this changed my mind. Yum!
This soup was amazing! Super flavorful. Will definitely make again.