![- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 2 medium carrots, diced - 2 celery stalks, diced - 6 cups vegetable broth - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped When making lentil soup with spinach, the main ingredients bring flavor and nutrition. Lentils are rich in protein and fiber. Onions and garlic add depth to the dish. Carrots and celery bring sweetness and crunch. The vegetable broth enhances the taste, while spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients. - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Juice of 1 lemon - Fresh parsley for garnish You can use olive oil for sautéing to add healthy fats. Lemon juice brightens the soup's flavor. Fresh parsley makes the dish look pretty and adds a fresh taste. - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste Seasonings make your soup unique. Cumin gives it warmth, while smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. For the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion. Sauté it until it turns soft and clear, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic. Cook this mixture for one more minute to release its nice flavor. Next, add the diced carrots and celery. Cook these vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften. These steps create a great base for your soup. Now, it’s time to add the star of the dish: the lentils. Pour in the rinsed lentils, along with ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine. Next, add the vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. The lentils should be tender when done. Once the lentils are ready, stir in the chopped spinach and lemon juice. Cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts. The bright green color adds a fresh look. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a creamier soup, use an immersion blender. Blend a portion of the soup while leaving some lentils whole for texture. Enjoy your warm and tasty lentil soup with spinach! For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To make your lentil soup taste amazing, use the right spices. My favorites are ground cumin and smoked paprika. They give a warm, rich flavor. You can add black pepper and salt to taste. Fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten the dish. When it comes to broth, homemade always wins. Homemade broth has deep flavor. You can control the salt and ingredients. If you use store-bought, choose low-sodium for better control over taste. Blend the soup when the lentils are soft. This helps create a smooth base. If you want some texture, blend just half. I love using an immersion blender for easy mixing. For a creamier soup, add a splash of cream or coconut milk. It makes a big difference! Pre-rinsing lentils is a must. It helps remove dust and debris. Simply rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear. This step ensures your soup is clean and delicious. Using a pressure cooker can save time. If you are busy, this is perfect. You can cut the cooking time in half. Just follow the same steps, but cook on high pressure for about 10-15 minutes. It’s a game changer! For the full recipe, check out Lentil & Spinach Delight. {{image_2}} You can make your lentil soup even better with extra ingredients. Adding protein sources boosts flavor and nutrition. Consider using chicken or sausage. They add heartiness and taste. If you prefer a lighter option, try cooked quinoa or chickpeas. You can also change the vegetables. Kale or zucchini work well in this soup. They add texture and color. Feel free to mix in your favorites. This flexibility makes the recipe your own. Want to make this soup vegan or vegetarian? Simply skip the meat. Use vegetable broth and add more beans for protein. Tofu is another great option. It soaks up flavors and adds a nice texture. For gluten-free options, check your broth. Most vegetable broths are gluten-free. This soup is naturally gluten-free because it uses lentils. Enjoy it without worry! You can spice things up with different flavor profiles. For a spicy lentil soup, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This gives it a kick that many people love. You might also want to try Mediterranean-inspired additions. Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese. These ingredients add a lovely twist to the traditional recipe. They bring bright flavors that make the soup sing. For the full recipe, check out the Lentil & Spinach Delight. Enjoy the mix of flavors and healthy options! To keep your lentil soup fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work great. Fill them with soup, leaving some space at the top. This helps with expansion when freezing. If you plan to eat it soon, refrigerate the soup. Make sure to cover it well. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the soup. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When it's time to eat, there are easy ways to reheat your soup. You can use the microwave or a pot on the stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. On the stove, warm it over low heat. Stir often and heat until it's hot throughout. After storing, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes, flavors change a bit, so you may need more salt or pepper. How long will lentil soup last in the fridge? Properly stored, your soup will last about five days. If it smells sour or looks off, it's time to toss it. Signs of spoiled lentil soup include strange colors or mold. Always check before eating leftovers to stay safe. Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in protein, fiber, and iron. This makes them great for heart health and digestion. Spinach adds even more nutrients. It has vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and calcium. Together, lentils and spinach create a balanced meal. They help keep your energy up and your body strong. Plus, they are low in calories. This makes lentil soup a smart choice for anyone. Yes, you can use canned lentils. They save time and are convenient. If you choose canned, rinse them first to reduce sodium. Use about one and a half cups of canned lentils. Add them near the end of cooking. This keeps them tender and tasty. Dried lentils take longer to cook but have a fresher taste. Both options work well, so pick what suits you best. Lentil soup pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Crusty bread for dipping - A fresh green salad for crunch - Rice or quinoa for added texture - Grilled cheese for a classic combo - Roasted veggies for extra flavor These sides enhance the soup's taste and make for a complete meal. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings! If you want the full recipe, check out the Lentil & Spinach Delight. Lentil soup with spinach is a simple and healthy meal. You learned key ingredients, steps for preparation, and ways to enhance flavors. Remember, you can adjust the recipe for your taste and dietary needs. Explore variations to keep it exciting. Storing leftovers properly helps maintain freshness. This soup is not only tasty but packed with nutrients. Try it out and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl. You will love how easy it is to make!](https://lisadishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/9e41fe5a-6a77-40cb-b4d4-28cfdf8f42af.webp)
Are you looking for a healthy yet delicious meal option? Lentil Soup with Spinach checks both boxes! Packed with nutrients, this soup is simple to make and bursting with flavor. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step, from gathering your ingredients to enjoying the final bowl. Get ready to learn how to whip up a hearty dish that nourishes your body and delights your taste buds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Lentil Soup with Spinach
– 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
When making lentil soup with spinach, the main ingredients bring flavor and nutrition. Lentils are rich in protein and fiber. Onions and garlic add depth to the dish. Carrots and celery bring sweetness and crunch. The vegetable broth enhances the taste, while spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients.
Optional Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Fresh parsley for garnish
You can use olive oil for sautéing to add healthy fats. Lemon juice brightens the soup’s flavor. Fresh parsley makes the dish look pretty and adds a fresh taste.
Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Seasonings make your soup unique. Cumin gives it warmth, while smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
For the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion. Sauté it until it turns soft and clear, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic. Cook this mixture for one more minute to release its nice flavor. Next, add the diced carrots and celery. Cook these vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften. These steps create a great base for your soup.
Cooking the Lentils
Now, it’s time to add the star of the dish: the lentils. Pour in the rinsed lentils, along with ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine. Next, add the vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. The lentils should be tender when done.
Finishing Touches
Once the lentils are ready, stir in the chopped spinach and lemon juice. Cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts. The bright green color adds a fresh look. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a creamier soup, use an immersion blender. Blend a portion of the soup while leaving some lentils whole for texture. Enjoy your warm and tasty lentil soup with spinach! For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your lentil soup taste amazing, use the right spices. My favorites are ground cumin and smoked paprika. They give a warm, rich flavor. You can add black pepper and salt to taste. Fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten the dish.
When it comes to broth, homemade always wins. Homemade broth has deep flavor. You can control the salt and ingredients. If you use store-bought, choose low-sodium for better control over taste.
Achieving the Right Consistency
Blend the soup when the lentils are soft. This helps create a smooth base. If you want some texture, blend just half. I love using an immersion blender for easy mixing. For a creamier soup, add a splash of cream or coconut milk. It makes a big difference!
Quick Preparation Ideas
Pre-rinsing lentils is a must. It helps remove dust and debris. Simply rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear. This step ensures your soup is clean and delicious.
Using a pressure cooker can save time. If you are busy, this is perfect. You can cut the cooking time in half. Just follow the same steps, but cook on high pressure for about 10-15 minutes. It’s a game changer!
For the full recipe, check out Lentil & Spinach Delight.
Variations
Additional Ingredients
You can make your lentil soup even better with extra ingredients. Adding protein sources boosts flavor and nutrition. Consider using chicken or sausage. They add heartiness and taste. If you prefer a lighter option, try cooked quinoa or chickpeas.
You can also change the vegetables. Kale or zucchini work well in this soup. They add texture and color. Feel free to mix in your favorites. This flexibility makes the recipe your own.
Dietary Modifications
Want to make this soup vegan or vegetarian? Simply skip the meat. Use vegetable broth and add more beans for protein. Tofu is another great option. It soaks up flavors and adds a nice texture.
For gluten-free options, check your broth. Most vegetable broths are gluten-free. This soup is naturally gluten-free because it uses lentils. Enjoy it without worry!
Different Flavor Profiles
You can spice things up with different flavor profiles. For a spicy lentil soup, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This gives it a kick that many people love.
You might also want to try Mediterranean-inspired additions. Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese. These ingredients add a lovely twist to the traditional recipe. They bring bright flavors that make the soup sing.
For the full recipe, check out the Lentil & Spinach Delight. Enjoy the mix of flavors and healthy options!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your lentil soup fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work great. Fill them with soup, leaving some space at the top. This helps with expansion when freezing. If you plan to eat it soon, refrigerate the soup. Make sure to cover it well. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the soup. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to eat, there are easy ways to reheat your soup. You can use the microwave or a pot on the stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. On the stove, warm it over low heat. Stir often and heat until it’s hot throughout. After storing, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes, flavors change a bit, so you may need more salt or pepper.
Shelf Life
How long will lentil soup last in the fridge? Properly stored, your soup will last about five days. If it smells sour or looks off, it’s time to toss it. Signs of spoiled lentil soup include strange colors or mold. Always check before eating leftovers to stay safe.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of lentils?
Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in protein, fiber, and iron. This makes them great for heart health and digestion. Spinach adds even more nutrients. It has vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and calcium. Together, lentils and spinach create a balanced meal. They help keep your energy up and your body strong. Plus, they are low in calories. This makes lentil soup a smart choice for anyone.
Can I use canned lentils instead?
Yes, you can use canned lentils. They save time and are convenient. If you choose canned, rinse them first to reduce sodium. Use about one and a half cups of canned lentils. Add them near the end of cooking. This keeps them tender and tasty. Dried lentils take longer to cook but have a fresher taste. Both options work well, so pick what suits you best.
What can I serve with lentil soup?
Lentil soup pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:
– Crusty bread for dipping
– A fresh green salad for crunch
– Rice or quinoa for added texture
– Grilled cheese for a classic combo
– Roasted veggies for extra flavor
These sides enhance the soup’s taste and make for a complete meal. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings! If you want the full recipe, check out the Lentil & Spinach Delight.
Lentil soup with spinach is a simple and healthy meal. You learned key ingredients, steps for preparation, and ways to enhance flavors. Remember, you can adjust the recipe for your taste and dietary needs. Explore variations to keep it exciting. Storing leftovers properly helps maintain freshness. This soup is not only tasty but packed with nutrients. Try it out and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl. You will love how easy it is to make!
![- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 2 medium carrots, diced - 2 celery stalks, diced - 6 cups vegetable broth - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped When making lentil soup with spinach, the main ingredients bring flavor and nutrition. Lentils are rich in protein and fiber. Onions and garlic add depth to the dish. Carrots and celery bring sweetness and crunch. The vegetable broth enhances the taste, while spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients. - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Juice of 1 lemon - Fresh parsley for garnish You can use olive oil for sautéing to add healthy fats. Lemon juice brightens the soup's flavor. Fresh parsley makes the dish look pretty and adds a fresh taste. - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste Seasonings make your soup unique. Cumin gives it warmth, while smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. For the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion. Sauté it until it turns soft and clear, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic. Cook this mixture for one more minute to release its nice flavor. Next, add the diced carrots and celery. Cook these vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften. These steps create a great base for your soup. Now, it’s time to add the star of the dish: the lentils. Pour in the rinsed lentils, along with ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine. Next, add the vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. The lentils should be tender when done. Once the lentils are ready, stir in the chopped spinach and lemon juice. Cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts. The bright green color adds a fresh look. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a creamier soup, use an immersion blender. Blend a portion of the soup while leaving some lentils whole for texture. Enjoy your warm and tasty lentil soup with spinach! For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To make your lentil soup taste amazing, use the right spices. My favorites are ground cumin and smoked paprika. They give a warm, rich flavor. You can add black pepper and salt to taste. Fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten the dish. When it comes to broth, homemade always wins. Homemade broth has deep flavor. You can control the salt and ingredients. If you use store-bought, choose low-sodium for better control over taste. Blend the soup when the lentils are soft. This helps create a smooth base. If you want some texture, blend just half. I love using an immersion blender for easy mixing. For a creamier soup, add a splash of cream or coconut milk. It makes a big difference! Pre-rinsing lentils is a must. It helps remove dust and debris. Simply rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear. This step ensures your soup is clean and delicious. Using a pressure cooker can save time. If you are busy, this is perfect. You can cut the cooking time in half. Just follow the same steps, but cook on high pressure for about 10-15 minutes. It’s a game changer! For the full recipe, check out Lentil & Spinach Delight. {{image_2}} You can make your lentil soup even better with extra ingredients. Adding protein sources boosts flavor and nutrition. Consider using chicken or sausage. They add heartiness and taste. If you prefer a lighter option, try cooked quinoa or chickpeas. You can also change the vegetables. Kale or zucchini work well in this soup. They add texture and color. Feel free to mix in your favorites. This flexibility makes the recipe your own. Want to make this soup vegan or vegetarian? Simply skip the meat. Use vegetable broth and add more beans for protein. Tofu is another great option. It soaks up flavors and adds a nice texture. For gluten-free options, check your broth. Most vegetable broths are gluten-free. This soup is naturally gluten-free because it uses lentils. Enjoy it without worry! You can spice things up with different flavor profiles. For a spicy lentil soup, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This gives it a kick that many people love. You might also want to try Mediterranean-inspired additions. Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese. These ingredients add a lovely twist to the traditional recipe. They bring bright flavors that make the soup sing. For the full recipe, check out the Lentil & Spinach Delight. Enjoy the mix of flavors and healthy options! To keep your lentil soup fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work great. Fill them with soup, leaving some space at the top. This helps with expansion when freezing. If you plan to eat it soon, refrigerate the soup. Make sure to cover it well. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the soup. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When it's time to eat, there are easy ways to reheat your soup. You can use the microwave or a pot on the stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. On the stove, warm it over low heat. Stir often and heat until it's hot throughout. After storing, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes, flavors change a bit, so you may need more salt or pepper. How long will lentil soup last in the fridge? Properly stored, your soup will last about five days. If it smells sour or looks off, it's time to toss it. Signs of spoiled lentil soup include strange colors or mold. Always check before eating leftovers to stay safe. Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in protein, fiber, and iron. This makes them great for heart health and digestion. Spinach adds even more nutrients. It has vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and calcium. Together, lentils and spinach create a balanced meal. They help keep your energy up and your body strong. Plus, they are low in calories. This makes lentil soup a smart choice for anyone. Yes, you can use canned lentils. They save time and are convenient. If you choose canned, rinse them first to reduce sodium. Use about one and a half cups of canned lentils. Add them near the end of cooking. This keeps them tender and tasty. Dried lentils take longer to cook but have a fresher taste. Both options work well, so pick what suits you best. Lentil soup pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Crusty bread for dipping - A fresh green salad for crunch - Rice or quinoa for added texture - Grilled cheese for a classic combo - Roasted veggies for extra flavor These sides enhance the soup's taste and make for a complete meal. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings! If you want the full recipe, check out the Lentil & Spinach Delight. Lentil soup with spinach is a simple and healthy meal. You learned key ingredients, steps for preparation, and ways to enhance flavors. Remember, you can adjust the recipe for your taste and dietary needs. Explore variations to keep it exciting. Storing leftovers properly helps maintain freshness. This soup is not only tasty but packed with nutrients. Try it out and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl. You will love how easy it is to make!](https://lisadishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/9e41fe5a-6a77-40cb-b4d4-28cfdf8f42af-250x250.webp)
