Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown); 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of half a lemon

Highlighted under: Wholesome Planning

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup whenever I'm craving something warm and nutritious. It’s incredibly fulfilling and packed with protein from the lentils, while the spinach adds a vibrant touch of color and plenty of vitamins. Preparing it in the crockpot means I can set it and forget it, letting the ingredients meld together beautifully over time. Whether served as a light meal or a hearty starter, it's a great way to nourish my body without sacrificing flavor.

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:59:35.122Z

When I first decided to make this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup, I was simply looking for an easy way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet. The combination of earthy lentils and fresh spinach surprised me with its deliciousness.

I found that sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot created a much richer depth of flavor in the final dish. It has now become a weekly staple that I look forward to enjoying!

Why You'll Love This Soup
Wholesome ingredients that will warm your heart
Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings
Rich in nutrients yet light on the stomach

The Importance of Ingredients

This soup showcases the humble lentil’s remarkable ability to absorb flavors while providing a hearty base. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a filling choice. When selecting lentils for this recipe, opt for green or brown varieties as they retain their shape well during cooking, ensuring a pleasant texture in your soup.

The fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but also contributes essential nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C. Keep in mind that the spinach will wilt significantly when cooked, so don’t hesitate to add extra if you desire a more robust spinach flavor or additional nutritional benefits.

Cooking Tips for Maximum Flavor

Sautéing the onion and garlic at the beginning is a critical step that enhances the soup's flavor profile. Aim for a golden color in your onion—this depth of flavor will set a solid foundation for the dish. If you find that your onions aren't browning properly, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding them, and stir occasionally to prevent burning.

When you're ready to season the soup, be mindful of the salt content in your vegetable broth. It's a good idea to taste the soup before adding additional salt. This way, you can adjust the seasoning to your preference without over-salting, preserving the balance of flavors.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. Reheating is simple; just warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

For serving, consider topping the soup with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to elevate its freshness. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can also add a delightful creaminess that complements the earthy lentils beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of half a lemon

Make sure to adjust seasonings according to your taste preference!

Instructions

Here’s how to make this delicious soup:

Prep the Ingredients

Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Combine in Crockpot

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the crockpot. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, chopped spinach, diced carrot, diced celery, ground cumin, and paprika. Stir well.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours until the lentils are tender.

Finish the Soup

Stir in the lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot. Enjoy the warmth!

This soup freezes well, so consider making a double batch!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, throw in a bay leaf while it cooks and remove it before serving. You can also add a dollop of yogurt on top when serving for a creamy touch.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables in your soup to customize it to your liking. Adding bell peppers or zucchini can provide different textures and flavors. If you enjoy spice, consider introducing a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix, enhancing the overall warmth of the dish.

For a protein boost, you can stir in cooked quinoa or diced chicken after cooking. Just let it warm through before serving. These additions will make the soup even heartier, transforming it from a starter to a satisfying main dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the soup too thick upon finishing, you can simply add a bit more vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Remember that the soup will thicken more as it cools, so adjusting for texture before serving is key.

On the other hand, if the soup tastes too bland, don’t hesitate to add a splash more lemon juice or some additional spices. This dish thrives on layered flavors, and a little adjustment can bring everything into perfect harmony.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes! If using canned lentils, add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through.

→ Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth, and you’re all set!

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to customize with your favorites like zucchini or bell peppers.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.