Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups dried lentils, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup, especially on chilly days. The combination of tender lentils, fresh spinach, and aromatic spices creates a comforting dish that warms me from the inside out. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare—just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work! The result is a nutritious, hearty soup that's rich in flavor and perfect for meal prep. Nothing beats having a delicious bowl of soul-soothing soup waiting for you at the end of a long day.

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:16:37.286Z

When I first decided to make this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup, I knew I wanted something that was both nourishing and satisfying. After trying various combinations, I found that pairing the earthy lentils with fresh spinach not only enhanced the flavor, but it also added a vibrant green color that makes the soup look as good as it tastes. I love the fact that it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a great choice for a filling meal.

One tip I discovered is to add a splash of lemon juice just before serving. It brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the lentils perfectly. My friends have all asked for the recipe after just one taste, and it's quickly become a staple in my home. Don't skip on the spices; they really elevate the soup to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and packed with protein from lentils
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor deepens as it cooks for hours

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are the heart of this soup, providing not only protein but also fiber, which helps keep you full for longer. Brown or green lentils are ideal for this recipe since they hold their shape well during cooking. Make sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly to remove any debris or impurities. Skipping this step can lead to a gritty texture in your soup, so it's best not to overlook it.

Cooking lentils in a crockpot allows them to absorb the flavors of the broth and spices slowly. This gentle cooking method is perfect for achieving a tender texture without the risk of overcooking them, which can happen on the stovetop. Stirring the lentils at the halfway mark during cooking isn't necessary, but if you prefer a creamier soup, consider mashing some of them with a fork before adding the spinach.

The Importance of Aromatics

Aromatics like onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, often referred to as the flavor base, play a critical role in enhancing the soup's overall taste. Sautéing these ingredients beforehand can intensify their flavors, but in the crockpot, they’ll develop a rich, mellow profile as they cook down with the lentils. This slow integration is vital for achieving that deep, comforting flavor that warms you up on chilly days.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to customize the soup to your taste. For example, adding a bay leaf or a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle depth or warmth that enhances the overall profile. Just remember to remove bay leaves before serving, as the leaves aren’t meant to be consumed.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Soup

2 cups dried lentils, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt to taste

Steps

Prepare Ingredients

In your crockpot, combine the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

Cook the Soup

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the lentils are tender.

Add Spinach and Season

About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt. Add olive oil, lemon juice, and salt to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting meal with a slice of whole-grain bread if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some diced tomatoes or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and can also be frozen for later enjoyment.

Storage and Freezing Tips

This soup not only tastes delicious but also stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions. Just make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when it freezes.

When ready to enjoy your frozen soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup appears too thick after thawing, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Creative Serving Suggestions

To elevate your soup experience, consider serving it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top. These additions add creaminess and a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the lentils and spinach. For a bit of crunch, I love topping the soup with toasted pine nuts or homemade croutons, which balance the tender textures of the soup nicely.

You can also transform this soup into a heartier meal by adding grains like quinoa or farro. These can be cooked separately and stirred in just before serving to keep them at the right texture. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a delightful chew to each bowl.

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 this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth, which is already in the recipe.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.