Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dry lentils; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Simple Favorites

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup on busy weekdays. It’s effortless yet incredibly nourishing, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while I go about my day. The best part? I can whip it up in the morning, and by dinner, it's ready to warm my soul. This soup is packed with protein-rich lentils and vibrant spinach that create a deliciously hearty meal. Plus, it's a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into our diet without compromising on taste.

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:24:36.428Z

When I first tried making lentil soup in the crockpot, I was amazed at how simple it was. I prepped everything the night before and tossed it all in the slow cooker before heading to work. The aroma filled my home when I returned, and it was comforting to know a nutritious meal was ready.

Using fresh spinach not only added a vibrant pop of color but also packed in essential nutrients. I learned that adding the spinach in the last hour of cooking preserves its vibrant color and nutrition, making the soup a feast for both the eyes and the body.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling without being heavy
Loaded with nutritious ingredients for a healthy meal
Effortlessly prepared in a crockpot, perfect for busy days

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Lentils are not just high in protein; they are also an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. When selecting lentils, remember that green or brown varieties hold their shape better in soups, providing a better texture contrast against the soft vegetables.

Fresh spinach is the star of the show, adding a vibrant color and a boost of nutrients. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants. To maximize their benefits, stir the spinach in during the last hour of cooking. This gentle treatment helps retain its bright green color and nutrients while keeping the soup looking appetizing.

Cooking with the Right Tools

Using a crockpot is one of the best methods for making this lentil soup, as it allows for low and slow cooking, enhancing the flavors beautifully. If you're in a hurry, you can opt for the high setting, which cooks the soup in about four hours. Ensure that you use a good-quality vegetable broth; homemade or low-sodium options can elevate the flavor without adding too much salt.

A sharp knife is crucial when prepping the vegetables to ensure even cooking. Aim for uniform sizes, as this helps the carrots and celery become tender at the same rate as the lentils. If you find that you don't have time for chopping, pre-chopped veggie mixes can save time without sacrificing much on taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a wholesome soup that warms you up from the inside out:

Ingredients

1 cup dry lentils
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Once you have everything ready, you can begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your delicious soup:

Prep the Ingredients

Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.

Add to Crockpot

Place all the chopped vegetables, lentils, and spices into the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth.

Slow Cook

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

Add Spinach

In the last hour of cooking, stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt.

Season and Serve

Before serving, add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Enjoy your nutritious soup!

Enjoy this delicious, hearty soup with a slice of crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. You can also blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture if you prefer.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup can be a great make-ahead meal, saving you time during a busy week. Prepare the soup in advance, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This method allows the flavors to deepen and meld further, making the soup even more delicious!

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this lentil soup according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For a spicier kick, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes at the beginning of the cooking process. You can also incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, which can add variety and additional nutrients to the soup.

If you're looking for a creamier texture, blend a small portion of the soup before serving. This gives the broth a luxurious mouthfeel while still keeping the hearty lentils intact. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added creaminess and flavor, turning this healthy option into an even more indulgent treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time as canned lentils are already cooked.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

It can last about 4-5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let it cool and then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy!