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 green or brown lentils, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Food

I absolutely adore making this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup whenever I crave a nourishing meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the fact that I can throw everything into the crockpot and forget about it for hours. The combination of lentils, fresh spinach, and an array of vegetables not only provides a hearty, comforting vibe, but it also packs a nutritious punch. It’s perfect for meal prep, ensuring I have wholesome lunches ready for the week with minimal effort.

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:03:35.224Z

When I first made this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup, I was taken aback by how rich and flavorful it turned out to be. Armed with a flavor-packed vegetable broth and a mix of spices, I noticed the lentils absorbing all those wonderful flavors as they cooked over several hours. To add a depth of flavor, I include a splash of lemon juice just before serving, and the brightness it brings is astonishing!

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. I've experimented with different spices and herbs—like adding a dash of cumin or smoked paprika—and each variation has brought a unique twist. It's a wonderful way to sneak in extra greens and fiber into a delicious, hearty bowl of soup that my entire family loves.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich in protein and fiber from lentils
Flexible and customizable with your favorite veggies
Perfect for meal prep and easy leftovers

Ingredient Insights

Lentils are the star ingredient in this soup, providing both protein and fiber, which is essential for maintaining a satisfied appetite and supporting gut health. Green or brown lentils work well, but avoid using red lentils here as they tend to become mushy. Rinsing the lentils before adding them helps remove any debris and prevents them from becoming overly starchy during cooking.

Fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant green color but also enhances the salad's nutritional profile with vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants. Adding the spinach in the last ten minutes of cooking ensures it retains its bright color and nutrients. If you're looking for a swap, kale or Swiss chard can also be delicious substitutes, though they may need a few extra minutes to soften.

Making the Most of Your Soup

To enhance the flavor profile of this lentil soup, consider sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil for about 5-7 minutes before adding them to the crockpot. This process caramelizes the vegetables, resulting in a richer, more complex flavor in your final dish. If you opt for this step, lower the slow cooker time slightly, as the veggies will be partially cooked.

For meal prep convenience, this soup reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze in portions for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup thickens too much, ensuring it maintains a nice consistency while warming up.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Vegetables

Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic.

Combine Ingredients

In the crockpot, combine the lentils, vegetable broth, diced onions, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Cook the Soup

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

Add Spinach

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the chopped spinach. If desired, stir in lemon juice for extra flavor.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! Optionally, drizzle with olive oil for added richness.

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider incorporating some diced cooked chicken or turkey into the soup. You can also serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup can be served on its own as a filling meal, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for added texture and flavor. You might also consider topping it with a sprinkle of feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast to the hearty soup base.

For a bit more kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes just before serving. These small additions can elevate the flavor, catering to your personal taste and improving the overall dining experience.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your soup is too thick when cooking is complete, don't hesitate to add a bit of extra broth or water. Start with 1/2 cup at a time until you reach your desired consistency, gently stirring to combine. This is a common occurrence, especially if your lentils soak up more liquid than expected.

Conversely, if the soup is too watery, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to let some moisture evaporate. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even thickness. This simple adjustment can save your meal from being overly diluted.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach; just add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be frozen for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of whole-grain bread or a fresh salad.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup is entirely vegan!