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 green or brown lentils, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Fresh Inspiration

I absolutely love making my Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup on busy days. The best part is how effortlessly everything comes together in the slow cooker, allowing me to enjoy a warm, nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with protein-rich lentils and vibrant spinach, it’s perfect for a filling lunch or dinner. Plus, I can customize it with my favorite seasonings. Set it and forget it—this soup is both simple and satisfying!

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:04:36.675Z

When I first tried making lentil soup, I was surprised by how rich and comforting it turned out. I learned that soaking the lentils overnight enhances their flavor and texture, making every bite a delight. Combining fresh spinach at the end locks in the vibrant color and nutrients.

This method gives me flexibility—if I have leftover vegetables, I toss them in! The slow cooker does all the work, and I love the aroma that fills my kitchen as it simmers throughout the day.

Why You'll Love This Soup
Loaded with nutritious ingredients that benefit your health
Rich flavors that develop beautifully as it cooks
Easily customizable with your favorite spices and vegetables

Ingredient Insights

Lentils are the star of this soup, offering not just protein but also fiber and a rich earthy flavor. Dried green or brown lentils are ideal here as they hold their shape during cooking and have a wonderful texture. Make sure to rinse them well before adding to the crockpot to remove any dust or debris. The combination of lentils with the fresh spinach provides a hearty yet nutritious base that's perfect for any time of year.

Using fresh vegetables like onion, carrots, and celery creates a delightful mirepoix that enhances the soup's flavor profile. The vegetables break down during the cooking process, infusing the broth with their natural sweetness and aroma. Opt for organic vegetables when possible to maximize health benefits and flavor. You can also add other vegetables such as diced bell peppers or zucchini for additional nutrition and a pop of color.

Cooking Techniques

The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a savory and satisfying soup. When using the low setting, allow it to cook for 4 hours; during this time, the lentils become tender and absorb all the spices. However, if you are short on time, the high setting works well, cooking everything in just 2 hours—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner solution.

Adding the spinach and lemon juice at the end is crucial. The brief cooking time keeps the spinach vibrant and packed with nutrients. As you stir in the spinach, you should see it wilt quickly, turning a bright green, which provides not only visual appeal but also a fresh flavor contrast to the earthy lentils. This finishing touch elevates the dish, balancing the richness with zest.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Steps to Make the Soup

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rinsed lentils, diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. This combination forms a robust base for flavor.

Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Add the lentil mixture into the crockpot. Pour in vegetable broth, then season with cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Slow Cook the Soup

Set the crockpot on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until the lentils are tender.

Finish with Spinach and Lemon Juice

Stir in chopped spinach and lemon juice just before serving, letting the spinach wilt for a few minutes.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing your onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This will enhance the overall depth of the soup. You can also blend part of the soup for a creamier texture if desired.

Storage and Freezing

This lentil soup is excellent for meal prep! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. Make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, feel free to add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. This makes for a quick, nutritious meal option on those days when you want something healthy with minimal effort.

Customizations and Variations

Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs to match your personal preference. For a spicier kick, try adding a teaspoon of chili powder or a diced jalapeño when you combine the ingredients in the crockpot. Herbs like rosemary or basil can also provide a different flavor profile if you're looking for variety. Just be mindful of the balance—start with small amounts and adjust as needed until you find your perfect blend.

You might also want to experiment with adding grains like quinoa or farro to this soup for extra texture and nutrition. If you decide to add grains, keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may require some adjustments depending on the type you use. Whether you keep it plant-based or add protein like shredded chicken, there are countless ways to make this soup your own!

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.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.