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

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Ideas

I love whipping up this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup whenever I want a nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. It's packed with protein and fiber, which makes it both hearty and satisfying. The beauty of using a crockpot is that the lentils absorb all the flavors from the vegetables and spices, creating a deliciously rich soup. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens! I guarantee you’ll feel good about serving this dish to your family and friends.

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:17:35.793Z

When I first tried making this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup, I was amazed by how effortlessly everything came together. The lentils cooked to perfection while soaking up the essence of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and aromatic garlic. I often add a splash of lemon at the end to brighten the flavor. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

This recipe is perfect for meal prep. I usually make a double batch, and it stores beautifully in the fridge for a week or can be frozen for later. It’s an easy way to have a wholesome meal ready to go during busy weeknights. Give it a try, and you’ll see how simple healthy eating can be!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with nourishing ingredients and vibrant flavors
Effortless preparation using a crockpot
A comforting bowl of soup that's perfect for any season

      

Choosing the Right Lentils

For this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup, I recommend using green or brown lentils, as they hold their shape well during cooking. Red lentils, on the other hand, tend to break down and create a creamier texture but can also work if you prefer a smoother soup. To ensure a perfect outcome, make sure to rinse your lentils thoroughly before adding them to the pot. This removes any dirt or impurities and helps the lentils cook evenly.

If you're looking to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences, lentils are an excellent vegetarian protein source. They’re also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. If you're low on lentils, feel free to substitute with chickpeas or black beans; just adjust your cooking time accordingly, as they may need a bit more time to soften.

Flavor Building Techniques

The combination of thyme and paprika in this recipe brings about an earthy depth to the soup. I like to heat the spices briefly in a pan with a bit of olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This can help to release their essential oils and deepen the flavors significantly. Just a minute or two on medium heat until fragrant can elevate your soup's overall taste.

In addition to adding freshness, lemon juice at the end provides a zesty contrast to the earthy flavors of the lentils and vegetables. If you’re out of fresh lemons, a splash of apple cider vinegar can also do the trick. Just remember to taste before serving; adding acidity should brighten but not overpower the soup.

The Perfect Soup Consistency

The texture of your soup can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a heartier texture, ensure you don’t overcook the lentils; check them at the 4-hour mark on high or 6 hours on low. If you’d like a creamy soup, using an immersion blender to puree a portion of it can create a delightful contrast between smooth and chunky textures. Just blend a few cups, then stir back into the pot for a well-balanced finish.

After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to storage containers. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to one week or freezes well for up to three months. To reheat, simply bring back to a gentle simmer on the stove or use the microwave in short increments, stirring to ensure even heating.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

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

Combine these ingredients in your crockpot for a delightful meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse and sort the lentils, then chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.

Combine in Crockpot

Add the lentils, vegetable broth, spinach, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.

Cook the Soup

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

Finish with Lemon

If desired, stir in the lemon juice right before serving for a fresh kick!

Enjoy your hearty soup with some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For added creaminess, blend a portion of the soup before serving. This will give a nice texture without adding dairy.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is versatile, pairing wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. Enhance your meal by offering toppings like croutons, a dollop of yogurt, or fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. Each addition brings a unique twist to the dish and enhances its overall appeal.

For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked grains like quinoa or couscous directly into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Their texture will complement the lentils, making the dish even more filling.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can assemble all the ingredients in the crockpot the night before, refrigerate it, and set it to cook in the morning. This allows for minimal effort but maximum flavor on busy weeknights. Just be mindful of your liquid ratios if making this ahead; the lentils will soak up some moisture over time, so adjust your broth accordingly.

If you plan to freeze the leftovers, consider portioning them out in airtight containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat over low heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, simply add them during the last hour of cooking.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini and bell peppers work great in this soup.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free.