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, 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 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Favorites

I always look forward to the comforting warmth of a hearty soup, and this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup is a staple in my kitchen. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Just toss in the ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let it do the work. I love how the lentils and spinach blend together, creating a nutritious meal that’s packed with flavor. The best part? It’s a guilt-free indulgence that keeps our bellies happy!

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:53:34.615Z

When I first made this Healthy Crockpot Spinach Lentil Soup, I was amazed by how easily the flavors blended together. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients created a beautiful aroma that filled my kitchen. I discovered that using vegetable broth instead of water adds an unexpected depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.

Over time, I’ve adjusted the recipe to include various vegetables depending on what I have on hand. This flexibility has made it my go-to meal prep option. I particularly enjoy adding a touch of lemon juice at the end, which brightens everything up deliciously.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and packed with protein from lentils
Easy to customize with favorite vegetables
Perfectly creamy texture with every spoonful
Great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day

      

Understanding Lentils in Your Soup

Lentils are the heart of this soup, providing both nourishment and bulk. They are rich in protein and fiber, making them an excellent meat alternative. It's essential to rinse the lentils thoroughly to remove any dust or debris, ensuring a clean flavor in your soup. Opt for green or brown lentils, as they hold their shape better during the slow cooking process compared to red lentils, which can become mushy.

Another important aspect is the cooking time. Lentils typically take about 25-30 minutes to cook on the stove, but in the crockpot, their long simmering allows them to absorb all the delicious flavors from the broth and vegetables. Make sure to check them toward the end of cooking to ensure they are tender but not overly soft.

The Role of Vegetables and Herbs

Each vegetable in this soup contributes its unique flavor and texture. Onions provide a sweet base, while carrots and celery add a satisfying crunch. When adding these vegetables, dice them to a uniform size for even cooking; aim for about 1/4-inch pieces. This ensures they soften at the same rate, offering a harmonious bite with every spoonful of soup.

The herbs, particularly cumin and thyme, elevate this soup from simple to savory. Cumin imparts an earthy warmth, complementing the lentils, while thyme adds a touch of freshness. Adjust the quantities according to your taste; fresh thyme can be substituted for dried if available, enhancing the aroma as it cooks. Just remember, fresh herbs should be added towards the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavor.

Serving and Storing Your Soup

This soup is fantastic fresh, but it also saves beautifully for meal prep. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers. It can keep in the refrigerator for up to five days or be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply add a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency as it may thicken during storage.

As for serving suggestions, I love pairing this soup with a slice of whole grain bread or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor. A dollop of Greek yogurt also makes a delightful finishing touch, adding creaminess and tang. For a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to individual bowls for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:

Ingredients

1 cup dried 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 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepared before you start the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your soup:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the lentils, diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Set aside.

Combine in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, add the vegetable broth, the prepared ingredients, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook

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

Add Spinach

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped spinach and cover again.

Finishing Touches

Before serving, add the lemon juice if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve hot and enjoy a comforting bowl of soup, perfect for any season!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. You can also experiment with different herbs or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!

Ingredients Variations

Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices based on what's in season or your personal preferences. Zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes would work beautifully in this soup. Chopping them into bite-sized pieces is crucial to ensure even cooking.

If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be made vegan by skipping the optional lemon juice or swapping in a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity. You can also experiment with different types of lentils, like black or French lentils, for varied textures and flavors.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your soup comes out thicker than expected, don’t hesitate to add extra vegetable broth gradually while reheating until you reach the desired consistency. Alternatively, if it seems a bit watery, you can simmer it uncovered on the stove for a short while to evaporate excess liquid.

Should your lentils still be firm after the recommended cooking time, it might simply be due to the age of the lentils or variations in slow cookers. If this happens, just extend the cooking time, checking every 30 minutes until they reach that tender stage for perfect enjoyment.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat them through.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or can be enjoyed on its own for a light meal.