Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup Recipe

Cozy up to a bowl of pure comfort with this Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup! It’s everything you want in a nourishing meal: hearty lentils, creamy butter beans, and a generous helping of greens, all simmered together in aromatic spices. The combination yields a vibrant, earthy, and satisfying soup that works for chilly nights or quick lunches. Whether you’re a longtime soup lover or just discovering how delightful it can be, get ready to add this recipe to your regular rotation—you truly won’t want to miss out on the magic inside each spoonful of Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how such simple, wholesome ingredients can deliver layers of flavor, nutrition, and visual pop. Each component of this Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup adds its own delightful note, so don’t skip a thing—the harmony of textures and tastes makes all the difference!

• Olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity base that helps bring out the flavors of the vegetables and spices.
• Onion: Gives the soup a subtle sweetness and hearty depth as it cooks down and caramelizes a little.
• Garlic: Brings sharpness and irresistible aroma to the soup.
• Lentils (green or brown): Provide the satisfying body and earthy base of the soup—plus plant-based protein and fiber.
• Vegetable broth: The savory foundational liquid that allows all the other flavors to meld.
• Butter beans (canned): Deliver creamy, soft bites and extra creaminess that distinguishes this soup from the rest.
• Fresh spinach: Loads the soup with color, freshness, and an extra hit of nutrients.
• Ground cumin: Adds a gentle, nutty warmth that infuses the soup with personality.
• Smoked paprika: Lends smoky undertones and beautiful reddish hue.
• Ground turmeric: Provides subtle earthiness and that gorgeous golden tint.
• Salt and pepper: Simple but necessary for bringing all the flavors into perfect balance.
• Lemon wedges (optional): A squeeze brightens everything up right before serving.

How to Make Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Begin by heating your olive oil in a large, sturdy pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lovely and soft. Toss in your minced garlic and stir for one more minute—you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells irresistible! This simple base sets the savory stage for the rest of the soup.

Step 2: Cook the Lentils

Once your onion and garlic are meltingly tender, stir in the lentils along with the vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Give everything a good mix to make sure the spices are well distributed. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the lentils are perfectly tender but not mushy. This is where all those flavors deepen and the lentils soften up beautifully.

Step 3: Add Butter Beans and Spinach

Now it’s time to add the stars: butter beans and chopped spinach! Stir these into the simmering pot and continue cooking for about 5 more minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the beans are warmed through. Watch as the soup becomes even more vibrant—the greens add life and freshness, while the butter beans become blissfully creamy.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Finish by generously seasoning your Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle it into bowls and offer lemon wedges for those who like a zesty finish. The citrus adds a perky brightness that ties everything together, making every bite sing!

How to Serve Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

Garnishes

For a final flourish, sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right on top before serving. A swirl of good olive oil or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a special touch too. If you’re in the mood for extra brightness, an extra squeeze of lemon works wonders on the Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup.

Side Dishes

This soup is truly filling all on its own, but pairing it with warm crusty bread or a slice of toasted sourdough takes things up a notch. If you’d like something light on the side, a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette pairs beautifully without overshadowing your Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your soup in individual soup mugs or small bowls for a cozy, café-style presentation. For gatherings, ladle Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup into a large, rustic pot and let guests serve themselves family-style, surrounded by an array of toppings and fresh bread. You can even pour it into a thermos for a soul-warming picnic treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup into airtight containers. It will keep happily in the fridge for up to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier on day two.

Freezing

This soup is a freezer superstar! After cooling completely, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight whenever you need a quick, healthy meal.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if it’s thickened up. You can also use the microwave for speedy single servings—just cover and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use different greens instead of spinach?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in kale, Swiss chard, or even baby arugula for a different flavor twist or based on what’s seasonal and fresh. Your Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup will be just as delicious.

What if I don’t have butter beans?

No butter beans? No problem! You can use other creamy beans like cannellini or even chickpeas for an equally satisfying result.

How can I make this soup spicier?

For those who love a kick, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper along with the garlic. The gentle heat pairs beautifully with the earthy flavors of the soup.

Is Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth (check those labels if you’re sensitive!) this soup is entirely gluten-free and naturally vegan.

Can I blend the soup for a creamier texture?

Definitely! For a velvety version, blend half the soup with an immersion blender or in batches, then mix it back in. You’ll get a thick, creamy consistency but still keep those lovely chunks of beans and spinach.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a nourishing, fuss-free meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or comfort, give Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup a try. It comes together quickly, stores perfectly, and never fails to bring warmth and happiness to the table. I hope it becomes one of your favorites too!

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