Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup. It’s a vibrant, nourishing blend that marries earthy lentils, creamy butter beans, and vibrant spinach with a fragrant touch of spices. Every spoonful offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor, making it a soul-satisfying meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly day or just craving some comfort food that’s packed with nutrients, this soup will quickly become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential, bringing unique color, texture, and flavor that creates a deeply satisfying dish. From the aromatic garlic to the creamy butter beans, every component plays a crucial role in making this soup truly special.

• Olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing and enriches the overall flavor.
• Onion: Provides a sweet, mellow backdrop essential for building savory depth.
• Garlic: Infuses the broth with aromatic warmth that wakes up the palate.
• Green or brown lentils: The hearty protein-packed star of the soup that gives it substance.
• Vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.
• Butter beans: Creamy and soft, they add a lovely contrast in texture to the lentils.
• Fresh spinach: Brightens the soup with fresh earthiness and vibrant color.
• Ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy spice that complements the beans and lentils beautifully.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky hint that elevates the overall taste.
• Ground turmeric: Provides a gentle golden hue and subtle health benefits.
• Salt and pepper: Balances the flavors perfectly, essential for seasoning to taste.
• Lemon wedges (optional): A fresh squeeze brightens up each bowl with a zesty kick.

How to Make Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Adding diced onion and cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until soft and translucent builds a flavorful foundation. Then toss in minced garlic and sauté for another minute, allowing its aroma to awaken your senses and deepen the soup’s hearty base.

Step 2: Cook the Lentils

Next, add rinsed lentils along with vegetable broth, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric to the pot. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for around 20 to 25 minutes until the lentils are tender but still holding their shape, soaking up all those delicious spiced flavors.

Step 3: Add Butter Beans and Spinach

Once the lentils are just right, stir in the butter beans and chopped fresh spinach. Allow the soup to simmer another 5 minutes so the spinach wilts perfectly and the beans heat through, merging creamy texture with vibrant green freshness.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Finally, season with salt and pepper to your liking. For an extra burst of brightness, serve with a wedge of lemon on the side—just a quick squeeze can elevate the flavors beautifully, rounding out this harmonious blend of ingredients in your Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup.

How to Serve Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro adds that pop of green freshness and makes the soup look extra inviting. A dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of good olive oil can also add creaminess and richness, enhancing every spoonful with more depth.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm pita for dipping. For a heartier meal, a simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the earthy flavors without overpowering them, making your meal both balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, which look stunning and make the whole experience feel cozy and indulgent. You can also ladle the soup over a scoop of fluffy cooked rice or quinoa for extra texture and make it a complete meal. Presentation really boosts the enjoyment factor and makes this Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup a real showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to meld more with time, so leftovers might even taste better the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the ingredients evenly.

Freezing

Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. This method helps maintain the texture of the lentils and beans, and keeps the spinach vibrant without overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

You can, but dried lentils are preferred for this recipe because they hold their texture and absorb the flavors better. If using canned lentils, add them towards the end of cooking to avoid them becoming mushy.

Can I substitute the spinach for another leafy green?

Absolutely! Kale or Swiss chard are excellent alternatives, offering a slightly different flavor and texture but still providing that lovely green punch to the soup.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, this Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup freezes very well. Just be mindful that spinach can sometimes change texture after freezing, but overall the flavors hold up beautifully.

How spicy is this soup?

The soup itself is mild, focusing on warm, earthy spices. If you enjoy heat, you can easily add some red pepper flakes during cooking for a nice kick.

Can I make this soup creamy?

Definitely! For a creamier texture, try blending a portion of the soup before adding the butter beans and spinach. Stirring in coconut milk is also a delicious way to add richness and another layer of flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup is the kind of dish that makes you feel good while delighting your taste buds. It’s fresh, wholesome, and bursting with flavor, yet simple to prepare for any day of the week. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and find as much joy in it as I do. Cozy up with a warm bowl and enjoy every comforting mouthful!

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