Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It’s a hug in a bowl, packed with wholesome ingredients that are not only good for you but also incredibly comforting. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy family gathering, this soup fits right in.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can whip it up in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s just as tasty the next day—if there are any leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy days.
• Family-friendly: Packed with flavors and nutrients, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead goodness: Prepare a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it all week long!
• Budget-friendly: All the ingredients are simple and affordable, making this dish easy on your wallet.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of lentils, beans, and spices creates a rich flavor that you’ll crave over and over.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup are straightforward and wholesome—perfect for a healthy meal at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or what you prefer. Here are some fun variations:

• Add more greens: Toss in kale or Swiss chard for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you like heat.
• Change the beans: Use chickpeas or navy beans instead of butter beans for a different texture.
• Creamy finish: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of vegan yogurt at the end for creaminess.

How to Make Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial because it provides the base flavor for our soup. The oil helps cook down the onion while enhancing its natural sweetness.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Add the diced onion to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. This step builds layers of flavor that will make your soup delicious.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Garlic adds depth to our soup, bringing out wonderful aromas that will make your kitchen feel warm and inviting.

Step 4: Incorporate Lentils & Spices

Now it’s time to add the rinsed lentils along with vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric. These spices not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant color to your soup.

Step 5: Boil & Simmer

Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender. This simmering process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Add Beans & Spinach

Stir in the butter beans and chopped spinach. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts down. Not only does this add nutrition but also brightens up your dish!

Step 7: Season & Serve

Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like an extra zing, serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over each bowl.

And there you have it! A delightful Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup that’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own while being light enough not to weigh you down. Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

Making this comforting soup is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate it to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality vegetable broth enhance the flavor significantly, making the soup taste vibrant and wholesome.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Don’t be shy to experiment with spices! A pinch of cayenne pepper or extra cumin can add depth and warmth. Tasting as you go ensures your soup is just right for you.
• Prep ahead: Chop your vegetables and rinse the lentils the night before. This saves time on busy days and makes putting the soup together even quicker.
• Make it creamy (optional): For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. This adds richness without any dairy, keeping it plant-based and delicious.
• Store leftovers properly: If you have extras, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How to Serve Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

Serving this soup is all about presentation and pairing it with tasty accompaniments that complement its flavors beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bowl.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving enhances the flavors and adds a lovely zing.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve alongside warm, crusty whole grain bread for dipping; its hearty texture pairs perfectly with the soup.
• Simple green salad: A light salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar balances the richness of the soup while adding crunch.
• Quinoa or rice: Offering a side of cooked quinoa or brown rice provides additional protein and makes for a heartier meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring extra nutrition and flavor to your table, making every bite delightful.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup will not only nourish but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every spoonful of this warming dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep! It stores well and only gets better as the flavors meld over time. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date, so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• Portion out the soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers to allow for expansion when freezing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use a microwave on defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it’s too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious soup!

How do I make Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup creamier?

You can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth. This will give it a creamier texture while still keeping all the flavors intact!

Can I use different vegetables in my Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any veggies you have on hand, like carrots or bell peppers. Just remember that cooking times may vary depending on what you choose.

Is Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later enjoyment without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about this cozy Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup! It’s not just nutritious but also incredibly filling—a true comfort food that warms both body and soul. Enjoy making this recipe at home, sharing it with loved ones, or simply savoring each spoonful by yourself. Happy cooking!