Cozy Spinach Lentil Butter Bean Soup
A warm and hearty soup packed with nutritious ingredients like lentils, butter beans, and fresh spinach, perfect for chilly weather.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Soup
Cuisine vegetarian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 220 kcal
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil This healthy fat adds flavor and helps sauté the vegetables.
- 1 medium onion, diced Onions provide a sweet and savory base for the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
- 2 medium carrots, diced Carrots bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 stalks celery, diced Celery adds crunch and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme This herb offers an earthy taste that complements the soup.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness and warmth.
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making the soup hearty.
- 6 cups vegetable broth A flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1 can (15 ounces) butter beans, drained and rinsed Butter beans add creaminess and additional nutrients.
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped Spinach brings freshness and a boost of vitamins.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
- 1 lemon Juice of Lemon juice brightens the soup and adds a zesty finish.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional minute.
Add rinsed lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
Once lentils are tender, stir in butter beans and chopped spinach. Cook for about 5 minutes until spinach wilts and beans are heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Squeeze juice of one lemon into the pot, stir, and serve the soup in bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Calories: 220kcalProtein: 10gSodium: 400mg
Keyword comfort food, healthy