Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup: A Hearty and Nutritious Comfort Food

When the weather cools down and you’re craving a warm, hearty, and nutritious meal, there’s nothing better than a comforting bowl of soup. Spinach, lentil, and butter bean soup combines three powerhouse ingredients that are not only packed with essential nutrients but also create a rich, flavorful dish that will satisfy your hunger and nourish your body.

This soup is a great option for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based meal. With the earthy flavor of lentils, the creamy texture of butter beans, and the freshness of spinach, this soup is a complete meal in one bowl.

Why You’ll Love Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

1. Packed with Nutrients: Lentils and butter beans are both excellent sources of protein, fiber, and essential minerals, making this soup an incredibly nourishing choice for anyone looking to boost their health.
2. High in Fiber: With the addition of lentils and beans, this soup provides a hefty dose of fiber, which promotes digestive health, keeps you feeling full longer, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
3. Vegan and Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide variety of dietary needs and preferences.
4. Hearty and Filling: Thanks to the lentils and butter beans, this soup is very filling, so you won’t be left feeling hungry after a bowl.
5. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this soup an easy option to cook for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week.

Ingredients for Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

To make this nourishing soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils (or 2 cups cooked lentils, if preferred)
• 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or more for your desired consistency)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups fresh spinach (or more if you love spinach)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra warmth)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon (for a burst of freshness)
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or cilantro, a drizzle of olive oil

Instructions: How to Make Spinach, Lentil, and Butter Bean Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils

If you’re using dried lentils, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Lentils don’t require soaking, so once rinsed, they’re ready to go. If you’re using canned lentils, you can skip this step and move directly to cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the garlic, dried thyme, oregano, and cumin (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Lentils

1. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer.
2. Add the dried lentils, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed some of the broth.

Step 4: Add the Butter Beans and Spinach

1. Once the lentils are tender, stir in the butter beans and spinach.
2. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the beans are heated through.

Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning

1. Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
2. Add the lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaf and discard.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
3. Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for dipping, and enjoy your hearty, nutrient-packed meal.

Why This Soup Is So Great

• Rich in Plant-Based Protein: Lentils and butter beans are both excellent sources of plant-based protein, making this soup perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to reduce their meat intake.
• Packed with Fiber: Both lentils and butter beans are fiber-rich foods, which help regulate digestion, support gut health, and keep you feeling full for longer. This makes the soup a great choice for those looking to manage their weight or blood sugar levels.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The spinach adds a vibrant, green color and a fresh taste, while the cumin and lemon juice give the soup a depth of flavor that is both comforting and refreshing.
• Easy to Make and Budget-Friendly: This soup is made with simple, affordable ingredients, making it a budget-friendly option for meal prep, especially since it yields a large batch that can be enjoyed for several days.
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