Easy Hearty Lentil Spinach Soup for Busy Weeknights

There’s something deeply grounding about a pot of lentil soup quietly bubbling away, filling the kitchen with warmth and spice. This is the kind of meal that feels like a pause button on a busy day. I often make this soup when the weather cools and evenings stretch a little longer, when comfort matters more than speed but ease still matters. Lentils have always felt like a humble miracle ingredient to me — nourishing, affordable, and endlessly forgiving.

What I love most about this soup is how it brings together simple pantry staples and turns them into something soulful. The ginger and garlic hit the pot first, releasing that familiar aroma that signals something good is coming. The lentils soften into a creamy, hearty base while the coconut milk adds a gentle richness that makes every spoonful feel indulgent without being heavy. Fresh spinach at the end keeps everything bright and balanced.

This is the kind of recipe you make once and then keep coming back to, tweaking it slightly depending on what you have on hand. It’s perfect for quiet dinners, meal prep Sundays, or sharing with someone who needs a little extra comfort in a bowl.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hearty Lentil Spinach Soup :

Step 1 :

Set the Instant Pot to sauté and add the chopped onion, grated garlic, and ginger. Cook until translucent, stirring with a Cuisinart Silicone Spatula, but any spoon from your drawer works just fine.

Step 2 :

Rinse the red and French lentils thoroughly. Add them to the pot along with the hand-squeezed tomatoes and stir using a OXO Good Grips 3 Quart Mixing Bowl beforehand if needed — no fancy prep required.

Step 3 :

Add all the spices, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so everything is evenly coated and fragrant.

Step 4 :

Pour in the water or vegetable broth, seal the lid, and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. I rely on my Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1, but any pressure cooker works.

Step 5 :

Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release. Stir in coconut milk, lemon juice, and spinach until wilted. Adjust thickness with water if needed and serve hot.

Who This Hearty Lentil Spinach Soup Is Perfect For

Kid-Friendly :

Soft, creamy lentils with tender spinach make this soup easy to eat
Mildly spiced and easily adjustable by reducing cayenne
Comforting, cozy flavors kids often enjoy
No harsh textures or overpowering spices

Fitness-Focused Benefits :

High plant-based protein from red and green lentils supports muscle recovery
High fiber keeps you full and supports digestion
Healthy fats from coconut milk aid satiety
Naturally nutrient-dense with iron, magnesium, and folate for energy

Busy-Life Adults Advantages :

One-pot Instant Pot recipe means minimal cleanup
Simple prep with mostly hands-off cooking
Excellent for meal prep and reheats well for 3–4 days
Perfect for quick lunches, easy dinners, or freezer-friendly meals

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