Easy Homemade Soup for Dinner

Name: Easy Homemade Soup for Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I wanted a comforting and delicious meal, I turned to this Easy Homemade Soup recipe. With a heartwarming blend of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, it’s the perfect dish for chilly evenings. I love how simple it is to prepare, making it not only satisfying but also an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The vibrant flavors not only warm the soul but also fill the kitchen with an inviting aroma that makes everyone eager for dinner. No matter your experience level, you'll find this soup easy to make the centerpiece of your meal.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:52:15.927Z

Creating this Easy Homemade Soup was a delightful journey as I experimented with the balance of flavors. I wanted something that not only nourished but also satisfied taste buds with every spoonful. I found that sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth truly enhanced their flavors, resulting in a rich and savory base.

The addition of fresh herbs at the end of cooking brought the soup to life, adding brightness and depth. This is a recipe that I can adjust based on what I have in my fridge, making it endlessly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love This Soup
        Incredibly simple to make with fresh ingredients
Comforting flavors that warm you from the inside out
Versatile recipe that can adapt to whatever vegetables you have on hand

      

Key Cooking Techniques

When making this soup, the sautéing technique is crucial for building depth of flavor. Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat until it's shimmering. This indicates it's hot enough to release the natural sugars in the onion and carrots, creating a sweet base. Aim for the vegetables to become translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Avoid browning them too much; the goal is to soften them while avoiding a burnt flavor.

An essential step is allowing the broth to simmer gently after adding the tomatoes and thyme. This slow cooking helps the flavors meld beautifully, and preventing the soup from boiling too vigorously ensures it doesn’t reduce too much. Keep the heat at a medium-low simmer so the ingredients can release their flavors without losing the integrity of the vegetables. A gentle boil is often sufficient to maintain that comforting texture.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh spinach in this soup not only enhances its color but also boosts its nutrient profile. If fresh is not available, you can substitute with frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding. This ensures your soup maintains the right texture without becoming too watery. Fresh herbs could also elevate the flavor—consider adding a handful of parsley or basil at the end for a fresh aroma.

The choice between vegetable and chicken broth can significantly alter the soup's flavor. If you're seeking a vegetarian option, stick to vegetable broth, which will highlight the freshness of the vegetables. For a more robust and savory taste, chicken broth works exceptionally well. Ideally, select a low-sodium version of either; you can always add salt but it’s harder to fix an overly salty dish.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach

Enjoy your delicious soup!

Preparation Steps

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the broth and add the diced tomatoes along with the thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

Finish with Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 5 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any other vegetables you love or have on hand. This soup is perfect for using up leftovers!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Easy Homemade Soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep the spinach separate if possible; add it during reheating to maintain its vibrant color and texture. The flavors marry beautifully if left overnight, making the soup even more delicious the next day.

If you're looking to store the soup for longer, consider freezing portions in airtight containers. Make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to avoid condensation which can make the soup watery. It should keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

For a heartier meal, consider serving this soup alongside a crusty loaf of bread or a light salad. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top can add a wonderful creamy finish. I love topping it off with fresh herbs to provide an extra pop of flavor and color. Thinly sliced green onions or fresh basil can provide a refreshing bite that complements the savory elements of the soup.

You could also experiment with adding protein, such as cooked chicken or beans, to make it even more filling. If you're looking to add a little kick, try a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. This soup is versatile enough to cater to your cravings while keeping the healthy elements intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What can I substitute for fresh spinach?

Kale or chard can be great substitutes if you're looking for a different leafy green.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and omit any meat-based additions.

→ How can I add more protein to the soup?

You can add cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken to enhance the protein content.