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; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 2 cups chopped greens (spinach or kale); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I truly believe that a delicious soup can turn a simple dinner into something special. This Easy Homemade Soup combines fresh ingredients with comforting flavors, creating a meal that warms both the body and soul. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, I've found that this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Making it from scratch not only ensures quality but also allows for customization, so you can enjoy it just the way you like it.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:10:21.391Z

Experimenting with soup recipes has always been a joy for me. I've tried numerous versions, but this one stands out because of its simplicity and rich flavor. Using fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables can elevate the taste and make it remarkably satisfying. For this one, I focused on balancing the umami of the broth with vibrant veggies, which is something I believe brings the soup to life.

One tip I've learned along the way is to always taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Each ingredient has its own personality, and some need a little more love—like a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice—to truly shine. I often add a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving for an extra pop of flavor.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
Versatile, so you can use whatever veggies you have on hand
Cozy and comforting, making it a family favorite

      

Understanding the Base Flavors

The foundation of any good soup lies in its base flavors. In this Easy Homemade Soup, the combination of sautéed onions, carrots, and celery, known as mirepoix, is critical for building depth. Cooking these vegetables until they are softened and slightly translucent ensures they release their natural sugars, resulting in a sweeter, more complex flavor profile. This process generally takes about 5 minutes over medium heat, so be patient and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Garlic plays an equally important role, providing a punch of flavor that enhances the overall taste. Adding it just after the mirepoix softens allows it to infuse the oil without burning, which can turn the flavor bitter. For best results, crush your garlic instead of mincing it too finely; this will help release essential oils and flavors more effectively.

Customizing Your Soup

The beauty of this soup is its versatility. You can easily tailor the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or garden. If you're looking to up the protein content, consider adding cooked beans or lentils; they can be stirred in just before serving. If you're avoiding gluten, make sure to check that your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free—it’s vital for those with dietary restrictions.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to elevate the flavor. For instance, adding a pinch of smoked paprika can introduce a delightful smoky essence, while a bay leaf added during the simmering phase deepens the soup's complexity, imparting a subtle earthiness. Remember to taste as you go; this will help you find the balance that suits your palate perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a wonderful homemade soup.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
2 cups chopped greens (spinach or kale)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure you have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your soup.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Incorporate the Greens

Stir in the chopped greens and dried oregano. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious homemade soup with some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For added protein, you can incorporate beans or lentils. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables depending on what's in season or what you have available.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Easy Homemade Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. When storing, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This prevents condensation, which can dilute the flavors. Additionally, if you plan to store it longer, consider freezing in individual portions; it should last about 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating is easy; just transfer your soup to a pot and heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. If the soup appears too thick after freezing, add a little extra broth or water during the reheating process to regain the desired texture.

Servings and Pairing Suggestions

This soup is not only comforting on its own but can also be elevated with simple side dishes. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a more complete meal. If you're hosting, consider a cheese platter as a starter: the richness of cheese pairs beautifully with the warm, soothing soup.

For a unique twist, consider garnishing with a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before serving. This could add dimension and an extra burst of flavor, making every bowl feel like a gourmet experience. I often recommend offering a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their soup to their liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup holds up well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for later use.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use chicken broth or water with veggie bouillon cubes for a similar taste.

→ How can I make this soup creamier?

You can blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in for a creamier texture or add a splash of heavy cream.

→ What are some good toppings for the soup?

Consider adding croutons, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.