Easy Soup Dinner Recipe

Soup is the perfect dinner choice, whether you’re craving something hearty and filling or just need a light meal to warm you up after a long day. It’s quick, easy, and, most importantly, comforting. Imagine sitting down with a bowl of homemade soup, fresh from the stovetop, full of vibrant vegetables, tender proteins, and aromatic herbs. The steam rises, and the first spoonful feels like a warm hug.

If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and satisfying soup to whip up for dinner, you’re in the right place! This soup recipe is designed to be quick and easy, with minimal ingredients but maximum flavor. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced chef, this soup will make you feel like a culinary expert with hardly any effort.

Here’s a cozy, nutritious, and satisfying soup that you can make with just a few simple ingredients and in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and filling but don’t have a ton of time to spend on prep. This recipe is flexible, so you can easily adapt it to what you have in your pantry or fridge. Ready to make a comforting bowl of soup? Let’s dive in.

Ingredients Needed

1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and creating a rich base for the soup.
1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic enhances the overall taste and provides aromatic warmth.
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped – Carrots add natural sweetness and color to the soup.
2 celery stalks, chopped – For a slightly earthy and crunchy texture.
1 medium potato, peeled and cubed – Gives the soup a creamy base and makes it more filling.
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth) – The liquid foundation of the soup, adding a savory depth.
1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – Provides acidity and brightness that balances the richness of the broth.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a warm, earthy herb flavor.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Works in tandem with thyme for a classic herb profile.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Seasoning is key to bringing all the flavors together.
1 cup spinach (optional) – For an extra dose of greens and a fresh, vibrant color.
1/2 cup small pasta or rice (optional) – Makes the soup more filling and adds texture.

Cooking Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and slightly translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.
Toss in the chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the vegetables to release their flavors and begin to soften.
Pour in the vegetable broth and canned tomatoes, followed by the dried thyme and oregano. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
Lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. If you’re adding pasta or rice, stir it in during the last 8 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a little more thyme or oregano depending on your flavor preferences.
If you’re adding spinach, toss it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a burst of color and a nutritional boost to the soup.
Serve the soup hot in bowls and enjoy! It’s perfect with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup has its own story and health benefits:

Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that gives the soup a smooth base. It’s also rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Onion and Garlic: These are the flavor foundations of the soup. Garlic has been shown to have immune-boosting properties, while onions contain antioxidants and promote good digestion.
Carrots and Celery: Together, they provide a delightful crunch and natural sweetness. Carrots are high in beta-carotene (vitamin A), which is great for eye health, while celery is low in calories but high in fiber.
Potato: Potatoes offer a satisfying texture and are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
Vegetable Broth: This forms the base of the soup. If you’re using a homemade broth, you can control the sodium levels, but store-bought options work fine for quickness.
Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes add a bit of acidity to balance out the other flavors.
Herbs: Thyme and oregano are packed with antioxidants and add a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and fresh.
Spinach: If you’re adding it, spinach is loaded with iron, vitamin K, and folate, contributing both flavor and nutritional value.

Expert Tips

Make it heartier: If you want a more substantial meal, add chopped chicken or beans like cannellini or kidney beans. This will turn the soup into a one-pot meal.
Use fresh herbs: If you have access to fresh thyme or oregano, use them instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor. You’ll need about 3 times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried.
Don’t skip the seasoning: Taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper multiple times as it cooks. The flavors develop throughout the process, and a pinch of salt can make all the difference.
Blend for a creamy texture: For a creamy soup without cream, blend half of the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender. It’ll thicken naturally without any added fat.
Make it your own: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand, like zucchini, peas, or bell peppers.

Recipe Variations

Italian-Inspired: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a handful of fresh basil at the end, and some Parmesan cheese on top for a flavorful Italian twist.
Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeño or chili flakes for a little heat. This variation is perfect if you like your soup with a spicy kick.
Creamy Comfort: If you prefer creamy soups, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Vegan Version: To make this soup fully vegan, simply swap the vegetable broth for a vegan variety, and leave out any dairy toppings.
Slow Cooker Version: You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Just throw all the ingredients in and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding salt and pepper at the end.

Final Words

This easy soup recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something delicious, warm, and nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s versatile, so you can make it with whatever vegetables and seasonings you have on hand. Plus, it’s the kind of recipe that gets better the longer it sits, making it an ideal choice for leftovers.

Whether you’re serving it up for your family, friends, or just enjoying a cozy dinner by yourself, this soup will hit the spot. It’s simple yet full of flavor, and it will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Easy Soup Dinner Recipe