Homemade Soup Recipe

Name: Homemade Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach (optional); Lemon juice to taste (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making my own homemade soup, especially during chilly days when a warm bowl feels like a hug for the soul. This recipe combines fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a rich and savory broth that comforts every time. Each time I make it, I explore different seasonal ingredients to keep the recipe exciting! The method is simple yet rewarding, and it allows me to customize flavors according to what I have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients for my family.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:43:11.615Z

Whenever I make homemade soup, it feels like a culinary adventure. I often experiment with different herbs and spices, and each bowl I serve comes with its unique twist. Last week, I added a splash of lemon juice right before serving, adding a bright flavor that my family absolutely loved!

One of my favorite tips is to use leftover vegetables or unused bits from the pantry; every bowl is a chance to reduce waste and create something delicious. I find that blending in some fresh spinach at the end gives the soup not only a vibrant color but also a nutritious boost!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting flavors that warm the heart
Flexible recipe that adapts to seasonal ingredients
A nourishing option that packs in vitamins and minerals

      

Mastering the Soup Base

Creating a strong base is crucial for any soup, and this recipe is no exception. Starting with sautéing onions and garlic not only provides a depth of flavor but also enhances the overall aroma of the dish. You should aim for your onions to turn translucent, which typically takes about five minutes over medium heat. If you notice them browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent bitterness.

The addition of diced carrots and celery introduces a nice sweetness and texture to the broth. As you stir these ingredients together, keep an eye on them; about five minutes should suffice for them to soften without losing their crunch. This balance between sautéed and fresh vegetables is key to achieving the perfect mouthfeel.

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs

Using dried thyme and basil is essential in elevating the flavor profile of your soup. These herbs bring earthiness and a fragrant quality that pairs wonderfully with the fresh ingredients. Be careful not to overdo it; a teaspoon of each is generally ideal. If you prefer, fresh herbs can be used—just double the quantity for a vibrant taste boost. Adding them at this stage allows their oils to infuse into the broth fully.

Don't forget to taste and adjust as you go, especially after you add salt and pepper. Remember, seasoning is a dynamic process! You may find you want a little more salt depending on the broth's saltiness, or perhaps a squeeze of lemon for brightness. This hands-on approach to seasoning is what makes homemade soups truly exceptional.

Serving and Storing Your Soup

Serving the soup steaming hot is essential. The comforting warmth provides a delightful experience on chilly days. A splash of lemon juice not only brightens up the flavors but adds a fresh finish that can elevate your whole dish. I like to serve this soup with a crusty piece of bread or crackers to enhance the meal; the contrast in textures is satisfying.

If you have leftovers, they can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This soup also freezes beautifully! Just make sure to leave out any fresh spinach and lemon juice if you plan to freeze it; you can add those in when reheating for the best results. When reheating, do it gently over low heat to maintain the soup's texture without boiling.

Ingredients

Homemade Soup Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Lemon juice to taste (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Root Vegetables

Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in the dried thyme and basil, then season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.

Add Spinach and Serve

If using, stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve hot with a splash of lemon juice if desired.

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce during simmering. This can enhance the umami profile of your soup, making it even more satisfying.

Ingredient Substitutions

This soup is incredibly flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your pantry's contents or dietary preferences. For a heartier version, consider adding beans or lentils; they not only boost fiber content but also add protein. If you prefer a meatier soup, shredded rotisserie chicken can be stirred in towards the end of cooking to heat through.

If you're looking for a low-sodium option, homemade broth is a great substitute for store-bought. Simply simmer leftover vegetable scraps with water for several hours. Also, feel free to swap out vegetables; zucchini or bell peppers can make delightful additions, especially in the summer months.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making soup is a bland flavor. If you find this happens, don't hesitate to adjust your seasonings with additional herbs, salt, or even a dash of hot sauce if you prefer some heat. I recommend tasting frequently during the cooking process to catch any flavor imbalances before the soup is done.

Another potential pitfall is overcooking the vegetables, which can lead to mushiness. To avoid this, keep your heat at a medium simmer rather than a rapid boil once the soup comes together. A little crunch in your vegetables provides texture that complements the broth beautifully.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger batch of this soup for meal prep or a gathering, scaling it up is straightforward. Simply double or triple the ingredient quantities, keeping the same ratios. However, be mindful that increasing the batch size may require a larger pot to prevent overflow during cooking.

Additionally, larger quantities may need extra time to simmer. Monitor the soup closely and taste as you go, particularly ensuring that the flavors meld nicely throughout. You might find that a bit more seasoning may be necessary when scaling up, as larger amounts can sometimes dilute the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be used directly in the recipe, just add them during the simmering step.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth. Always check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omit any meat ingredients if included.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, this soup tastes great the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.