If you’ve ever craved the wholesome, comforting flavors of Panera’s veggie soup but wanted to whip up a homemade version, you’re in the right place! This recipe blog brings you not just one, but 10 variations of the classic Panera veggie soup that are bursting with fresh vegetables, herbs, and rich broth.
Whether you’re seeking a light lunch or a hearty dinner, these veggie soups are nutritious, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Perfect for any season, these recipes will bring warmth and color to your table.
Each recipe highlights a unique combination of vegetables and seasonings, inspired by Panera’s famous flavor profile but tailored to suit different tastes and dietary needs. You’ll find soups rich in greens, root vegetables, beans, and even some with a spicy kick.
If you’re a fan of vegetarian or vegan meals, or just love a good bowl of soup, these recipes are sure to become your new favorites. Dive in and start cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These 10 veggie soup recipes inspired by Panera are incredibly versatile and packed with nutrients. They are:
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these soups accessible for cooks of all levels.
- Healthy and filling: Loaded with fresh vegetables and legumes, they’re perfect for clean eating or weight management.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out veggies or spices to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Great for meal prep: These soups keep well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for busy weeks.
- Comforting and delicious: They capture that warm, hearty feel of Panera’s beloved soups without any preservatives.
Ingredients
Below is a foundational list of common ingredients used across the 10 veggie soup recipes. Individual recipes may feature additional unique ingredients.
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Olive oil | 2-3 tbsp | For sautéing vegetables |
Yellow onion | 1 large, diced | Base flavor |
Carrots | 3 medium, diced | Sweetness and texture |
Celery stalks | 2-3, diced | Classic mirepoix |
Garlic cloves | 3-4, minced | For aroma and depth |
Zucchini | 1 medium, diced | Light and fresh texture |
Green beans | 1 cup, chopped | Crunchy vegetable addition |
Tomatoes (diced or crushed) | 1 can (14.5 oz) or 2 fresh | Acidity and body |
Vegetable broth | 6 cups | Soup base |
Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) | 2 medium, peeled and diced | Heartiness |
Kale or spinach | 2 cups, chopped | Leafy greens for nutrition |
Herbs (thyme, parsley, bay leaf) | Varies | Fresh or dried for flavor |
Salt and black pepper | To taste | Seasoning essentials |
Lemon juice | 1-2 tbsp | For brightness (optional) |
Beans (cannellini or great northern) | 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed | Optional for protein |
Equipment
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven: For cooking the soup
- Cutting board and sharp knife: For prepping vegetables
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring
- Ladle: For serving the soup
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions
- Can opener: For canned tomatoes and beans
- Blender or immersion blender (optional): If you prefer a creamier texture for some variations
Instructions
- Prepare your vegetables: Wash, peel, and dice onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, and green beans as per recipe.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, careful not to burn it.
- Add potatoes and broth: Add diced potatoes and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add remaining vegetables: Stir in zucchini, green beans, tomatoes, and any additional veggies. Add herbs like thyme and bay leaf. Simmer for another 15-20 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
- Season your soup: Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. If using beans, stir them in now and heat through for about 5 minutes.
- Optional blending: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup to your preferred consistency.
- Finish with greens: Stir in chopped kale or spinach and cook for 3-5 minutes until wilted.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed before serving.
- Serve hot: Ladle into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or your favorite side.
Tips & Variations
“Make the soup your own by swapping in seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. For a protein boost, add beans or lentils.
For a spicy twist, sprinkle in some chili powder — here’s a great Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to try!”
- Use different greens: Try swiss chard, collard greens, or even arugula for varied flavor and texture.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream for a rich, velvety soup.
- Add grains: For a heartier meal, stir in cooked quinoa, barley, or brown rice.
- Slow cooker option: Place all ingredients except greens in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding greens at the end.
- Freeze leftovers: These soups freeze beautifully. Portion into airtight containers and thaw for quick meals.
Nutrition Facts
This veggie soup is a nutrition powerhouse. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 120-150 kcal |
Protein | 4-6 grams |
Fat | 3-5 grams (mostly healthy fats) |
Carbohydrates | 20-25 grams |
Fiber | 6-8 grams |
Vitamin A | Over 100% DV (from carrots and greens) |
Vitamin C | 35-50% DV |
Iron | 10-15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This veggie soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes to complete your meal. Try serving it alongside:
- Crusty artisan bread or garlic bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
- A fresh green salad: Light and crisp salads balance the warm soup nicely.
- Grilled cheese or vegan cheese sandwich: For a comforting classic combo.
- Quinoa or brown rice bowls: Spoon the soup over grains for a filling, protein-rich meal.
- Roasted vegetables: Adds texture and extra nutrition to your plate.
10 Veggie Soup Panera Recipe Variations
Classic Panera-Inspired Veggie Soup
The base recipe described above. Focus on carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, and kale in a savory vegetable broth.
White Bean and Kale Soup
- Add 1 can of cannellini beans for creaminess and protein.
- Include 2 cups kale, simmered until tender.
- Finish with a splash of lemon juice and fresh parsley.
Spicy Vegetable Medley Soup
- Add 1 tsp chili powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Include diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers for smoky flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of vegan sour cream or avocado slices.
Tomato Basil Veggie Soup
- Use 2 cups crushed tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
- Simmer with zucchini, carrots, and celery.
- Optional: Blend half the soup for a creamy texture.
Lentil and Root Vegetable Soup
- Add 1 cup dried red lentils (rinsed).
- Include diced carrots, parsnips, and potatoes.
- Simmer until lentils and vegetables are tender.
Butternut Squash and Spinach Soup
- Replace potatoes with 2 cups diced butternut squash.
- Include 2 cups fresh spinach at the end.
- Season with nutmeg and a splash of coconut milk.
Minestrone-Style Veggie Soup
- Add 1 cup cooked pasta or small shell noodles.
- Include green beans, zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and beans.
- Flavor with oregano, basil, and thyme.
Sweet Corn and Potato Chowder
- Add 1.5 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes and add 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk.
- Season with smoked paprika and black pepper.
Asian-Inspired Veggie Soup
- Use vegetable broth with a splash of soy sauce or tamari.
- Add bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, and green onions.
- Finish with fresh ginger, garlic, and a squeeze of lime.
Hearty Chickpea and Veggie Soup
- Add 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed.
- Include diced carrots, celery, potatoes, and spinach.
- Season with cumin, coriander, and fresh parsley.
- Add 1 tsp chili powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Include diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers for smoky flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of vegan sour cream or avocado slices.
Tomato Basil Veggie Soup
- Use 2 cups crushed tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
- Simmer with zucchini, carrots, and celery.
- Optional: Blend half the soup for a creamy texture.
Lentil and Root Vegetable Soup
- Add 1 cup dried red lentils (rinsed).
- Include diced carrots, parsnips, and potatoes.
- Simmer until lentils and vegetables are tender.
Butternut Squash and Spinach Soup
- Replace potatoes with 2 cups diced butternut squash.
- Include 2 cups fresh spinach at the end.
- Season with nutmeg and a splash of coconut milk.
Minestrone-Style Veggie Soup
- Add 1 cup cooked pasta or small shell noodles.
- Include green beans, zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and beans.
- Flavor with oregano, basil, and thyme.
Sweet Corn and Potato Chowder
- Add 1.5 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes and add 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk.
- Season with smoked paprika and black pepper.
Asian-Inspired Veggie Soup
- Use vegetable broth with a splash of soy sauce or tamari.
- Add bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, and green onions.
- Finish with fresh ginger, garlic, and a squeeze of lime.
Hearty Chickpea and Veggie Soup
- Add 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed.
- Include diced carrots, celery, potatoes, and spinach.
- Season with cumin, coriander, and fresh parsley.
- Add 1 cup dried red lentils (rinsed).
- Include diced carrots, parsnips, and potatoes.
- Simmer until lentils and vegetables are tender.
Butternut Squash and Spinach Soup
- Replace potatoes with 2 cups diced butternut squash.
- Include 2 cups fresh spinach at the end.
- Season with nutmeg and a splash of coconut milk.
Minestrone-Style Veggie Soup
- Add 1 cup cooked pasta or small shell noodles.
- Include green beans, zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and beans.
- Flavor with oregano, basil, and thyme.
Sweet Corn and Potato Chowder
- Add 1.5 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes and add 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk.
- Season with smoked paprika and black pepper.
Asian-Inspired Veggie Soup
- Use vegetable broth with a splash of soy sauce or tamari.
- Add bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, and green onions.
- Finish with fresh ginger, garlic, and a squeeze of lime.
Hearty Chickpea and Veggie Soup
- Add 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed.
- Include diced carrots, celery, potatoes, and spinach.
- Season with cumin, coriander, and fresh parsley.
- Add 1 cup cooked pasta or small shell noodles.
- Include green beans, zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and beans.
- Flavor with oregano, basil, and thyme.
Sweet Corn and Potato Chowder
- Add 1.5 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes and add 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk.
- Season with smoked paprika and black pepper.
Asian-Inspired Veggie Soup
- Use vegetable broth with a splash of soy sauce or tamari.
- Add bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, and green onions.
- Finish with fresh ginger, garlic, and a squeeze of lime.
Hearty Chickpea and Veggie Soup
- Add 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed.
- Include diced carrots, celery, potatoes, and spinach.
- Season with cumin, coriander, and fresh parsley.
- Use vegetable broth with a splash of soy sauce or tamari.
- Add bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, and green onions.
- Finish with fresh ginger, garlic, and a squeeze of lime.
Hearty Chickpea and Veggie Soup
- Add 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed.
- Include diced carrots, celery, potatoes, and spinach.
- Season with cumin, coriander, and fresh parsley.
For more exciting vegetarian recipes to complement your soup experience, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love.
If you love grain bowls, you might also enjoy Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal.
Conclusion
These 10 veggie soup recipes inspired by Panera bring comfort, nutrition, and versatility to your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a light broth-based soup or a hearty meal loaded with beans and grains, these recipes have you covered.
They are perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or a cozy night in. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome vegetables and fresh herbs, making them a delicious way to nourish your body.
With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy the taste of Panera’s beloved veggie soup anytime you want, customized to your own flavor preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these recipes and make them your own – soup is one of the most forgiving and adaptable dishes out there.
Happy cooking and stay warm!
📖 Recipe Card: 10 Veggie Soup Panera Recipe
Description: A hearty and wholesome vegetable soup inspired by Panera's classic recipe. Packed with ten fresh vegetables, it's perfect for a nutritious meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup kale, chopped
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Add carrots and celery; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in zucchini, green beans, corn, and tomatoes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 25 g
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