Panera Veggie Soup Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

There’s nothing quite as comforting on a chilly day as a warm bowl of homemade vegetable soup. Inspired by the famous Panera Bread Veggie Soup, this recipe captures the essence of fresh, wholesome ingredients simmered to perfection.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this soup is a delightful option that satisfies the soul as well as the palate. Packed with vibrant vegetables, hearty beans, and a flavorful broth, it’s an easy-to-make meal that feels just like a hug in a bowl.

Not only is this soup nourishing and delicious, but it also comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prep for the week. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences or what’s available in your pantry.

So grab your ladle and let’s dive into making this classic veggie soup that rivals the beloved Panera original!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Panera Veggie Soup recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, healthy meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Loaded with fresh vegetables: Carrots, tomatoes, green beans, and more give the soup a colorful and nutrient-dense profile.
• Comfort food made healthy: This recipe uses a vegetable broth base and minimal oil, making it lighter but still full of flavor.
• Easy to customize: You can add your favorite veggies or swap beans to suit dietary needs.
• Great for meal prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge and freezes beautifully for future meals.
• Vegetarian and vegan friendly: Perfect for plant-based eaters or anyone looking to increase their veggie intake.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini or great northern beans work well)
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup baby spinach or kale, chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Colander (for rinsing beans)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and dice the onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, and trim the green beans. Mince the garlic cloves carefully.
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your stockpot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Add the veggies: Toss in the sliced carrots, celery, green beans, and zucchini. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in liquids and seasonings: Add the vegetable broth, canned diced tomatoes (with juice), dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
6. Add beans and corn: Stir in the rinsed white beans and corn kernels. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes until heated through.
7. Finish with greens: Add the baby spinach or kale and cook for 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted but still vibrant.
8. Season to taste: Taste your soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Tips & Variations

“Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have on hand—this soup is highly adaptable!”

• Make it gluten-free: This soup is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your broth brand to ensure no hidden gluten.
• Add grains: Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice to make the soup heartier and more filling.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for a subtle kick.
• Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh basil, oregano, or thyme, use them instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
• Protein boost: For extra protein, add cooked lentils or tofu cubes.
• Storage: This soup keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days and freezes perfectly for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Consider serving it with a slice of crusty whole grain bread or a warm garlic baguette for dipping.

For a lighter option, a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette complements the warm, hearty flavors of the soup perfectly. You might also enjoy it alongside our Banana Pancake Recipe Men Eat Vegan Too Made Easy for a cozy brunch twist.

For a protein-packed meal, add a side of roasted chickpeas or a small bowl of quinoa salad. The soup also works great as a starter before a larger vegetarian feast—check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for more ideas.

Conclusion

Making Panera-style veggie soup at home is easier than you might think and infinitely more rewarding. This recipe brings together the fresh, wholesome ingredients that make the original so beloved, with the added bonus of being customizable and budget-friendly.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this soup offers a delicious way to enjoy your veggies in a warm, comforting bowl.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add your favorite herbs and spices to make it uniquely yours. If you love hearty soups that nourish your body and soul, be sure to explore other fantastic vegetarian options like our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals or the flavorful Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal.

Enjoy your homemade Panera Veggie Soup—comfort and health in every spoonful!

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