I’ve always loved the comforting flavors of Panera’s Ten Vegetable Soup. Every spoonful is packed with wholesome veggies and a rich broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. But did you know you can make this delicious soup right in your own kitchen?
With my copycat recipe, you’ll enjoy all the freshness and depth of the original without breaking the bank or waiting in line. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you recreate a beloved favorite that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Imagine filling your home with the fragrant aroma of simmering vegetables, knowing that each ingredient contributes to a bowl of wholesome goodness. From crisp carrots and tender green beans to hearty potatoes and sweet corn, this soup is a celebration of nature’s bounty. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the beloved Panera Ten Vegetable Soup to your own table.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Tools
To recreate Panera’s Ten Vegetable Soup, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are the essentials I use in my kitchen:
- Large Soup Pot
A 6 to 8-quart pot is perfect for simmering all the vegetables and allowing flavors to blend beautifully.
- Chef’s Knife
A sharp, high-quality chef’s knife ensures efficient and safe chopping of all the vegetables.
- Cutting Board
A spacious cutting board provides ample room for prepping carrots, celery, zucchini, and more.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of broth, olive oil, and seasonings are key to balancing the soup’s flavors.
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle
Ideal for stirring the soup and adjusting ingredients as they cook.
- Immersion Blender (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother texture, an immersion blender allows you to puree the soup directly in the pot.
- Vegetable Peeler
Perfect for peeling carrots and other vegetables to ensure even cooking.
- Colander
Use a colander to rinse canned vegetables or drain excess moisture from fresh produce.
Having these tools on hand will make preparing Panera’s Ten Vegetable Soup a breeze and help you achieve that rich, comforting flavor every time.
Instructions
Follow these steps to recreate Panera’s Ten Vegetable Soup in your own kitchen. Each stage is simple and straightforward, ensuring a delicious result every time.
Prep
- Chop the Vegetables
- Dice 1 large onion.
- Mince 3 cloves of garlic.
- Slice 3 carrots into ½-inch pieces.
- Chop 2 celery stalks.
- Cut 1 zucchini into ½-inch cubes.
- Trim and cut 1 cup of green beans into 1-inch pieces.
- Measure 1 cup of corn kernels.
- Roughly chop 2 cups of kale.
- Spin 2 cups of fresh spinach.
- Prepare the Tomatoes
- Open a 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes and set aside.
- Measure the Broth and Seasonings
- Have 6 cups of vegetable broth ready.
- Measure out 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Prepare 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Set aside 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
Cook
- Sauté the Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables
- Incorporate the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and zucchini into the pot.
- Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Pour in Tomatoes and Broth
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juice to the pot.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Season the Soup
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried basil.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add Remaining Vegetables
- Add the green beans, corn, kale, and spinach to the pot.
- Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 10 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
Assemble
- Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy
- Serve the soup warm with your favorite crusty bread or a side salad for a complete, nourishing meal.
| Ingredients Measurements |
|---|
| Olive oil |
| Onion |
| Garlic |
| Carrots |
| Celery stalks |
| Zucchini |
| Green beans |
| Corn kernels |
| Kale |
| Spinach |
| Diced tomatoes |
| Vegetable broth |
| Salt |
| Black pepper |
| Dried thyme |
| Dried basil |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Panera’s Ten Vegetable Soup ahead of time not only saves you time during busy weekdays but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. Here’s how I ensure my soup is always ready to enjoy when I need it:
Storage Guidelines
- Cooling: After cooking, allow the soup to cool at room temperature for no more than two hours. This prevents bacterial growth and preserves freshness.
- Containers: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. Glass mason jars or BPA-free plastic containers work best for maintaining flavor and preventing leaks.
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers or freezer-safe bags. It can last up to three months without losing its rich taste and texture.
Reheating Instructions
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator for even heating.
- Stovetop Method: Pour the desired amount of soup into a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a gentle simmer. This method retains the soup’s vibrant flavors and textures.
- Microwave Method: Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and heat on high in 2-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This method is quick and convenient for single servings.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the soup thickens upon storage, add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to achieve your preferred consistency.
Freezing Tips
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Portioning | Divide the soup into meal-sized portions. |
| Packaging | Use freezer-safe containers or bags. |
| Labeling | Note the date and contents on each package. |
| Freezing | Place flat in the freezer for efficient storage. |
Flavor Enhancement
Making the soup ahead allows the flavors to deepen and develop. I often find that letting the soup sit overnight in the refrigerator enhances its richness. Before serving, give it a good stir and adjust the seasoning with fresh herbs or a pinch of salt to brighten the flavors.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy a hearty and nutritious bowl of Panera’s Ten Vegetable Soup anytime with minimal effort. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a gathering, this soup remains a comforting and delicious choice.
Serving Suggestions
Elevating my Panera Ten Vegetable Soup copycat recipe is all about the perfect pairings and delightful garnishes. Here’s how I like to serve it for a complete and satisfying meal:
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme adds a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: A handful of Parmesan enhances the soup’s savory notes.
- Croutons: Crunchy croutons provide a wonderful texture contrast.
- Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every last drop.
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty soup beautifully.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pairing with a classic grilled cheese sandwich makes for a comforting and complete meal.
Beverages
| Beverage | Description |
|---|---|
| Sauvignon Blanc | A light white wine that pairs well with fresh vegetables. |
| Herbal Tea | A soothing herbal tea balances the savory flavors. |
| Sparkling Water | Adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. |
Presentation Tips
- Bowl Selection: Use deep, wide bowls to showcase the vibrant vegetables and hearty broth.
- Layering Ingredients: Artfully layer your garnishes on top for an appealing presentation.
- Color Contrast: Combine different colors in your garnishes to make the dish visually enticing.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can transform your homemade Ten Vegetable Soup into a restaurant-quality meal that’s both delicious and visually stunning.
Conclusion
Making Panera’s Ten Vegetable Soup at home has been such a rewarding experience for me. There’s something special about creating a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. I hope you enjoy every step of the process and find joy in every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
