Cabbage soup is one of those classic comfort foods that is not only nourishing but also versatile. Packed with wholesome vegetables and brimming with nutrients, this Healthy Cabbage Soup is perfect for those looking to indulge in a hearty yet low-calorie meal. It’s a great way to fuel your body while still keeping things light and refreshing. Whether you’re following a detox regimen, craving a nutritious meal, or just need something comforting, this soup has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Healthy Cabbage Soup is easy to prepare, delicious, and incredibly healthy. Made with fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, onions, and tomatoes, it’s full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s also naturally low in calories and packed with nutrients that promote a healthy digestive system. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. You can enjoy this soup as a stand-alone meal or pair it with your favorite protein for an extra boost of energy. It’s ideal for meal prep, too—simply make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added freshness)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the vegetables. Start by chopping the cabbage into thin strips. Peel and dice the carrots. Chop the onion, bell pepper, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Add the chopped carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
Step 4: Add the diced tomatoes (fresh or canned), vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the vegetables are well-coated with the herbs and broth.
Step 5: Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and check for seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: After simmering, remove the bay leaf and discard. If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This step is optional but adds a touch of color and flavor to the soup.
Variation:
- Add Protein: For an added boost of protein, consider adding some cooked chicken breast, lean ground turkey, or beans such as chickpeas or white beans.
- Spicy Version: If you love a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
- Creamy Option: To make the soup creamier, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender, and return it to the pot. You can also add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Low-Carb Version: To make this recipe even lower in carbs, swap out the carrots and potatoes for additional cabbage or other non-starchy vegetables like spinach, kale, or broccoli.
Cooking Note:
- If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to blend part of the soup as mentioned in the variation section. This will help create a heartier consistency.
- You can also let the soup cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. This makes it a great meal prep option.
- For even more flavor, let the soup sit overnight in the fridge. The flavors tend to develop and deepen with time.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Toasted Whole Grain Bread: Serve a bowl of this Healthy Cabbage Soup alongside a slice of toasted whole-grain bread for a satisfying, balanced meal.
- As a Starter: This soup makes a perfect appetizer for a healthy dinner, especially when paired with a lean protein such as grilled chicken or fish.
- As a Detox Meal: Because this soup is light and nutrient-dense, it’s perfect for those following a detox or cleansing regimen. Enjoy it on its own or as part of a cleanse.
Tips:
- Chop your vegetables uniformly: To ensure even cooking, try to chop your vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Depending on your preference, feel free to add more herbs or spices. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a spicier version.
- Make it ahead: Like many soups, this cabbage soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. It also freezes well, so make a double batch for later use.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 120 per serving
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg (depends on broth used)
FAQs:
1. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This Healthy Cabbage Soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags for storage. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
2. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, you can easily swap vegetable broth for chicken broth if you prefer. However, using vegetable broth will make this recipe completely vegetarian.
3. Is this soup suitable for a keto diet?
While cabbage is relatively low in carbs, other vegetables like carrots and zucchini do contain some carbohydrates. If you’re following a strict keto diet, you can reduce the amount of carrots and zucchini or replace them with more cabbage and leafy greens.
4. How can I make this soup spicier?
To add spice to the soup, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or even a dash of hot sauce. Adjust to your preferred heat level.
5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the soup has developed its flavors.
Conclusion:
This Healthy Cabbage Soup is a nutritious, delicious, and filling option that anyone can enjoy. It’s a great way to get a hearty meal packed with vegetables, vitamins, and fiber without feeling weighed down. Whether you’re eating it as a solo meal, pairing it with a protein, or using it as a side dish, this soup is versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. Plus, it’s easy to make, affordable, and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy the comfort and goodness of this vibrant, healthy cabbage soup today!