Short Description
This Hearty Veggie-Packed Cabbage Soup is a nutritious, comforting, and flavorful dish loaded with cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, celery, and beans in a savory broth. It’s perfect for a healthy meal that’s filling yet low in calories, making it a great option for weight loss, detox, or just warming up on a chilly day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with fiber and nutrients
- Low in calories but still hearty and satisfying
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free
- Easy one-pot meal with simple ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep—flavors deepen over time
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Soup Base:
- Olive oil
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Carrots, diced
- Celery, chopped
- Green cabbage, chopped
- Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- Vegetable broth
- Tomato paste
- Kidney beans or cannellini beans (optional for protein)
Seasoning & Spices:
- Salt and black pepper
- Italian seasoning
- Smoked paprika
- Bay leaves
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan (if not vegan)
- Lemon wedges
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add Cabbage and Tomatoes
- Stir in chopped cabbage and cook for 2 minutes until slightly wilted.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
- Stir in beans (if using) and cook for 5 more minutes.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, Parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Protein Boost: Stir in lentils or chickpeas.
- Meaty Version: Add cooked ground turkey or sausage.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip beans and use cauliflower instead.
- Creamy Version: Stir in coconut milk for a richer texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in portion-sized containers.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes! The flavor is similar, but the color may darken the broth.
Is this soup good for weight loss?
Yes! It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and nutrient-dense.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
What’s the best broth to use?
Vegetable broth keeps it vegan, but chicken broth adds extra flavor.
Can I add potatoes?
Yes! Diced potatoes make it even heartier.
How do I make the soup thicker?
Mash some beans or add more tomato paste.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release.
Does this soup freeze well?
Yes! Just let it cool before freezing in portions.
What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese make great pairings.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use 4–5 chopped fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
Conclusion
This Hearty Veggie-Packed Cabbage Soup is a nutritious, delicious, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re looking for a healthy detox soup or just a comforting bowl of goodness, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor!
Print
Hearty Veggie-Packed Cabbage Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Healthy
Description
This Hearty Veggie-Packed Cabbage Soup is a nutritious, comforting, and flavorful dish loaded with cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, and beans. It’s low in calories yet rich in fiber and vitamins, making it perfect for a healthy meal or light detox. Enjoy a warm bowl on a chilly day!
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 carrots (sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 1 small green cabbage (chopped, about 6 cups)
- 1 zucchini (diced, optional)
- 1 bell pepper (diced, any color)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or water with bouillon cubes)
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans or kidney beans (drained & rinsed, optional for protein)
Seasonings & Spices:
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for richness, optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for umami, or soy sauce for vegan option)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Squeeze of fresh lemon juice (brightens the flavors!)
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Soup
- Add cabbage, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the Beans & Final Touches
- Stir in beans (if using) and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side of rice for a heartier meal!
Notes
- Make it heartier: Add potatoes, lentils, or quinoa.
- Prefer a smoky flavor? Add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked sausage.
- Want a spicy kick? Stir in extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.