If you’re looking for a comforting, nourishing dish that fits perfectly into a wholesome lifestyle, this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together crisp cabbage, fresh carrots, and savory celery with bright tomatoes and garlic in a flavorful broth that’s both light and satisfying. Whether you’re warming up after a long day or wanting to fuel your body with a nutrient-rich meal, this soup serves up a bowlful of goodness that you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients, each one bringing something special to the pot. You’ll find fresh vegetables deliver texture and color, aromatic garlic and onions build a deep flavor base, while the broth makes it all come alive in a soothing, hearty way.
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped: Adds crunch and vibrant green color along with fiber that supports digestion.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced: Bring a slight sweetness and bright orange hue that complement the cabbage beautifully.
- 3 stalks celery, chopped: Offers a subtle crunch and fresh, green flavor that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and richness to the broth, giving a lovely brightness to the soup.
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth: Keeps the soup light while enhancing all the vegetable flavors without overpowering them.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Injects warm, aromatic depth essential for that comforting soup feeling.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Builds a savory foundation that elevates the entire dish from the start.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to round out flavors naturally and let the vegetables shine.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle earthiness and complexity during simmering, tying the ingredients together.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional): Provides a final bright zing that lifts the soup just before serving.
How to Make Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Begin by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic and cook them slowly until they turn translucent and fragrant. This step lays down a rich, savory base flavor that permeates the soup from bottom to top.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Next, add the chopped green cabbage, sliced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Give everything a good stir and sauté these veggies for about five minutes. This not only softens them slightly but also deepens their natural sweetness and crunch, making every spoonful more satisfying.
Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth along with the can of diced tomatoes. Stir the mixture well so the tomatoes distribute evenly, promising bursts of tangy flavor throughout the soup.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Now it’s time to add your seasonings: salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking melds the vegetables and herbs together perfectly, softening everything just right and filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Step 5: Final Touches
Before serving, remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning if needed, then stir in the optional lemon juice for a refreshing pop of brightness that simmers away any heaviness, making this soup feel truly light and lively.
How to Serve Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh garnishes can really make your Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe shine. Try sprinkling some chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan also works beautifully for creaminess and extra flavor.
Side Dishes
This soup is comforting enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad makes for a wonderfully balanced meal. The bread is perfect for dipping, soaking up every drop of that flavorful broth.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic feel. You can also stack some croutons and drizzle a little olive oil on top just before serving. If you’re serving guests, individual ramekins garnished with fresh herbs add that extra touch of elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container so all those wonderful flavors stay fresh and vibrant. Leftovers often taste even better since the ingredients have time to marry.
Freezing
You can definitely freeze this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe! Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It stays delicious for up to 3 months and is a perfect meal prep option when you want something quick and healthy on hand.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep the cabbage tender and the flavors balanced. If needed, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the soup to your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage for this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is traditional, you can substitute with savoy or napa cabbage for slightly different textures and flavors. Each variety adds its unique touch, making the soup your own.
Is this soup suitable for a low-calorie diet?
Yes, this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it an excellent choice for anyone watching their calorie intake without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Can I add protein to the soup?
Definitely! To boost protein, consider stirring in cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken towards the end of cooking. These additions make the soup heartier while maintaining its wholesome nature.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, toss in chopped fresh jalapeños during the sauté step or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top when serving. A dash of hot sauce also works wonders without overpowering the soup’s natural flavors.
Can I prepare this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! After sautéing the onions and garlic, place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Just remember to add the lemon juice at the very end to preserve its fresh tang.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a warm bowl of this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe that feels like a hug from the inside out. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and perfectly suited to anyone seeking a nutritious, loving meal. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do — it just might become your new go-to dish for healthy, satisfying comfort food.
Print
Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This healthy cabbage soup is a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for nourishing your body. Loaded with fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and celery, and simmered in a flavorful vegetable broth with tomatoes and aromatic garlic and onions, this soup is both light and satisfying. It’s an easy, low-sodium recipe ideal for a wholesome lunch or dinner that supports well-being and is simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about five minutes to soften and develop flavor.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes. Stir to combine evenly with the vegetables.
- Season and Simmer: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and add a bay leaf. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice if desired for a bright, fresh flavor. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid further.
- Adding lemon juice at the end enhances the soup’s brightness and balances flavors.
- You can substitute cabbage with savoy or red cabbage for a different texture and color.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- To make it vegan, ensure the vegetable broth is free from animal products.
