Healthy cabbage soup is a versatile dish. You can enjoy it as a light meal or add it to a larger feast. Pairing it with crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh garden salad elevates the experience. You may also consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier option.

Another fantastic side is a tangy coleslaw laced with a hint of lemon; this complements the soup’s flavor perfectly. If you enjoy a little spice, sprinkle some chili flakes on your bowl before diving in. Oh, and don’t forget a generous dollop of sour cream or yogurt at the end—trust me, it’s a delightful touch!

Let me take you on a comforting journey into the world of healthy cabbage soup. I can still remember the first time I tasted this delightful dish. The warmth, the aroma, and the wholesome ingredients left me feeling nourished and light. You see, cabbage soup isn’t just another recipe—it’s a gateway to health, flavor, and simplicity. Packed with nutrients and great taste, it has comfort food written all over it.

As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve experimented with countless recipes. Among them, healthy cabbage soup stands out. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it also offers a fantastic way to sneak in your veggies. Whether you’re looking to shed a few pounds or simply want a satisfying meal, this soup fits the bill. So, let’s dive into what makes healthy cabbage soup a beloved favorite!

What is Healthy Cabbage Soup?

At its core, healthy cabbage soup is a hearty vegetable-based soup that highlights cabbage as a primary ingredient. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You can create a pot of deliciousness with just a few ingredients.

Using cabbage as the main star allows for a low-calorie, high-fiber dish that fills you up without weighing you down. The addition of vegetables, herbs, and spices adds layers of flavor that keep your taste buds happy.

Nutritionally, cabbage is a powerhouse. It is rich in vitamins C and K, providing antioxidant benefits. When combined with other vegetables, like carrots and celery, it turns into a balanced dish that’s not just good for your taste buds but for your overall health.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Cabbage Soup

Here’s the kicker—this healthy cabbage soup has something for everyone. If you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, you’ll find this recipe incredibly helpful. The soup is bursting with flavors, yet it’s light enough to enjoy any time of day.

One of the best aspects of this soup is its versatility. Not a fan of cabbage? You can swap it out for kale or spinach. Want it spicier? Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper. You can customize it to suit your palate, making it an excellent choice for families with varying tastes.

Also, let’s talk about meal prep. This soup stores beautifully and can be reheated without sacrificing flavor or texture. You can whip up a big batch on a Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. Perfect for those busy days when cooking feels like a chore.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Healthy Cabbage Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this soup to life:

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing and adding healthy fats.
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced: This brings sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed: A must for any savory dish.
1 large carrot, peeled and diced: Adds a natural sweetness.
2 celery ribs, diced: For additional crunch and flavor.
½ small green cabbage, roughly chopped: The star vegetable of the dish.
1 (14-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and richness.
4 to 6 cups low-sodium vegetable stock: Adjusts the soup’s consistency.
½ teaspoon dried Italian oregano: For an herbal note.
½ teaspoon dried sweet basil: Complements the other flavors beautifully.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the flavors.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a subtle warmth to the dish.
1 to 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the overall flavor.
¼ cup roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley: A fresh finish.
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: For seasoning.

Directions

Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables

Start by washing and preparing your vegetables. Dice the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Don’t rush this part! The more uniform your vegetable sizes, the more even your soup will cook.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Next, toss in the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells heavenly.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Now, add the diced carrot and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften. This step builds the soup’s foundation, so give it a little love.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cabbage

Stir in the chopped cabbage, allowing it to wilt slightly. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The color will turn vibrant, and the smell will remain inviting.

Step 5: Add the Tomatoes and Stock

Next, pour in the canned fire-roasted tomatoes along with their juices and add 4 cups of vegetable stock. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more stock as needed. Stir to combine everything.

Step 6: Season with Herbs and Spices

Sprinkle the oregano, basil, salt, smoked paprika, and a good amount of freshly cracked black pepper into the mix. Stir and bring the soup to a gentle boil.

Step 7: Simmer to Perfection

Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the vegetables to meld together, creating a beautiful harmony.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches

Before serving, stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley. This gives the soup a fresh pop! Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes: Tips for Perfecting Your Soup

Here are some tips to make sure your cabbage soup turns out amazing every time:

Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of the vegetables impacts the soup’s flavor. Don’t settle for wilted veggies.
Adjust the Spice Level: Experiment with different herbs or spices for your taste preference. Red pepper flakes can take it up a notch.
Try Different Broths: If you love depth, consider using chicken broth instead of vegetable stock.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, throw in some cooked chicken, beans, or lentils.
Garnish Creatively: Consider adding a swirl of yogurt or a sprinkle of cheese on top for added richness.

Storage Tips

Healthy cabbage soup stores quite well. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Just reheat gently before serving.
Freeze: This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. It lasts for about 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen soup, transfer it to the fridge to defrost overnight. Reheat it gently on the stovetop for best results.

Nutrition Information

Let’s talk numbers. A serving of healthy cabbage soup typically contains:

Calories: Approximately 100
Protein: 3 grams
Carbohydrates: 19 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
Fat: 3 grams

These numbers can vary based on additional ingredients or alterations made to the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

How you enjoy your healthy cabbage soup can turn it from simple to spectacular. Here are some tasty ideas:

Top It Off: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
Crunch Factor: Serve with crispy breadsticks for a satisfying crunch and moisture balance.
Herb Infusion: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to uplift the flavors right before serving.
Serving it Cold: Enjoy chilled on hot days for a refreshing twist.
Pair with a Salad: Serve alongside a bright mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Healthy Cabbage Soup?

Sometimes, life throws us curveballs. Here are some solid substitutes for your healthy cabbage soup:

Kale: Try kale in place of cabbage for even more nutrients and a slightly different texture.
Spinach: A perfect alternative for a softer green—add it in the last few minutes of cooking.
Quinoa: Swap in cooked quinoa for a protein boost instead of beans or meat.
Zucchini: Chop up zucchini and toss it in for a unique flavor twist.
Broth Variants: Feel free to use chicken or beef broth for those who enjoy a meatier flavor profile.

Healthy Cabbage Soup

Content Editor

Let me take you on a comforting journey into the world of healthy cabbage soup. I can still remember the first time I tasted this delightful dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing and adding healthy fats.
1 medium yellow onion finely diced: This brings sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 garlic cloves minced or pressed: A must for any savory dish.
1 large carrot peeled and diced: Adds a natural sweetness.
2 celery ribs diced: For additional crunch and flavor.
½ small green cabbage roughly chopped: The star vegetable of the dish.
1 14-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and richness.
4 to 6 cups low-sodium vegetable stock: Adjusts the soup’s consistency.
½ teaspoon dried Italian oregano: For an herbal note.
½ teaspoon dried sweet basil: Complements the other flavors beautifully.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the flavors.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a subtle warmth to the dish.
1 to 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the overall flavor.
¼ cup roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley: A fresh finish.
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste: For seasoning.