Cabbage soup is the ultimate trifecta of comfort, health, and low-calorie goodness. Don’t let its simplicity deceive you—this bowl of warmth is packed with flavor thanks to tender cabbage, mirepoix vegetables, tomatoes, vegetable broth, and herbs. It’s easy to customize and always hits the spot!
Why This is My Go-To Cabbage Soup Recipe
When chilly weather sets in, this cabbage soup is always at the top of my meal plan. Here’s why I keep coming back to it:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with one pot to clean! Perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients like veggies and pantry staples create a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Adaptable: Keep it light or bulk it up with protein, extra veggies, or grains—this soup fits any mood or dietary need.
Ingredients
- Cabbage: Green cabbage is tender and sweet when cooked, but napa cabbage works too.
- Mirepoix: Chopped onion, celery, and carrots provide a classic soup base.
- Diced Tomatoes: Regular or fire-roasted for a smoky twist.
- Garlic & Herbs: Garlic cloves, dried oregano, basil, and fresh parsley add depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Broth: Adjust the amount to suit your preference—brothy or chunky.
Health Benefits of Cabbage
Cabbage is more than just a humble veggie; it’s a nutritional powerhouse:
- Rich in Nutrients: Packed with Vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and magnesium.
- Loaded with Antioxidants: Helps protect your cells and supports overall health.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces irritation and promotes healing.
- Great for Digestion: High fiber content aids in digestion and helps control blood sugar.
- Weight-Loss Friendly: Low-calorie but filling—perfect for lighter meals.
How to Make Cabbage Soup
- Sauté the Base: In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft. Add garlic and spices, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the Cabbage: Stir in the cabbage and cook until it softens, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Finishing Touches: Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, fresh parsley, and cracked black pepper.
Easy Variations
- Add Protein: Mix in shredded chicken, ground beef, or plant-based options like lentils or chickpeas.
- Extra Veggies: Try bell peppers, zucchini, kale, or spinach.
- Hearty Options: Add potatoes, rice, or thicken the broth with tomato paste.
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw overnight or heat directly from frozen on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Cozy Cabbage Soup Recipe
4
servings15
minutes15
minutesThis cabbage soup is a wholesome blend of tender cabbage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs—perfect for a quick, healthy, and low-carb meal. Watch the video below to see how effortlessly this delicious soup comes together in my kitchen!
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 large carrot, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon salt
½ cabbage, chopped
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
4 to 6 cups vegetable broth (depending on your desired consistency)
1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice
¼ cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
Cracked black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, and salt. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sweat the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir frequently for 5 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Simmer: Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the soup from heat, then stir in lemon juice, fresh parsley, and cracked black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Lisa’s Tips
- Storing for the Week: Allow the soup to cool, then store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 4–5 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing for Later: Portion out servings into Souper Cubes or freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Personalize It: This recipe is a great base—get creative with variations! Check out the customization ideas above for extra flavor, protein, or veggies.
- Enjoy this simple yet flavorful soup as a light meal, meal prep option, or cozy dinner for chilly days!