Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe

Cabbage Soup Diet is one of my go-to recipes when I want something light, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying without the guilt. This vegetable-packed soup has been a staple in my kitchen for years, especially during those weeks when I focus on healthier eating habits. The best part? It’s naturally low in calories but high in flavor, making it perfect for anyone following Weight Watchers or simply looking for a wholesome meal.

I’ll never forget the first time I made this soup on a chilly Sunday afternoon. The kitchen filled with the amazing aroma of sautéed bell peppers and fresh thyme, and I knew I had discovered something special. This cabbage soup diet recipe is more than just a weight loss tool. It’s a comforting bowl of goodness that keeps you full for hours thanks to all those fiber-rich vegetables. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick healthy dinner, this easy cabbage soup comes together in under 30 minutes and tastes even better the next day.

What You’ll Need to Make This Nourishing Soup

I always start with the freshest vegetables I can find because they truly make a difference in the final flavor. Pro tip: don’t skip the variety of bell peppers. The mix of red, yellow, and orange adds beautiful color and a subtle sweetness that balances the earthiness of the cabbage perfectly.

• 3 cups beef broth or vegetable stock (I prefer low-sodium versions so I can control the salt – use vegetable stock for Zero PersonalPoints on Weight Watchers)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (dried works too, but fresh gives better flavor)
• 3 teaspoons garlic minced (about 3-4 cloves)
• Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon of each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for higher heat tolerance)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (adds depth and richness)
• 2 small yellow onions diced (sweet onions work wonderfully)
• 1 medium head cabbage chopped (green cabbage is classic, but savoy works great – choose firm, heavy heads with tightly packed leaves)
• 1 cup tomatoes diced (fresh or canned fire-roasted)
• 3 stalks celery sliced (include the leaves for extra flavor)
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper diced
• 1 orange bell pepper diced

How I Make This Flavorful Cabbage Soup

I prefer using a large Dutch oven (5-6 quart size) for this recipe because it distributes heat evenly and gives you plenty of room to stir without vegetables spilling over the sides. Note: prep time assumes vegetables are already washed and ready to chop.

Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your large Dutch oven over medium heat. Let it warm for about 30 seconds until it shimmers slightly.

Step 2: Add the diced onions, all three colors of bell peppers, and tomatoes to the pot. Cook on medium-high heat for 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions turn translucent and the peppers start to soften with some light browning on the edges. This step builds the flavor foundation for your cabbage soup diet recipe.

Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and tomato paste. Mix everything together thoroughly so the tomato paste coats the vegetables. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Watch for the garlic to become fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

Step 4: Pour in 3 cups of beef broth (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian version). Use your wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add all the chopped cabbage to the pot. Don’t worry if it seems like too much. Cabbage wilts down significantly as it cooks. Increase the heat until the soup comes to a rolling boil.

Step 6: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. The cabbage should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Test by piercing with a fork – it should slide in easily but the cabbage shouldn’t be mushy. If you prefer softer vegetables, let it simmer for an extra 5 minutes.

Step 7: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot in bowls and enjoy your healthy, satisfying cabbage soup.

Pro tip: The soup thickens slightly as it sits, so if you’re meal prepping, you might want to add an extra 1/2 cup of broth when reheating.

Perfect Pairings for Your Healthy Soup

This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its light, vegetable-forward flavor without adding too many calories.

Crusty whole grain bread: A slice of toasted whole wheat or sourdough adds satisfying crunch and helps soak up the flavorful broth without overwhelming the cabbage soup diet focus.

Fresh herb garnish: Chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil sprinkled on top brings brightness and a pop of color that makes each bowl feel restaurant-quality.

Saltine crackers: Classic crackers provide a nostalgic comfort food element and add just enough substance to make the meal more filling.

Simple side salad: A light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and extra fiber, making this combination perfect for anyone following a healthy eating plan.

Dollop of Greek yogurt: For a creamy contrast, add a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt to your bowl. It adds protein and creates a richer texture while keeping the soup diet-friendly.

These best sides for cabbage soup enhance your meal without derailing your health goals.

Expand Your Healthy Cabbage Soup Collection

This diet-friendly cabbage soup is perfect for anyone focused on healthy eating and portion control. When you want to add more variety to your meal prep rotation, the Delicious Cabbage Soup offers a simple vegetarian option with classic flavors that complement this recipe beautifully. For the ultimate convenience during busy weeks, the Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup lets you prep everything in the morning and come home to a ready-made meal.

If you’re looking to add more protein while keeping things nutritious, try the Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup with lean beef that keeps you satisfied longer. For creamy comfort without derailing wellness goals, the dairy-free One Pot Creamy Cabbage Soup uses coconut milk to create a luscious texture that feels indulgent while remaining nutritious.

Keeping Your Soup Fresh and Delicious

One of the best things about this cabbage soup diet recipe is how well it stores. I recommend letting the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for 7-10 days, where the flavors will actually continue to blend and improve. The soup tastes even better on day two or three.

For reheating, I prefer using the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This gentle method prevents the vegetables from becoming mushy. You can also microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each heating. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Pro tip: This cabbage soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving an inch of space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes it incredibly convenient for busy weeknights when you want something healthy ready to go.

Common Questions About This Diet-Friendly Soup

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