Comforting Light Vegetable Cabbage Soup

This comforting, light, and budget-friendly cabbage soup is packed with fresh vegetables, making it the perfect choice for a gentle body reset or healthy meal prep. It is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that brings together the natural sweetness of carrots and cabbage with aromatic herbs.

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With a total preparation and cooking time of 50 minutes, this soup is an easy addition to your weekly routine. The combination of savory vegetable broth and a touch of lemon juice creates a bright, clean flavor profile that is both nourishing and delicious.

Ingredients

• Vegetables
• 1 small green cabbage (about 700 g), cored and chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 400 g (1 can) diced tomatoes
• 1 small zucchini, diced (optional)
• Broth & Seasonings
• 1.5 liters vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 2

Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the bell pepper, zucchini (if using), and cabbage. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add thyme, oregano, black pepper, salt, and chili flakes if using.

Step 5

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until all vegetables are tender.

Step 6

Adjust seasoning to taste. Stir in lemon juice if desired.

Step 7

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Always double-check your vegetable broth ingredients for hidden allergens to ensure the dish remains gluten-free and vegan. Using a low-sodium broth allows you to better control the final salt content of the soup.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra nutrients, add chopped spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking. To make the soup more filling, you can stir in drained white beans or chickpeas for added protein.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this hearty soup hot with a fresh garnish of chopped parsley. For a more complete and filling meal, enjoy it alongside a slice of toasted whole-grain bread.

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This easy cabbage soup is a versatile and healthy staple for any kitchen. Whether you are looking for a light dinner or a prepared lunch for the week, this recipe provides a delicious way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables in one pot.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I freeze this for later?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then portion into airtight containers. It keeps well frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

→ What other vegetables work well?

Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, or green beans can be added in the last 5 minutes of cooking. You can also include diced potatoes for extra heartiness or substitute butternut squash for the zucchini.

→ How can I add more protein?

Stir in drained white beans, chickpeas, or lentils during the last 15 minutes of simmering. For a non-vegan option, shredded chicken or ground turkey works beautifully too.

→ Is it spicy?

The chili flakes are optional and just add subtle warmth. Without them, it's mild and family-friendly. Adjust the amount to your preferred heat level or leave them out entirely.

→ Can I use a different cabbage?

Savoy, Napa, or red cabbage all work well. Red cabbage will turn the broth slightly purple but tastes just as delicious. Keep in mind that some varieties cook faster than green cabbage.