This Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is light, tasty, and super easy to make! Packed with veggies like cabbage, tomatoes, and peppers, it’s perfect for a healthy meal.
I love having a big bowl of this soup on a chilly day. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s so low in calories, I never feel guilty going for seconds. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here, but you can also try Savoy or Napa if you want something a bit sweeter or softer. Just chop them the same way!
Vegetable Broth: Using low-sodium broth keeps it healthier. If you’re not vegetarian, chicken broth works well too! Water with a dash of soy sauce is a good substitute too.
Herbs: Dried herbs like basil and oregano are great here. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use them! They give an extra burst of flavor. Just double the amount since fresh is milder.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté the Vegetables?
Sautéing is key to building flavor in this soup. It’s simple: just follow these steps for perfect results!
- Heat your pan on medium and add a splash of water or a teaspoon of olive oil.
- Add the onion, celery, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir them around for about 5 minutes until they’re soft but not browned.
- If you notice sticking, just add a bit more water to help steam them a little.
That’s it! Don’t rush this step, as it sets the flavor for the whole soup!
Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cabbage soup is quick and easy! You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes on prep (chopping and measuring) and about 30 minutes cooking time. So, in under an hour, you’re all set to enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start Cooking the Aromatics:
Grab a large pot or a Dutch oven. Add a splash of water or a teaspoon of olive oil. Heat it up over medium heat, and toss in the chopped onion, celery, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes until they’re nice and soft. This helps to release all the lovely flavors!
2. Add the Carrots:
Now, add the peeled and diced carrots to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes. You want the carrots to start softening a bit.
3. Incorporate the Cabbage:
Time to stir in your chopped cabbage. Cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to wilt down. This is where your kitchen will fill with an aroma that makes everyone curious about what’s cooking!
4. Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes:
Next, pour in 6 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!). This will create a nice base for your soup.
5. Season the Soup:
Add the dried parsley, basil, oregano, and sprinkle in salt and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to make sure those flavors mix well!
6. Let It Simmer:
Increase the heat to bring the soup to a bubbling boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until all the veggies are tender. It’s the perfect time to relax and let the magic happen!
7. Taste and Adjust:
After 30 minutes, give your soup a taste. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or any other herbs according to your liking!
8. Serve Up and Enjoy:
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve it hot and enjoy your flavorful, healthy cabbage soup!
This light, vegetable-packed cabbage soup is perfect for a healthy Weight Watchers meal, low in calories but rich in comforting flavor. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen veggies can work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding them to the pot to avoid a watery soup.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering. You can also include diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
What’s a Good Way to Serve This Soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with whole grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also makes a great base for adding protein like cooked chicken or beans if desired!
