This Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is a light and tasty dish packed with fresh vegetables like cabbage, tomatoes, and carrots. It’s perfect for anyone watching their weight!
I love whipping up a big pot of it! It’s so easy to make, and leftovers are a lifesaver for lunches. Plus, who can resist such a colorful bowl of goodness? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness to the soup. You can substitute with any other healthy oil like avocado or canola oil if needed.
Onion: A large onion brings sweetness and depth of flavor. If you’re sensitive to onions, try using shallots or leek instead.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is versatile and the star of this dish. You can swap it with savoy or Napa cabbage, which are slightly sweeter.
Carrots: They add a natural sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can replace them with zucchini or bell peppers.
Vegetable Broth: Either vegetable or chicken broth works well. For a low-sodium option, look for broth labeled as such or make your own at home!
How Do I Make Sure My Vegetables Are Tender but Not Mushy?
To achieve perfectly cooked vegetables, timing is key. Start with the longer-cooking ingredients first. Here’s how to do it:
- Sauté onions and garlic until translucent to build flavor.
- Next, add carrots and celery and cook for a few minutes to soften them.
- Finally, stir in cabbage which takes the longest to cook. This way, everything cooks evenly.
Simmering on low heat for 30 minutes lets the flavors mingle while keeping the veggies tender. Remember to taste along the way; you can always adjust seasoning as needed!
Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 head green cabbage, chopped (about 8-10 cups)
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional or to taste)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and an additional 30 minutes to cook, totaling about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal during a busy week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat Up the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will help create a rich base for your soup.
2. Sauté the Onions:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they become translucent. This releases their natural sweetness.
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until its aroma fills the kitchen. Garlic adds a lovely flavor to your soup!
4. Mix in the Veggies:
Now, add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and green beans if you’re using them. Cook them all together for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, to start softening them up.
5. Cabbage Time:
Add the chopped cabbage to the pot. This is the star of your soup! Stir everything well to mix the flavors.
6. Pour in the Rest:
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the broth. This will create the liquid base of the soup.
7. Season Your Soup:
Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, black pepper, and salt (if using). This will enhance the flavor of the soup wonderfully!
8. Bring to a Boil:
Turn up the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender.
9. Taste Testing:
After simmering, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You want it to be just right!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or dill. Serve it warm and enjoy this comforting, healthy dish!
This Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is low in calories and points, making it a great choice for weight management. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach work great. Just keep in mind the cooking times; add heartier vegetables earlier and more delicate ones later!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool down before refrigerating to preserve its flavor and texture!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this cabbage soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove.
What If I Want a Spice Kick?
If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the garlic. This can add a nice kick without overwhelming the dish!
