How to Make Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe

When the weather gets chilly or life feels a little too hectic, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of healthy cabbage soup to bring comfort and nourishment to your day. This recipe is packed with fresh veggies, loads of flavor, and a whole lot of love—all without meat, making it perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a lighter, healthier meal.

Let me show you how to make this healthy cabbage soup recipe in a way that’s easy, efficient, and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious & Filling: Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while the other vegetables add fiber, antioxidants, and vibrant flavors.

• Low-Calorie & Budget-Friendly: This soup is kind to your waistline and your wallet—an ideal combo!

• Quick & Easy: With a few tips (keep reading!), you can get this soup on the table in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:

• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped

• 1 large onion, diced

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 large zucchini, diced (optional but adds a nice texture)

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 6 cups vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients First

Before you even turn on the stove, get everything prepped. Chop the veggies, mince the garlic, and have your spices and broth ready to go. Trust me, this one step will make the whole process smoother. (Pro tip: Use a food processor to quickly chop onions, carrots, and celery if you’re short on time.)

Step 2: Start with a Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add the Rest of the Veggies

Stir in the cabbage, zucchini, and canned tomatoes. Give everything a good mix so the flavors start to mingle.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Add the vegetable broth and toss in the bay leaf. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme, and cook for another minute. This step creates a flavorful foundation for your soup. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the veggies cook evenly.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste your soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Remove the bay leaf, ladle the soup into bowls, and top with fresh parsley for an extra pop of flavor.

Tips for Efficient Soup Preparation

1. Chop Ahead:

If you know your week will be busy, prep your veggies in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

2. Use Pre-Chopped Veggies:

Many grocery stores sell pre-chopped cabbage or a coleslaw mix that can save you tons of time.

3. Double the Batch:

This soup freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later. Just reheat and enjoy!

4. Add Protein If Needed:

If you want to make the soup heartier, toss in a can of chickpeas or white beans toward the end of cooking.

Why This Soup is a Winner for Families

This healthy cabbage soup recipe is one of those dishes that everyone in the family can enjoy. It’s mild enough for picky eaters, and you can customize it easily with their favorite veggies or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in extra nutrients without anyone noticing!

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a healthy cabbage soup recipe that’s as nourishing as it is simple. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this soup is sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection.

Go ahead! Grab that head of cabbage and get cooking! Your family (and your body) will thank you.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear about your tweaks and toppings. Happy cooking!