This Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for a light meal. Packed with fresh veggies like cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes, it’s both colorful and tasty!
Making this soup is as easy as chopping veggies and letting them simmer in broth. I love having a big bowl when I’m feeling cozy; it’s like getting a hug from the inside! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is key for this soup. It cooks down beautifully and adds a lot of volume, which makes it filling. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with savoy or even napa cabbage, which will give a slightly sweeter flavor.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness and color. You can swap them for parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different taste. I prefer using regular carrots, but rainbow carrots are fun for a burst of color!
Potatoes: They add heartiness to the soup. If you’re looking to cut carbs, use cauliflower or turnips instead. I’ve tried both, and they work well while keeping the soup light!
Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth is important to control salt levels. You can use homemade broth, chicken broth for more flavor, or even water in a pinch, but broth definitely enhances the taste.
Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add acidity and brightness. If you want a fresher taste, you could use fresh chopped tomatoes, but make sure they’re ripe for the best flavor.
How Do I Get the Vegetables to Cook Perfectly in Soup?
To ensure your veggies are tender and flavorful, follow these techniques:
- Sauté First: Start with onions and garlic for flavor. Sautéing releases their natural sugars and adds depth.
- Even Cuts: Chop the vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. This way, everything becomes tender at the same time.
- Simmer Properly: Once you add the broth, bring it to a boil before reducing the heat. A gentle simmer lets the flavors meld without making everything mushy.
- Taste as You Go: After simmering, taste the soup before serving. Adjust salt or add a splash of vinegar if it needs a little kick.
Following these tips will help you create a delicious soup that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6-7 cups)
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
- Optional: 2 tbsp plain nonfat Greek yogurt for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 30-40 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour for a healthy and hearty meal ready for your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and slightly golden. This step builds the foundational flavor of your soup!
2. Add Garlic and Veggies:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute more until it’s nice and fragrant. Then, toss in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until those veggies start to soften.
3. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to add all the goodness! Add in the chopped cabbage, diced potatoes, the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), dried thyme, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Mix it all together well!
4. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
5. Season and Serve:
After the simmering time, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir before ladling into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh dill or parsley, and if you’d like, add a dollop of nonfat Greek yogurt on top for an extra creamy finish!
Enjoy your warm, delicious Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup, perfect for meal prep or a comforting dinner any time of the year!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver. Just add them directly to the pot during the cooking process. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly until they are heated through and tender.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure you use low-sodium vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could also add more protein by incorporating beans like cannellini or chickpeas for added texture and nutrition.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze Cabbage Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. For the best texture, consider adding fresh vegetables just before serving after thawing and reheating.