This Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is a healthy and tasty option, packed with fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes. It’s low in calories and full of flavor!
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. I love making a big pot and enjoying it throughout the week—it’s comforting and guilt-free. Perfect for chilly days! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: This is the star of the soup! I like using green cabbage for its mild flavor. If you want a bit more crunch, you can use Napa cabbage or even savoy cabbage as a substitute.
Carrots: Carrots add a nice sweetness to the soup. If you don’t have carrots on hand, sweet potatoes or bell peppers can work well, too. They provide a bit of extra sweetness and nutrition!
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are super convenient. If you prefer fresh, you can use about 2 cups of chopped tomatoes. Just remember to add a little extra liquid to balance things out.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it plant-based, but if you’re okay with chicken broth, that can add more flavor. Low-sodium options are great if you’re watching your salt intake.
Herbs and Spices: Thyme and oregano bring aromatic depth. Fresh herbs can always be substituted if you have them—just increase the amount since fresh is less potent than dried!
What’s the Best Way to Cook This Soup?
Making this soup is easy, but these steps will help you get it just right!
- Start by heating oil in a pot over medium heat, as this helps bring out the flavors of the onions and garlic.
- Sauté the onion and celery first before adding the garlic. This prevents burning the garlic, which can taste bitter.
- Once the vegetables are softened, add the carrots and cabbage. Stirring helps them cook evenly.
- When adding the broth and tomatoes, stir well to mix all the ingredients. Bring it to a boil before lowering the heat to simmer.
- Letting the soup simmer allows the flavors to meld together. Keep it covered to help it cook faster and retain moisture!
Overall, this is a quick and healthy recipe you can customize based on what you have. Enjoy making it your own!
Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or low-sodium chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
Time Needed
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and 40 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and healthy meal to whip up!
Instructions
1. Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If you prefer, you can use cooking spray to keep things light.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3. Add Carrots and Cabbage
Stir in the sliced carrots and chopped cabbage. Cook them for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently. This step makes the veggies tender and adds great flavor.
4. Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, dried thyme, oregano, paprika, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
5. Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. This helps the flavors combine beautifully!
6. Simmer the Soup
Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Give it a stir occasionally, just to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
7. Taste and Adjust
Once done, taste the soup and add salt and pepper as necessary, depending on your preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup warm and enjoy your healthy and flavorful Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup! It’s filling and can be kept in the fridge for days or even frozen for later use.
This soup is a fantastic low-calorie option that keeps you satisfied and nourished. Perfect for any time of the year!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead?
Yes! You can absolutely use frozen cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables in this recipe. Just add them to the pot without thawing first, and adjust the cooking time slightly until they’re tender.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cumin or red pepper flakes for a kick. You can also add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors.
Is This Soup Suitable for Meal Prep?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and divide it into portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
