There’s just something so satisfying about a big, steaming bowl of the Cabbage Soup Diet — it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket when you crave both comfort and a fresh start. Vibrant, hearty vegetables create every bite of this light yet flavorful classic, and its simple ingredients make it accessible whether you’re embarking on a short-term reset or just looking for an easy way to sneak some extra veggies into your routine. With zippy herbs, lots of texture, and just the right amount of zest, this soup proves that healthy never has to mean boring!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe is how humble and straightforward the ingredients are. Each vegetable and herb doesn’t just add flavor and color—they bring their own personality, making the Cabbage Soup Diet a vibrant bowl of goodness you’ll crave all week long.
- Cabbage: This is the heart of the soup, adding bulk, a gentle sweetness, and that signature texture that makes every spoonful filling and satisfying.
- Green onions: They lend a gentle bite and a lovely pop of color, brightening every bowl with a mild onion flavor.
- Green bell peppers: For a crisp, slightly grassy sweetness and that inviting green hue.
- Carrots: A touch of natural sweetness and vibrant orange color—plus they soften beautifully while simmering.
- Celery: Adds crunch, earthiness, and a subtle aromatic backdrop to the soup.
- Canned diced tomatoes (with juice): Their tang and juiciness deepen the broth and meld all the veggies together.
- Low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth: Provides a savory backbone without overshadowing the vegetables (go with veggie broth for a vegan soup!).
- Garlic: Delivers warmth and depth—honestly, it’s hard to imagine this soup without that garlicky kick.
- Dried basil: Offers a gentle, herby lift that brightens the soup.
- Dried oregano: Rounds out the flavor profile with a touch of earthy Mediterranean goodness.
- Black pepper: For that necessary hint of heat and freshness.
- Salt: Essential for pulling out all the delicious vegetable flavors—taste and adjust as you like.
- Optional hot sauce: Just a dash takes it from cozy to invigorating, if you’re in the mood for extra spice.
How to Make Cabbage Soup Diet
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a small amount of oil in your largest stockpot over medium heat—you want enough room for all those veggies! Add the sliced onions, chopped bell peppers, carrots, and celery. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should soften just slightly and release their savory fragrance, setting the stage for the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Toss in the minced garlic and give everything a good stir. After just a minute, you’ll notice a burst of that classic garlic aroma. Don’t skip this step—garlic adds both depth and a subtle zest to the cabbage soup diet base.
Step 3: Pile in the Cabbage and Tomatoes
Now the real magic starts. Stir in the chopped cabbage and pour in your can of diced tomatoes, juice and all. The cabbage will look like a mountain at first, but trust me, it cooks down into meltingly tender ribbons and soaks up all the flavor. The tomatoes bring brightness and tie all the vegetables together.
Step 4: Broth and Seasonings
Pour in your broth, stir everything well, and add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This is where all those lovely, homey soup scents start to fill your kitchen. Crank up the heat just until the soup comes to a boil, then reduce the burner to low. Let the soup simmer gently, uncovered, for 30 to 40 minutes. Give it a stir once in a while and watch as the vegetables turn soft and the flavors meld. If you want heat, splash in some hot sauce to taste.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
Once the vegetables are meltingly tender and your kitchen smells like pure comfort, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve your cabbage soup diet piping hot, ladled into big bowls ready for finishing touches.
How to Serve Cabbage Soup Diet
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill right before serving—they lend freshness and a delightful pop of green. For a little kick, crack some extra pepper on top or add a swirl of your favorite hot sauce. If you like a touch of tang, a squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten everything up in a snap.
Side Dishes
This soup truly shines on its own, but if you want a little something extra, try pairing it with a slice of crusty whole grain bread or some homemade garlic toast. If you’re keeping things light, serve it with a small side salad of crisp greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with presentation! Serve in colorful soup mugs for extra cheer, or ladle into small bowls and set up a garnish bar so everyone can choose their favorite toppings. You can even serve cabbge soup diet as an appetizer in shot glasses for a fun, party-ready spin.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The cabbage soup diet only gets better after chilling in the fridge, as the flavors deepen overnight. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. It makes for a quick and comforting meal whenever you need it.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully! Let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers (leave a little space for expansion). Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, and you’ll have a healthy meal at your fingertips, even on your busiest days.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pour your desired portion into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot. You can also microwave individual servings for a minute or two, stirring halfway. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s thickened up, and adjust seasonings as needed after reheating.
FAQs
Is the Cabbage Soup Diet suitable for long-term weight loss?
The cabbage soup diet is best enjoyed as a short-term boost or reset rather than a long-term eating plan. While it’s low in calories and packed with nutritious veggies, variety and balanced nutrition are key for sustainable weight loss in the long run.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Try tossing in chopped zucchini, green beans, spinach, or mushrooms for even more flavor and color. Just aim for non-starchy additions to keep things light and in the spirit of the original recipe.
Is it possible to make the cabbage soup diet spicy?
Yes! Stir in your favorite hot sauce, add red pepper flakes, or even a dash of cayenne. This soup welcomes all levels of heat, so customize it to suit your taste buds.
Does this soup work for meal prep?
It sure does. The cabbage soup diet keeps well in the fridge and freezer, making it wonderful for meal prepping. Prepare a big batch and portion it out for quick, healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
You can, but green cabbage is classic for this recipe. Red cabbage will work in a pinch and bring a different color (plus a subtle sweetness), but know it may change the color of your broth slightly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a bowlful of comfort that’s as wholesome as it is delicious, give the cabbage soup diet a try. It’s a time-tested favorite for a reason—simple, satisfying, and absolutely brimming with goodness. Grab your biggest pot and let your kitchen fill with those homey, hearty aromas—you’ll be glad you did!
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Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cabbage Soup Diet recipe is a delicious and healthy option for those looking to shed some pounds or enjoy a low-calorie meal. Packed with nutritious vegetables and flavorful herbs, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredients
Vegetables:
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 6 large green onions, sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
Other Ingredients:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: hot sauce for flavor
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large stockpot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Ingredients: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the cabbage and diced tomatoes with juice. Pour in the broth and add basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
- Adjust and Serve: Adjust seasoning to taste and add hot sauce if desired. Serve hot and refrigerate leftovers for up to 5 days.
Notes
- This soup is popular for short-term weight loss plans but can also be enjoyed as a healthy, low-calorie meal any time.
- Feel free to add other non-starchy vegetables like zucchini or green beans for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
