This Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is a fresh and tasty dish that’s perfect for a light meal. Packed with lots of colorful veggies, it’s low in calories but high in flavor!
Making this soup is a breeze! Just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll feel great enjoying a warm bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here. It’s low in calories and full of fiber. If you’re not a fan, you can try savoy cabbage for a different texture or even kale for a twist.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are great for convenience. You can substitute them with fresh tomatoes if you have them, just chop them up. Alternatively, you could use tomato sauce for a smoother consistency.
Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps this dish light. If you’re veggie, stick with vegetable broth; otherwise, chicken broth works well too. You can also make your own broth for more flavor!
Herbs: Dried basil and oregano add nice flavor. If you have fresh herbs, they can make the soup even more vibrant. Just use about three times as much fresh as dried.
How Do I Ensure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking vegetables just right can elevate your soup! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a mix of onions, carrots, and celery, which add a flavorful base. Cook them until soft but not browned to maintain their sweetness.
- Add garlic shortly after. It cooks faster and can burn easily, leading to a bitter taste.
- When you add the cabbage and other veggies, ensure they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Simmer the soup gently. Too much heat can make the vegetables mushy, so keep it low and covered for a tender bite.
How to Make Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3-4 medium carrots, sliced
- 2-3 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasoning:
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste (optional)
Cooking Essentials:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to whip up this delicious and healthy cabbage soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened slightly but not browned. This step builds the flavorful base of your soup.
2. Add Garlic:
Once the veggies have softened, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Add Broth and Bring to a Boil:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This will help your soup come together quickly and allow all the flavors to meld.
4. Add Cabbage and Other Vegetables:
Once boiling, add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with juice), green beans, dried basil, dried oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together to combine well.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 25-30 minutes until the cabbage and other vegetables are tender. This will also give the soup time to develop its full flavor.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Once the soup is ready, taste it to see if it needs any additional seasoning. You can add a bit more salt or pepper to suit your taste!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh or dried parsley if desired. This little touch adds a nice color and flavor.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious cabbage soup hot! It pairs wonderfully with a slice of whole-grain bread or a small side salad for a complete, low-point Weight Watchers meal.
This soup is not only light and filling; it’s a great way to support your healthy eating goals while enjoying a hearty and flavorful dish!
Can I Use Other Types of Cabbage?
Yes, you can! While green cabbage works best for this recipe, savoy cabbage adds a nice texture, and napa cabbage can bring a milder flavor. Just chop it to a similar size for even cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re all set for a delicious vegetarian or vegan meal.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over low heat or microwave it in short bursts, stirring often until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
