🥣 High-Protein Cabbage Soup (WW-Friendly, Low-Carb, Low-Cal)

This warm, savory soup is packed with tender cabbage, lean protein, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s high in protein, naturally low in carbs, and 0–2 WW points depending on your ingredients.
Perfect for meal prep, detox days, or when you want a cozy, nutrient-rich bowl that keeps you full for hours.

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🧂 Ingredients

Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking spray for 0-point version)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 5–6 cups)

Protein Options (Choose One):

• 1 lb lean ground turkey or chicken (99% fat-free)
  Pan-sear before adding to soup
  OR
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
  OR
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans or lentils, drained and rinsed (for a vegetarian version)

Liquid & Seasonings:

• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil blend)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 1–2 tablespoons tomato paste (for richness)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 zucchini, sliced (adds texture & nutrients)
• ½ cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (adds carbs & extra protein)
• A handful of spinach or kale added at the end for color and nutrients

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Sauté Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil (or spray) in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
3. Add bell pepper and continue cooking for another 2 minutes.

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Step 2: Add Protein

• If using ground turkey/chicken:
  Add it to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
• If using cooked chicken or beans:
  You’ll add these later (Step 4) after simmering the veggies and broth.

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Step 3: Build the Soup Base

1. Stir in chopped cabbage and tomato paste. Cook for 2–3 minutes until cabbage starts to wilt.
2. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
3. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will soften, and the flavors will meld beautifully.

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Step 4: Add Protein & Simmer

1. Stir in cooked chicken or beans (if not already added).
2. Simmer for another 10 minutes to heat through and thicken slightly.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

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Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with:
   • Fresh parsley or cilantro
   • A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (optional, adds flavor & protein)
   • A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Serve hot with a side of whole-grain bread or crackers — or enjoy it just as it is!

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Meal prep favorite: Portion into containers for 4–5 days — perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
• Freezer-friendly: Cool completely and freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Make it creamy: Stir in 2 tablespoons fat-free Greek yogurt or a splash of unsweetened almond milk right before serving for a velvety finish (still WW-friendly).

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⚡ Nutrition (Per 1½ cup serving, using ground turkey)

(Approximate values, may vary based on ingredients)

• Calories: 180–210
• Protein: 24–28g
• Carbs: 10–12g
• Fat: 4–6g
• Fiber: 4–5g
• WW Points: 0–2 points (depending on oil and protein choice)

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💡 Tips for Success

• Cut veggies evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Add broth gradually — if you like a thicker stew-like soup, reduce broth by 1 cup.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili paste.
• Flavor enhancer: Add 1 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for umami depth.
• Boost protein: Stir in ½ cup cottage cheese or a scoop of unflavored collagen powder before serving.

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🥬 Why You’ll Love This Soup

✅ High in lean protein
✅ Low-carb & low-calorie
✅ WW- and keto-friendly
✅ Freezer & meal-prep friendly
✅ Comforting, nourishing, and filling

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🥄 In Summary

This High-Protein Cabbage Soup is your perfect light-yet-satisfying meal — hearty enough to stand on its own, but gentle enough for any healthy eating plan. Packed with veggies, lean protein, and cozy flavor, it’s a guilt-free way to warm up any day of the week.