Introduction: This Vegan Easy Cabbage Soup is a nutritious, comforting, and deliciously light soup that’s perfect for chilly days or as a refreshing, low-calorie meal option. Packed with fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, celery, and tomatoes, this soup is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only one pot and simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. This soup is naturally low in calories and perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium green cabbage, roughly chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large zucchini, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 6 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat the Olive Oil:
    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook Onion and Garlic:
    • Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Remaining Vegetables and Spices

  1. Add Chopped Vegetables:
    • Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, bell pepper, and chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir to combine the vegetables.
  2. Add Spices:
    • Sprinkle in the dried thyme, basil, oregano, and smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

  1. Pour in Diced Tomatoes and Vegetable Broth:
    • Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir everything together.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

  1. Bring to a Boil:
    • Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.
  2. Reduce Heat and Simmer:
    • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage and other vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasonings

  1. Taste the Soup:
    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices if desired.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Parsley:
    • Stir in fresh parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness and color.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve Hot:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad if desired.
  2. Optional Toppings:
    • Top with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a slightly cheesy flavor.

Tips and Variations:

  1. Add Protein: For extra protein, add a can of white beans or chickpeas.
  2. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
  3. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 6 Servings):

  • Calories: 70
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 1.5g

WW SmartPoints (Per Serving):

Each serving has approximately 1 SmartPoint on the Weight Watchers program, depending on specific ingredients used.

This Vegan Easy Cabbage Soup is a simple, warming dish that’s ideal for busy days and healthy eating. Enjoy this wholesome, comforting soup on its own or with a side of your choice for a hearty, nutritious meal.