Light, nourishing, and packed with vegetables, Cabbage Veggie Soup is the kind of recipe that makes you feel good with every spoonful. It’s warm and comforting like a classic soup, yet fresh and wholesome enough for clean eating, detox days, or simple weeknight meals. Made with humble ingredients like cabbage, carrots, celery, and tomatoes, this soup proves that healthy food can still be deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly dinner, a meal-prep staple, or a reset meal after indulgent days, this cabbage vegetable soup fits perfectly into any routine.
Why Cabbage Veggie Soup Is So Popular
Simple, Nourishing, and Filling
Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, making this soup filling without being heavy. Combined with vegetables and broth, it’s both comforting and refreshing.
Perfect for Everyday Eating
- Naturally low-calorie
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- One-pot recipe
- Great for meal prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cabbage Veggie Soup Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Sautéing |
| Onion (diced) | 1 large | Flavor base |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Aromatics |
| Green cabbage (chopped) | ½ large head | Main vegetable |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 cups | Natural sweetness |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks | Depth |
| Bell pepper (chopped) | 1 | Fresh flavor |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14 oz) | Acidity & balance |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | Richness |
| Vegetable broth | 6 cups | Soup base |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Herbal flavor |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | Warmth |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Fresh parsley | Optional | Garnish |
How to Make Cabbage Veggie Soup
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. This step builds the flavor foundation of the soup.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
👉 Flavor Tip: If the onion starts to brown, lower the heat slightly.
2. Add the Vegetables
Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the oil and aromatics.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften slightly and the cabbage starts to wilt. This step helps release natural sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
👉 Texture Tip: Evenly cut vegetables ensure consistent cooking and better texture.
3. Build the Soup
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This deepens the tomato flavor.
Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits.
👉 Why this works: Tomato paste adds richness while broth brings everything together.
4. Simmer
Increase heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
During this time, the vegetables will become tender and the flavors will fully meld into a comforting, well-balanced soup.
👉 Consistency Tip: If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.
5. Finish and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Serve hot in bowls, with crusty bread or crackers on the side if desired.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Veggie Soup
Pro Tips
- Chop vegetables evenly for uniform cooking
- Let the soup simmer gently for best flavor
- Add salt gradually and taste as you go
- Soup tastes even better the next day
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking cabbage until mushy
- Skipping seasoning
- Boiling aggressively
Variations & Substitutions
Easy Customizations
- Add potatoes for extra heartiness
- Include beans for protein
- Add zucchini or green beans
- Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth
Flavor Boosters
- A splash of lemon juice
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Parmesan rind while simmering
What to Serve With Cabbage Veggie Soup
- Crusty bread or whole-grain toast
- Simple side salad
- Crackers or flatbread
- Grilled cheese (for non-detox days )
Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cabbage Veggie Soup good for weight loss?
Yes. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and very filling.
Can I make Cabbage Veggie Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes. Shredded chicken or ground turkey works well.
Does cabbage get too soft?
Not if simmered gently. Avoid overcooking to keep texture pleasant.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a wholesome, comforting meal that’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable, Cabbage Veggie Soup is a perfect choice. Simple ingredients, nourishing flavors, and one-pot convenience make this soup a go-to recipe for healthy living and cozy meals alike