This Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is a light and tasty dish packed with crunchy veggies. Cabbage, tomatoes, and other goodies come together in a warm, comforting bowl!
I love making a big pot because it’s super easy and perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy it all week—just don’t forget to share with friends or they might get a little jealous! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star of this soup for its crunch and health benefits. If you want variety, you can also use Savoy or Napa cabbage, which add different textures and flavors.
Vegetable broth: I like using low-sodium broth to control the salt. However, if you’re in a pinch, water can work too. Just add more seasoning to boost the flavor!
Diced tomatoes: You can substitute fresh tomatoes if you prefer, about 2 cups chopped. For a little extra zing, try using fire-roasted tomatoes instead.
Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate this soup. If you have fresh basil or oregano, they can replace dried ones. Just remember to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs!
How Do I Cook Cabbage So It’s Tender Yet Crunchy?
Cooking cabbage to the perfect texture is essential. You want it tender but still with a bit of crunch. Here’s how:
- Start by sautéing it with the other veggies; this softens it a bit.
- After adding the broth and bringing to a boil, simmer it gently—if you boil too hard, it might get mushy.
- Check the cabbage after 20 minutes. It should be tender but still have some bite.
Trust me, timing is key for that lovely texture!
Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 to 7 cups)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste (optional and limited to keep Weight Watchers friendly)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Essentials:
- Cooking spray or 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, can omit for lower points)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 to 40 minutes to cook. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a big pot of healthy, hearty cabbage soup to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, spray the bottom with cooking spray or add olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften and smell great!
2. Add Garlic and Tomato Paste:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to keep it from burning. Then, stir in the tomato paste, cooking it for one more minute to enhance the flavor.
3. Pour in the Liquids:
Now it’s time to pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Give it a good stir!
4. Add the Cabbage and Seasoning:
Add the chopped cabbage, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and salt if you want. Stir everything well to combine.
5. Cook the Soup:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until all the vegetables, especially the cabbage, are tender.
6. Final Touches:
After cooking, taste the soup and adjust any seasonings if necessary. Serve it hot and garnish with fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy this healthy and hearty cabbage soup! Perfect for a cozy meal or for meal prepping throughout the week. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Other Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor or texture, feel free to use Savoy or Napa cabbage. They’re great alternatives that will still work well in this soup.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you want an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables. You can also top the soup with a drizzle of hot sauce before serving!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes really well! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
What Should I Serve With This Soup?
This cabbage soup is delicious on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with whole-grain bread or a salad for a complete and satisfying dining experience!
