Name: Cabbage Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 carrots, peeled and sliced; 3 celery stalks, sliced; 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice; 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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If you’re on the lookout for a soul-warming, vibrant, and altogether nourishing meal, Cabbage Soup is your answer. Packed with a bounty of fresh, colorful vegetables and aromatic herbs, this soup is as hearty as it is healthy—a bowl of comfort that’s wonderfully simple to whip up. Whether you’re crafting a cozy weeknight dinner or seeking a light lunch to energize your day, Cabbage Soup delivers with a savory combination of flavors, making it a nourishing staple you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cabbage Soup comes together with a line-up of humble yet critical ingredients. Each one brings a splash of flavor, color, or body to the finished bowl, proving that the magic truly happens when simple elements join forces.

Olive oil: Gives the soup a luscious base and helps the vegetables soften and release their flavors.
Onion: Lays the foundation with its natural sweetness and aromatic punch.
Garlic: Adds an irresistibly savory, aromatic depth that makes each spoonful sing.
Carrots: Provide sweetness and a pop of cheerful orange color.
Celery: Adds crunch and an earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of carrots.
Green cabbage: The star of the show—brings subtle sweetness and a satisfying heartiness.
Zucchini: Lends delicate texture and soaks up all the wonderful broth flavors.
Diced tomatoes with juice: Imparts brightness, acidity, and a lovely soup base color.
Vegetable or chicken broth: The flavorful liquid backbone tying all the ingredients together.
Dried oregano: Offers an herby layer with a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Dried basil: Lends a gentle sweetness and depth to the broth.
Thyme: Earthy and slightly floral, it enhances all the veggie notes.
Salt and pepper: Brings out every nuance from the veggies and herbs—don’t be shy with seasoning!
Fresh parsley (optional): For a gentle herbal finish and a splash of color right before serving.

How to Make Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil in a large, sturdy pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently for about two to three minutes. You’ll know you’re ready for the next step when your kitchen fills with their delicious fragrance—this simple start lays the groundwork for flavor that’s layered and rich.

Step 2: Build the Veggie Base

Next up, toss in your carrots and celery. These veggies need just a five-minute head start to soften and begin releasing their natural sweetness. Stir occasionally, and watch as the pot fills with lively color and aroma—this is where Cabbage Soup really starts coming together.

Step 3: Add the Star Ingredients

Stir in the chopped cabbage and diced zucchini, along with the entire can of diced tomatoes and their juice. Pour in your broth—vegetable or chicken, whatever your preference. You’ll see a rainbow of vegetables swimming in golden liquid, promising pure comfort with every simmering bubble.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and thyme, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Bring your soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer uncovered. In about 25 to 30 minutes, the vegetables will be perfectly tender and the flavors deep and harmonious.

Step 5: Taste, Adjust, and Finish

Before you serve, give your Cabbage Soup a good stir and a taste. Need an extra pinch of salt, or a dash more pepper? Now’s the time to tweak. Right at the end, sprinkle in some fresh parsley if you’d like a touch of brightness and color. You’re ready for ladling!

How to Serve Cabbage Soup

Garnishes

For an Instagram-worthy finish and a burst of freshness, top each bowl with a generous scatter of chopped fresh parsley. If you crave a little richness, a dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded parmesan make wonderful companions. Even a light swirl of olive oil gives an added silkiness and glow.

Side Dishes

Cabbage Soup is a true chameleon at the table—serve it solo for a nourishing, low-calorie meal, or pair it with a thick slice of rustic bread to soak up the broth. Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty rolls, or even a simple garden salad all make irresistible partners for this bowl of veggie-packed comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be shy about getting playful! Try serving your Cabbage Soup in mini bread bowls for a cozy, edible vessel. Pour smaller portions into mugs for a savory starter at dinner parties, or top with crunchy croutons for texture and drama. However you serve it, a colorful soup like this always steals the spotlight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cabbage Soup is famously friendly to leftovers, and actually develops deeper flavors overnight. Let your soup cool, then transfer it to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to four days, and win at meal prep every single time!

Freezing

Planning for future cravings? Freeze cooled Cabbage Soup in sealed containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Leave a little space at the top to allow the soup to expand as it freezes, and be sure to label the date so nothing gets lost at the back of the freezer.

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy your soup again, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring gently until it reaches a simmer. If you’re reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge first. You can also microwave single servings for a speedy, comforting meal on the fly.

FAQs

Can I add protein to Cabbage Soup?

Absolutely! Stir in cooked beans, shredded chicken, or even browned ground turkey to turn your vegetable soup into a complete, protein-packed main course.

Which is better—vegetable broth or chicken broth?

Both options yield fantastic soup! Vegetable broth keeps the recipe vegan and bright, while chicken broth lends a bit more heartiness. Use whichever you love or have on hand.

Is Cabbage Soup good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s ideal for meal prepping. The flavors continue to meld and improve with time, making this soup taste even better over the next few days. Portion it out for ready-to-go lunches or dinners all week long.

How do I make Cabbage Soup spicier?

If you like heat, toss in some red pepper flakes, a splash of hot sauce, or even chopped fresh chili when you add the broth. Season to taste so you get just the right kick.

What else can I add for more flavor?

Try stirring in a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for bright acidity, or add a spoonful of tomato paste along with the tomatoes for a richer body and depth. Experiment with different herbs or even a bay leaf in the simmering step for added complexity.

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage Soup truly proves that simple, wholesome ingredients can transform into something deeply satisfying and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, it’s a recipe that welcomes creativity and sharing. Give it a try, and let its vibrant, comforting flavors win over your table!

Cabbage Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This hearty and healthy cabbage soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a light meal option. Packed with a variety of vegetables and flavorful herbs, this vegan and gluten-free soup is easy to make and delicious to enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetable Mixture:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
1 zucchini, diced

Soup Base:

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Cook Vegetables: Add the carrots and celery, cook for 5 minutes. Stir in cabbage, zucchini, tomatoes, and broth. Add oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Simmer: Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley before serving.