This Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is a light and tasty dish, perfect for warming up on chilly days. It’s made with fresh cabbage, crunchy veggies, and flavorful broth!
The best part? You can enjoy as much as you want without worrying about the calories. I like to keep a big pot on the stove—it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies! 🥬
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star of this soup. It’s crunchy and adds bulk without many calories. If you want something a bit different, you can substitute napa cabbage for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Carrots: They provide natural sweetness and color. If you’re looking for a low-carb version, you could use diced zucchini instead.
Broth: Low-sodium vegetable broth keeps this soup light. For extra flavor, you might try chicken broth or homemade broth if you have it. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly!
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are convenient, but fresh tomatoes work too if you have them on hand. Just chop them up; you might need about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes.
How Do I Ensure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Tender?
Getting the vegetables just right is key to a great soup. Here’s how to guarantee tenderness without overcooking:
- Start by sautéing the onions until they are soft. This builds a flavor base.
- Cook the bell pepper and carrots until they just start to soften before adding cabbage.
- Cover the pot once you add liquid; this creates steam and helps cook the veggies evenly.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially with cabbage. It usually takes just 30-40 minutes to become tender.
Taste the soup before serving, and if any vegetable feels too firm, let it simmer a bit longer. This soup is all about those lovely, tender bites!
Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 4 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no salt added)
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need about 50 minutes before you get to enjoy this hearty soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
If you like a bit of richness, start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
2. Add Aromatics and Veggies:
Next, throw in the minced garlic, chopped green bell pepper, and diced carrots. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will combine the flavors beautifully!
3. Stir in the Cabbage:
Now, add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Give it a good stir to mix it with the other veggies so it gets coated with all those delicious flavors.
4. Pour in Liquids:
Take the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) and pour it into the pot. Add the 6 cups of broth next. This is where the soup starts to come together!
5. Season It Up:
Add the dried parsley, dried basil, black pepper, and if you want, some salt. Stir everything to combine nicely. This will give the soup its fantastic flavor!
6. Simmer to Perfection:
Now, bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes. This allows all the veggies to become wonderfully tender.
7. Adjust the Flavor:
Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like it a bit saltier or more herby, sprinkle in a bit more of those flavors!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, and feel free to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that lovely pop of color. Enjoy this comforting, low-calorie dish that’s perfect for any meal!
This Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is not only soothing and delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for your healthy eating plan. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or even spinach. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetables you choose.
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply sauté the onions and garlic in a pan, then transfer all the ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
How Long Will Leftover Soup Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Can I Substitute the Broth with Water?
While you can use water, the broth adds a lot of flavor to the soup. If you don’t have broth on hand, consider adding herbs or spices to enhance the taste when using water.
