This Hearty Vegetable Cabbage Soup is a nutritious and filling dish that’s perfect for any season. Packed with colorful vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, along with hearty cabbage, this soup is rich in flavor and fiber. The addition of Italian seasoning and white wine vinegar gives it a lovely depth, while the vegetable broth ties everything together. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or a nutritious starter, this soup fits the bill.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp ground pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 head cabbage, sliced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 2 tsp white wine vinegar
Directions:
- Cook Vegetables:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add 1 chopped onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Spices:
- Stir in 1 chopped red bell pepper, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon ground pepper, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Continue cooking for about 2 minutes until the spices release their fragrance.
- Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Pour in 8 cups of vegetable broth. Add 1 sliced head of cabbage and 1 chopped tomato.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover with a lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are softened.
- Finish & Serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons of white wine vinegar.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a slice of warm whole-grain bread for a complete meal.
- Serve with a simple side salad to add some freshness.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
- Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic until golden before adding the other vegetables.
- You can add other vegetables like zucchini or green beans for a variation.
- If you like a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in for a creamy texture.
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt content.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, supports digestive health, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Carrots provide beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant, which promotes eye health and boosts the immune system.
- Celery is high in fiber and low in calories, making it a great addition for heart health.
- Tomatoes add a dose of vitamin C and lycopene, known for its cancer-fighting properties.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan
- Gluten-Free
- Low-Calorie
- High in Fiber
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 120
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
Storage:
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months.
- Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: This soup is not only easy to make, but it’s also a nutrient-packed meal that’s full of flavor. It’s incredibly versatile and can be adjusted based on what vegetables you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this cabbage soup is satisfying without being heavy. The vinegar adds a nice tanginess, while the variety of vegetables makes each bite a wholesome experience.
Conclusion: This Hearty Vegetable Cabbage Soup is a perfect comfort food for all seasons. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy days. The combination of fresh vegetables, spices, and vinegar creates a well-balanced dish that is both satisfying and healthy. Enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup to warm you up on cold days or to nourish your body with wholesome goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables can work in this recipe, but fresh vegetables will give the best flavor and texture. - Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two in the fridge. Just reheat when ready to serve. - What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
You can use water with a vegetable bouillon cube or a homemade vegetable stock as a substitute. - Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken or turkey for added protein. - Is this soup spicy?
No, this soup isn’t spicy. However, you can add hot peppers or chili flakes to suit your taste. - Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours in a slow cooker. - What is white wine vinegar, and can I use another type of vinegar?
White wine vinegar has a mild tang. You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar if needed. - Can I add beans to this soup?
Yes, beans like cannellini or kidney beans would add great texture and protein. - How do I make this soup heartier?
You can add potatoes, lentils, or beans to make the soup more filling. - Can I blend the soup?
Yes, for a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup or all of it, depending on your preference.