Cabbage soup is a classic, nutrient-dense recipe that’s perfect for those on a weight-loss journey, thanks to its flavorful ingredients and zero-point value on most WW (formerly Weight Watchers) plans. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a satisfying snack, or a healthy addition to your meal rotation, this soup is the perfect fit. Packed with vibrant vegetables, simple pantry staples, and plenty of spices, this recipe is a must-try for anyone aiming to eat well without compromising taste.

Let’s dive deep into this recipe to ensure your soup turns out absolutely perfect every time!


Why This Recipe Works

  1. Zero Points: On most WW plans, all the ingredients in this soup are zero-point foods, making it a guilt-free choice for any meal.
  2. Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from a variety of vegetables, this soup supports overall health while keeping you full.
  3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to match your taste preferences or use up what’s in your fridge.
  4. Meal Prep-Friendly: This soup stores well and can be made in large batches, making it ideal for meal prep or freezing for later.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8 | Approx. 1.5 Cups Per Serving)

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

Base and Liquids

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (no salt added)
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

Finishing Touches

  • Juice of 1/2 lemon (to brighten flavors)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Ingredients

Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables. This includes dicing the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery; peeling and slicing the carrots; trimming the green beans; and chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of water or a light spritz of cooking spray over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring frequently until fragrant and slightly softened (about 2-3 minutes). This step builds a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 3: Add Hearty Vegetables

Stir in the carrots, celery, and green beans. Cook these vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, letting them soften slightly while infusing their natural flavors into the soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Cabbage and Liquid Base

Add the chopped cabbage to the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato paste, vegetable broth, and water. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Season Generously

Add the dried thyme, basil, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings throughout the soup. Adjust the spices based on your flavor preferences or dietary needs.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the vegetables cook evenly.

Step 7: Brighten the Flavors

Once the vegetables are tender and the soup has developed a rich flavor, squeeze in the juice of half a lemon. This will enhance the soup’s freshness and balance the richness of the vegetables.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy it hot, either as a standalone dish or paired with a light side like whole-grain bread or a small salad.


Storage and Freezing Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
  • Freezer: Portion the soup into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Nutritional Information (Per 1.5-Cup Serving)

  • Calories: ~70
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 7g (natural from vegetables)
  • SmartPoints: 0 (on most WW plans)

Tips for Success

  1. Chop Evenly: Ensure all vegetables are chopped to similar sizes so they cook evenly.
  2. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup halfway through cooking and adjust seasonings as needed.
  3. Optional Add-Ins: For variety, consider adding zucchini, mushrooms, or kale. These are also zero-point vegetables.
  4. Make It Spicy: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

This WW Zero Point Cabbage Soup is not only a recipe but a lifestyle tool. It’s low in calories yet incredibly satisfying due to its high fiber content. The vibrant vegetables make it visually appealing, while the spices create a well-rounded flavor profile. Whether you’re trying to reset after indulgent meals or simply enjoy a healthy, homemade soup, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

By incorporating this soup into your meal plan, you’ll find it easier to stay on track without feeling deprived. Enjoy the process of making it and experimenting with variations that suit your taste buds!

By admin

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