Weight Loss Cabbage Soup

This hearty weight loss cabbage soup recipe has transformed my healthy eating routine, providing a low calorie, satisfying meal in just 40 minutes from start to finish. Bursting with nutritious vegetables, this easy cabbage soup is perfect for meal prep and supports weight management goals with only 85 calories per bowl. Whether you're looking to lose weight, boost nutrition, or enjoy a flavorful plant-based soup, this recipe delivers big results with minimal effort.

I first created this weight loss cabbage soup during a personal health reset when I needed a comforting, wholesome meal that would keep me feeling full but still support my goals. After tweaking the spices and trying different vegetable combinations, I learned that a touch of paprika deepens the overall flavor, and the right balance of herbs adds complexity. My family now requests it regularly, not just for its health benefits but because it tastes amazing and leaves everyone feeling light yet satisfied.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Provides healthy fats that support nutrient absorption and create a silky base (use avocado oil for a similar result)
• Onion, diced (1 medium): Adds sweetness and forms an aromatic foundation; yellow or white onions both work
• Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Enriches the soup with immune boosting flavor, but you can use garlic powder if needed
• Cabbage, chopped (1 medium head, about 8 cups): The star, naturally low in calories and high in fiber for fullness (savoy or napa cabbage may be substituted)
• Carrots, sliced (2 medium): Infuse color, vitamin A, and natural sweetness; add more for extra fiber
• Celery, chopped (2 stalks): Gives subtle savory notes and minerals; can substitute fennel for a twist
• Bell pepper, diced (1): Brings brightness and vitamin C; any color works for this soup
• Vegetable or chicken broth (6 cups): Creates a robust base; use vegetable broth for vegan soup; homemade adds extra flavor
• Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Boosts acidity, umami, and beneficial antioxidants; use fire roasted for a smokier taste
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Mediterranean flavor that works well with cabbage and tomatoes
• Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Supports the tomato notes; fresh basil may be added at the end for intensity
• Paprika (half teaspoon): Gives subtle warmth and appealing color; smoked paprika for a more complex flavor
• Black pepper (quarter teaspoon): Enhances savory depth throughout the soup
• Salt (1 teaspoon or to taste): Lifts and balances all other flavors; taste and adjust as needed
• Bay leaves (2): Imparts subtle complexity; always remove before serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Adds a fresh, bright finish and extra vitamin K; cilantro or dill add a different note

How to Make Weight Loss Cabbage Soup

Prepare Your Aromatic Base With Olive Oil and Onion:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until just shimmering, then add finely diced onion. Sauté for three to four minutes, stirring often, until onions are translucent and develop a slight golden edge. This step is key for layering rich flavor into your soup and preventing harsh onion bite.

Activate The Garlic:

Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning. You’ll notice a fragrant aroma rise from the pot, signaling that the garlic is ready and will impart its savory essence to the base.

Build The Vegetable Layer:

Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, celery, and diced bell pepper, stirring to combine. Cook for about five minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening and release their flavors. The cabbage will wilt slightly, making it easier to blend with other vegetables.

Create The Flavorful Broth:

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir thoroughly to ensure all vegetables are coated, and the acidity from tomatoes will help balance sweet and savory components.

Season The Soup:

Sprinkle in oregano, basil, paprika, black pepper, salt, and add the bay leaves. Stir the seasonings throughout the soup for even distribution. These classic herbs and spices give depth and roundness without overwhelming the fresh vegetables.

Simmer To Perfection:

Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce to a low simmer. Cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, just until all vegetables are fork tender but not mushy. Watch for the cabbage to become translucent as a sign of doneness.

Finish And Adjust:

Remove the bay leaves and taste the soup. Adjust salt or pepper to preference, ensuring the broth tastes bright and full. This step lets you tailor the balance of flavors before serving.

Add Fresh Herbs:

Stir in chopped fresh parsley just before serving. This lifts the flavor with a burst of freshness and brings vibrant color to the finished soup.

Serve And Enjoy:

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. This weight loss cabbage soup is best enjoyed warm for optimal comfort and satisfaction.

Store For Later:

If prepping ahead, cool the soup fully, then transfer to airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners for up to five days.

The moment I realized how transformative a touch of paprika and the right herb blend could be for cabbage soup was after sharing a pot with neighbors. Not only did they ask for the recipe, but one friend credited the soup with helping her lose eight pounds in two weeks without feeling deprived. This homemade vegetable soup has since become a crowd favorite whether for a healthy reset or a cozy weekend meal.

Smart Swaps and Variations

This weight loss cabbage soup adapts easily to seasonal produce and dietary needs. For an Italian flair, add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning with a pinch of red pepper flakes, or boost protein by stirring in two cups of shredded chicken, a can of white beans, or cubes of tofu in the final five minutes. Craving spice? Add a quarter teaspoon cayenne or some chopped jalapeño to increase metabolism supporting heat without many extra calories. You can also swap in savoy or napa cabbage for a milder texture or toss in a handful of greens near the end for added nutrition.

How to Store and Reheat Weight Loss Cabbage Soup

Let the soup cool completely before portioning into airtight glass containers, then refrigerate for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze individual servings for up to three months using silicone freezer bags or freezer safe glass jars. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use your microwave's defrost setting. Reheat gently on the stove over medium low heat until steaming or microwave covered for two to three minutes, adding extra broth if the soup has thickened during storage for best consistency.

What to Serve with Weight Loss Cabbage Soup

This hearty cabbage soup stands on its own, but you can round out your meal by adding a quarter cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra satisfaction. Pair it with a hard boiled egg, a few ounces of grilled chicken, or a small portion of lean fish for complete protein. On chilly days, enjoy a slice of whole grain toast or a side salad tossed with lemon, herbs, and fresh greens for even more nutrients and variety.

Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of weight loss cabbage soup offers remarkable nutrition: with high fiber for fullness, over seventy percent of your daily vitamin C, and only eighty five calories per bowl. Cabbage is loaded with vitamin K and valuable phytonutrients that may help reduce inflammation and support digestive health. The blend of fresh vegetables delivers a mix of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall well-being and steady blood sugar levels while making weight loss easier to sustain.

Recipe Success Tips

For the most flavorful cabbage soup, be sure to sauté the onions until golden before adding garlic and remaining vegetables—this extra color means extra umami depth in every spoonful. If your soup tastes a little flat, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten it. Remember, cabbage shrinks dramatically during cooking, so don't be tempted to reduce the starting quantity—you'll end up with the perfect amount once simmered.

This weight loss cabbage soup is my ultimate reset meal—nourishing, delicious, and ready to support your health journey without any feeling of deprivation. Enjoy every bowl knowing you’ve chosen a meal that truly makes feeling your best both satisfying and easy.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I add extra protein to this cabbage soup?

Yes, you can stir in cooked chicken breast or white beans for a protein boost without compromising the low-calorie focus.

→ How long does cabbage soup last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ What vegetables can I substitute in this soup?

You can use zucchini, spinach, or green beans as tasty additions or swaps to match your preferences and enhance variety.

→ Is this soup suitable for vegetarian diets?

Absolutely, as long as you use vegetable broth, this soup is completely vegetarian and can be easily made vegan as well.

→ Can this soup be frozen for later?

Yes, this soup freezes well for up to three months, making it an excellent option for meal planning ahead.