Name: Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large carrots, chopped; ½ onion, chopped; 1½ cups green beans, cut into ½ inch pieces; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 3 celery stalks, chopped; 1 medium head cabbage, chopped; 1 – 16 oz can whole tomatoes with liquid; 1 quart V8 juice; 1 – 14 oz can beef broth; 1 – 1 oz envelope dry onion soup mix; 2-3 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Water, enough to cover the vegetables

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 78 reviews

If you’re looking for a vibrant, hearty, and surprisingly delicious way to refresh your meals, the Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe is here to brighten your kitchen and your plate. This recipe combines simple, wholesome vegetables with a flavorful broth that is both comforting and light. It’s not just for dieting—it’s a wonderful option for anyone craving a nourishing bowl full of texture and taste that feels as good to eat as it does to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round white pot filled with two main layers: the bottom layer consists of chopped light green cabbage pieces with a soft, leafy texture, and the top layer shows bright orange carrot slices scattered evenly among the cabbage, creating a contrast of color. A wooden spoon with a light brown handle rests inside the pot on the right side. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth with green stripes partly underneath the pot on the left side. Around the pot, there are small round white bowls with spices in shades of red, brown, and beige, a bunch of green parsley on the top left, and a lemon wedge on the top right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these easy-to-find ingredients is the first step toward creating a soup that’s packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and texture, making the soup both satisfying and fresh.

2 large carrots, chopped: Adds sweetness and a tender bite that complements the cabbage perfectly.
½ onion, chopped: Provides a subtle savory depth that forms the soup’s flavorful base.
1 ½ cups green beans, cut into ½ inch pieces: Offers a crisp texture and vibrant green color to brighten the dish.
1 green bell pepper, diced: Brings a slightly sweet and earthy note, enhancing the overall flavor.
3 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a refreshing crunch and aromatic undertone.
1 medium head cabbage, chopped: The star of the recipe, delivering a tender, slightly sweet foundation.
1 – 16 oz can whole tomatoes with liquid: Introduces acidity and richness that elevate the broth.
1 quart V8 juice: Infuses the soup with a medley of vegetable flavors and vibrant color.
1 – 14 oz can beef broth: Gives the soup a robust, hearty flavor that rounds out the vegetables beautifully.
1 – 1 oz envelope dry onion soup mix: A handy seasoning that intensifies the savory taste with minimal effort.
2 – 3 bay leaves: Imparts an aromatic depth that lingers in every spoonful.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle herbaceous brightness to balance the flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the natural tastes harmoniously.

How to Make Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies

Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. The cabbage takes center stage here, so make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and texture. Preparing the veggies ahead of time sets a smooth pace for the cooking process.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Large Pot

Next, place all the chopped vegetables into a spacious pot. Pour in the V8 juice, beef broth, and the whole canned tomatoes with their liquid. Then add the dry onion soup mix, bay leaves, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper, and don’t forget to add enough water to cover all the veggies—this ensures every ingredient simmers to tender perfection.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil and Simmer

Bring your pot to a rolling boil on high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for about 25 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. This is when the soup thickens slightly and becomes wonderfully fragrant.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Once the soup has softened and the aromas have filled your kitchen, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper according to your preference. After this final touch, your comforting bowl of Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe is ready for the table.

How to Serve Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe

The image shows a white pot filled with a colorful soup. The soup has a base of light orange broth with visible chunks of cabbage, slices of orange carrots, and pieces of red tomatoes. On top, there are three piles of fresh green herbs: chopped cilantro, chopped green onions, and minced garlic, and two piles of yellow zest placed near the center. A wooden spoon rests inside the pot, slightly angled to the right. The pot is set on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth with green borders beside it, and a small white bowl with some ground spice is visible on the top right of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving your cabbage soup with a few garnishes can elevate the experience. Consider freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to add an extra layer of flavor and a dash of color that makes the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This soup works wonderfully with simple sides. Try crusty whole grain bread for dipping or a light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to keep the meal balanced and satisfying without overshadowing the soup’s fresh flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and cozy meal experience, serve the soup in individual bread bowls or pair it with a colorful array of roasted vegetables on the side. You can also spice things up by adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating to brighten each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cabbage soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the fresh flavors and prevent the vegetables from becoming too soft. It’s perfect for a quick, nutritious lunch throughout the week.

Freezing

To enjoy this soup later, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. The soup freezes well and maintains its taste and texture for up to three months, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep or storing for busy days.

Reheating

When reheating, thaw if frozen, then warm gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This prevents scorching and keeps the soup tasting just like freshly made, ready to comfort you with every spoonful.

FAQs

Is the Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe suitable for weight loss?

Absolutely! This cabbage soup is low in calories but rich in fiber and nutrients, making it a great option for anyone looking to shed some pounds while still enjoying a flavorful meal.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, substituting vegetable broth is a great way to make the recipe vegetarian-friendly without compromising flavor. It will keep the soup just as hearty and satisfying.

How spicy is this soup?

The traditional recipe is mild, but you can customize the heat by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorites like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for a personalized twist while keeping the soul of the Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe intact.

What is the best way to store leftover soup?

Store leftover cabbage soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freezing is ideal, just be sure to reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe—it’s simple, nourishing, and full of vibrant flavors that make healthy eating feel like a treat. Whether you’re in it for the diet benefits or just want a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. So grab your ingredients, get chopping, and dive into the deliciousness waiting for you in this beautiful soup!