Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner that won't derail your Weight Watchers journey? Look no further! This vibrant and flavorful cabbage soup is packed with nutrients, low in calories, and surprisingly satisfying. It's a perfect example of how delicious and healthy food recipes can be. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner idea, but also adaptable enough for a leisurely weekend cooking session. Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with this simple yet effective recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: 1 cup cooked lean ground beef or chicken (adjust Weight Watchers points accordingly)
- Salt to taste (use sparingly)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step builds a fantastic flavor base for your soup.
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Add the remaining vegetables: Add the green bell pepper and shredded cabbage to the pot. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to wilt slightly.
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Simmer the soup: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, pepper, and bay leaf. If using meat, add it now. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
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Season and serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and season with salt, if needed, but remember to use it sparingly to keep the sodium content low. This healthy meal is best served hot, and can be enjoyed as is or with a side of whole-wheat bread (adjust your Weight Watchers points accordingly).
Cooking Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup:
- Don't overcook the cabbage: Overcooked cabbage can become mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile. This is a great way to use up leftover vegetables.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Hearty Cabbage Soup: Add 1 cup of cooked lentils or beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Cabbage Soup: Omit the meat for a delicious vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without meat):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Always check your nutrition labels for accurate information.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
This Weight Watchers-friendly cabbage soup recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. It's perfect for those aiming for weight loss or simply looking for a nutritious and flavorful addition to their diet. Enjoy this delicious dish, and remember that adapting recipes to fit your personal preferences is a key part of enjoying homemade cooking!