There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of cabbage soup that just feels good for your body and soul. This Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe is simple, fresh, and packed with flavor — perfect for when you want something light but satisfying.

A white bowl filled with clear broth soup containing three main layers: a base of light brown clear liquid, followed by soft chopped cabbage leaves in pale green and white colors scattered throughout, and small diced pieces of bright orange carrots, light green celery, and red tomato chunks mixed inside, topped with specks of chopped dark green herbs and black pepper. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, partially submerged. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a white and black striped cloth visible near the bottom left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made this cabbage soup more times than I can count, especially on days when I wanted something easy, gluten-free, and truly heart-warming. It’s healthy but never feels like a sacrifice — just pure, fresh ingredients doing their magic.

Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen, making it a quick go-to meal.
Light Yet Flavorful: This soup fills you up without weighing you down — perfect for mindful eating.
Flexible & Customizable: You can easily adjust veggies and seasoning based on what you have and enjoy.
Great for Meal Prep: It stores and reheats beautifully, making your busy week easier.

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic of this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe is in the harmony of its simple, fresh ingredients. Each veggie brings texture and nutrients, while the herbs add that gentle earthiness that transforms the soup from plain to memorable.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of golden olive oil, a whole yellow onion with its papery skin, a large bright orange carrot, two fresh celery stalks with leaves, two whole garlic bulbs with unpeeled cloves, a small white ceramic bowl filled with dried oregano, another small white bowl with dried basil, a small white bowl of coarse salt, half a fresh green cabbage cut to show leafy texture, a small white bowl holding diced fresh red tomatoes, a small white bowl with clear vegetable broth, a small white bowl with bright yellow lemon juice, a few sprigs of fresh green parsley, and a scattering of whole black peppercorns arranged symmetrically, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Olive Oil: The base of flavor and helps soften the onions and veggies, adding richness without heaviness.
Onion: Adds a natural sweetness that deepens during cooking and balances the cabbage’s bite.
Carrot: Brings a subtle sweetness and lovely color contrast that brightens the soup.
Celery: The classic soup veggie that gives a mild savory crunch and depth.
Garlic: A must for that warm, aromatic punch that lifts all the flavors.
Dried Oregano & Basil: These herbs quietly deepen the soup’s complexity without overpowering it.
Salt: Essential for seasoning — don’t skip or skimp!
Cabbage: The star — tender, slightly sweet, and filling without heaviness.
Diced Tomatoes: They bring acidity and a little tang to brighten up all the savory flavors.
Vegetable Broth: Adds body and a savory base. Use a good-quality one for the best flavor.
Lemon Juice: A final splash that adds brightness and a fresh zing to finish the soup.
Fresh Parsley: Invigorates the bowl with a fresh herbal note just before serving.
Cracked Black Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity — freshly cracked is key!

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I adore about this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your taste or what’s sitting in your fridge. I often swap out herbs or add a bit more garlic just for that extra oomph.

Add Heat: I’ve tossed in a pinch of red pepper flakes to kick up the spice; it warms you right up on chilly days.
Make It Heartier: When I want more protein, I sometimes stir in cooked white beans or lentils – perfect for a filling meal.
Seasonal Boost: Sometimes, I throw in chopped kale or spinach near the end for an extra green punch.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe

A white pot sits on a white marbled surface filled with soup ingredients layered inside. The bottom layer is a clear, light brown broth mixed with chopped light green cabbage, orange and light green diced vegetables like carrots and celery. On top of this mix sits a bright red heap of diced tomatoes. A woman's hand is pouring a light brown liquid from a white measuring cup into the pot from the right side. The pot has a clean design with two white handles visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Sauté the Base Veggies

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrot, and celery, and let them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll want to see the onions become soft and translucent — that’s when the flavor really starts to build. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks or burns.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, add the minced garlic along with dried oregano, basil, and salt. Stir everything together and cook it just for about a minute until fragrant. This step wakes up the garlic’s flavor without letting it turn bitter.

Step 3: Cook the Cabbage Gently

Now, add the chopped cabbage. Stir it in and let it sweat down for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. The cabbage will soften and start releasing moisture, melding with the other veggies for that cozy soup base.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring everything to a gentle simmer, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. You want the veggies soft but not mushy — keep tasting and adjust the timing based on your texture preference.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Flavors and Seasoning

Once the soup’s ready, remove it from heat and stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley. A good crack of black pepper on top adds that finishing touch. Taste and adjust salt or lemon if needed; this last step brightens everything up.

Top Tip

Through all my attempts at perfecting this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe, I’ve found a few simple tricks that really elevate the result.

Sauté Gently: Don’t rush the initial veggie cook — soft onions and celery build a flavor base that matters.
Don’t Skip the Lemon: That squeeze of lemon at the end is the secret ingredient that lightens and brightens the whole pot.
Fresh Herbs Are Key: Stir in parsley last-minute so it keeps its flavor and vibrant color.
Watch Texture Closely: Cabbage goes from firm and peppery to tender and sweet — I keep tasting to nail my favorite point.

How to Serve Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I like to garnish this soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few thin slices of green onion for extra freshness and a hint of crunch. Sometimes, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil on top adds lovely creaminess without slowing things down.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty whole grain bread or a warm, soft roll to mop up every last drop. On lighter days, I keep it simple with a small mixed green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve served this healthy cabbage soup in mason jars for casual lunchbox treats or at cozy gatherings in wide-rimmed soup bowls topped with a swirl of herb oil. Adding toasted pumpkin seeds on top brings a fun texture surprise your guests will appreciate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it stays fresh and tasty for 4 to 5 days, making it my go-to lunch meal prep throughout the week.

Freezing

Freezing this soup has been a game changer for me. I portion it into Souper Cubes trays so I can thaw just what I need. It freezes well for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

When reheating, I gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Sometimes I add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. This slow reheating keeps everything tasting fresh and vibrant.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally plant-based as long as you use vegetable broth. No animal products are required to enjoy it.

How long does the soup last in the fridge?

It stays good for about 4 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always let it cool completely before storing for best results.

Can I add meat or protein to this soup?

Definitely! You can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans for some plant-based protein. Just stir them in near the end so they don’t overcook.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover soup?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a little broth or water helps if the soup feels too thick. Microwave works too, but watch to avoid drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe will likely become one of your favorite simple, healthy meals — it’s comforting, adaptable, and easy enough to make anytime. I hope you find as much joy and satisfaction in making and savoring this soup as I do. Go ahead, try it out and make it your own staple!