The Best Cabbage Soup (Healthy, Hearty, and Full of Flavor)

There are many reasons why cabbage soup has been loved through the years. When prepared correctly, it’s nourishing, incredibly budget-friendly, and packed with flavor in every spoonful. This recipe isn’t the bland, tasteless, ‘diet’ version from decades ago. Instead, it has big pieces of cabbage with tender chunks of vegetables simmered slowly in a savory, tomato-herb-based broth, and comes together to create a cabbage soup that delivers pure, delicious comfort every time.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

Cabbage soup may be one of the simplest dishes, but don’t let its modesty fool you — this recipe delivers big rewards with very little effort. Here’s why this version is a true winner:

• Budget-Friendly and Easy – Cabbage is one of the most inexpensive vegetables you can buy, yet it yields a generous pot of soup. This cabbage soup recipe is so simple. Chop, simmer, serve . . . done!
• Healthy and Naturally Nourishing – Cabbage is packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber — all without adding heaviness.
• Light… Yet Comforting – Unlike heavy winter soups, cabbage soup feels satisfying without weighing you down. This soup is filling and perfect for those days when your body wants something wholesome but not heavy. So you get the best of both worlds. The reason why it’s a favorite dish for those wanting to lose or maintain weight.
• Fantastic Layers of Flavor – Slow-simmered cabbage, tender vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a savory broth come together for a delightful home-cooked dish. The fire-roasted tomatoes add a layer of sweet, smoky flavor that enhances a simple vegetable broth. The addition of a rind of Italian Parmigiano takes it over the top! Plus, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
• Versatile and Customizable – A true classic cabbage soup recipe does not include white beans or pasta shells simply to keep the calories and carbs to a minimum. Yes, you can make those additions if you like, since this cabbage soup is incredibly forgiving. There are even recipes that include ground beef or chicken.

Andiamo a Cucina!

(Let’s go to the kitchen!)

Gather the Ingredients That You’ll Need

This cabbage soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients — nothing fancy at all. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – to sauté the sofritto vegetables
• Green Cabbage – sliced or chopped, the star of the show
• Onion – yellow, finely chopped
• Carrots – chopped, for sweetness and color
• Celery – chopped, for a more flavorful base
• Garlic – freshly minced
• Fire-Roasted Chopped Tomatoes – for richness
• Italian Parsley – minced, adds an additional layer of flavor
• Salt and Black Pepper – essential seasoning
• Dried Oregano and/or Italian Seasoning – to add flavor
• Thyme and/or Dried Basil – optional for additional flavor
• Crushed Pepper Flakes – optional for a gentle warmth
• Tomato Paste – to thicken the soup and enhance the flavor
• Parmegiano Rind – for a richer soup, and one with a light Italian tone.

Please check out the video I created for this cabbage soup!

How to Make Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery (and leaves). Sauté cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 2: Add the garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.

Step 3: Season the Soup

Add preferred herbs and spices, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Add the tomato paste

Add the tomato paste and stir to combine.

Step 5: Add the vegetable broth and fire-roasted tomatoes.

You may want to add more later as the cabbage absorbs the liquid.

Step 6: Add the cabbage

Add the sliced cabbage and stir it into the sautéed vegetables. Let it cook down slightly — it will shrink as it softens.

Step 7: Add a rind of Parmigiano and simmer

Add rind of Parmigiano cheese to the soup and then cook at a low temperature and simmer for 1 hour, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have come together nicely.

Step 8: Taste and adjust

Remove the rind of Parmigiano. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—add extra salt, pepper, or herbs if necessary.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of Parmigiano if you like.

What to Serve with Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• Rotisserie chicken
• A simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Crusty Italian bread or garlic ciabatta
• A slice of focaccia
• A panini or grilled cheese sandwich
• A wedge of Parmigiano-Reggiano on the side

How to Store Cabbage Soup

One of the best parts about this soup is how well it keeps.

In the refrigerator:

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 – 5 days. The flavors deepen, and it tastes even better the next day.

In the freezer:

Let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to 3 months.

To reheat:

Warm soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. Microwave reheating also works perfectly.

Other Cabbage Recipes You Might Enjoy:

KFC Copycat Coleslaw

Asian Chopped Salad

Crunchy Chopped Thai Salad

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I hope this cabbage soup recipe brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and nourishing vegetables, this soup proves that humble meals can be deeply satisfying. Make a pot sometime soon, share it with someone you love, and enjoy the kind of wholesome cooking that never goes out of style. Save it, bookmark it, and make it often — because this is one recipe that always satisfies.

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