Here’s a hearty, cozy, and nourishing recipe for classic Cabbage Soup — simple ingredients, big flavor, and perfect for meal prep or a light, healthy meal.

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🥣 Classic Cabbage Soup

Serves: 6–8

Prep Time: 10–15 minutes

Cook Time: 30–40 minutes

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⭐ Ingredients

• 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1–2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt (add more to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Optional add-ins:
  • 1–2 potatoes, diced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Red pepper flakes for heat

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🍲 Instructions

1. Sauté the base

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
4. Stir in bell peppers, paprika, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

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2. Add cabbage and liquids

1. Add chopped cabbage to the pot (it may look like a lot; it will shrink).
2. Pour in broth and add diced tomatoes.
3. Add potatoes or zucchini if using.
4. Stir and bring to a boil.

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3. Simmer

• Reduce heat and simmer 25–30 minutes, or until cabbage is tender and flavors have blended.
• Taste and adjust seasoning.

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🌿 Serving Suggestions

• A squeeze of fresh lemon
• Fresh parsley
• A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
• A slice of crusty bread

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🔥 Variations

Spicy Cabbage Soup

Add 1–2 tsp red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Protein-Boosted

Add:

• Shredded chicken
• Cooked ground turkey
• White beans or lentils

Mediterranean Style

Add:

• Olives
• Chickpeas
• A swirl of pesto before serving

Low-Carb Version

Skip potatoes and add more zucchini or mushrooms.

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