If you’re looking for a hearty, low-calorie soup to help you stay on track with your weight loss goals, the Weight Watchers cabbage soup recipe is a fantastic option. This soup is not only delicious and satisfying but also features a host of zero-point ingredients that make it an ideal choice for those following the Weight Watchers program.
Cabbage soup has long been a staple for weight loss, and for good reason. It’s packed with nutrient-dense vegetables that are filling and full of fiber while being low in calories. Whether you’re following a Weight Watchers plan or simply looking to add more healthy meals to your diet, this cabbage soup will quickly become one of your favorites. Learn more about the Weight Watchers point system to understand how this soup fits perfectly into your daily eating plan.
This article will walk you through every step of making Weight Watchers cabbage soup, explore the benefits of this recipe, and provide variations to suit different taste preferences. We’ll also dive into frequently asked questions about cabbage soup and dieting, ensuring you have all the information you need to enjoy this healthy, delicious meal.
Why Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup is Popular
There are several reasons why the Weight Watchers cabbage soup has gained popularity over the years, particularly among people aiming to lose weight:
- It’s made from zero-point ingredients, meaning you can enjoy multiple servings without worrying about consuming too many points.
- The high fiber content keeps you full and satisfied longer, making it easier to avoid unhealthy snacks.
- Cabbage is packed with vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for overall health, such as vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adapt it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. It’s perfect for those who need a quick, healthy, and low-calorie meal.
In addition to being a great option for weight loss, this soup is easy to make in large batches, making it ideal for meal prepping. For a fun twist, consider serving this soup alongside some comfort dishes, like French onion meatloaf, which complements the lightness of cabbage soup with a hearty and flavorful dish.
Key Ingredients for Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
To create the perfect Weight Watchers cabbage soup, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. These are all low-calorie, high-fiber vegetables, with the soup being naturally low in fat and carbs:
- Cabbage: 1 small head of cabbage, chopped. This is the star ingredient, full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Carrots: 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced, for a touch of sweetness and color.
- Celery: 2 stalks of celery, diced. Celery adds crunch and additional fiber.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, diced, providing a savory base for the soup.
- Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced, for an extra layer of flavor.
- Broth: 4 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option). The broth provides a savory liquid base for the soup.
- Tomatoes: 1 can of diced tomatoes (14 oz), which adds acidity and a slight sweetness to the soup.
- Green Beans: 1 cup of green beans, chopped, for extra fiber and nutrition.
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper to taste, along with herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley to add depth of flavor.
These ingredients are not only low in calories but also packed with nutrients, making the soup both healthy and filling. You can easily double the recipe to make more servings for the week.
Ingredient Substitutions
One of the best things about Weight Watchers cabbage soup is that it’s flexible. Here are some easy ingredient substitutions and additions:
- Broth: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also use beef broth for a richer flavor.
- Add-ins: Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more variety. These vegetables also have low-calorie counts and are rich in vitamins.
- Proteins: For those who want to make the soup more filling, consider adding shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even tofu to the mix.
Looking to add more flavors to your table? Pair this soup with a hearty casserole like Stuffed Pepper Casserole for a balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Here’s a detailed guide on how to make the perfect Weight Watchers cabbage soup:
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Begin by chopping the cabbage, carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large soup pot, heat a small amount of olive oil (optional) and sauté the onions and garlic over medium heat until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add the vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, celery, and green beans to the pot. Stir them together and let them cook for a few minutes to soften slightly.
- Add the broth and tomatoes: Pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth and the diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season and serve: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste. If you like, you can also add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Serve the soup hot and enjoy!
This recipe should yield around 6-8 servings, depending on portion sizes. It’s an ideal meal for lunch or dinner, and it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or a small whole grain roll for a complete meal.
Cooking Methods
You can also prepare Weight Watchers cabbage soup in different ways depending on the equipment you have:
- Slow Cooker: Add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to cook the onions and garlic, then add the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally.
For a nutrient boost, you can serve this soup alongside a healthy salad like the Tomato and Avocado Salad, which adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to your meal.
Variations of Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
There are many ways to adapt this Weight Watchers cabbage soup to suit your personal preferences. Below are a few popular variations that add variety while keeping the soup healthy:
Protein-Packed Version
- Add lean protein: You can include chicken, turkey, or tofu for added protein. If you’re not concerned about adding points to your Weight Watchers plan, try ground beef or sausage. For vegetarians, beans like black beans, chickpeas, or lentils can provide a plant-based protein boost.
Spicy Cabbage Soup
- Go spicy: Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce if you prefer a bit of heat. You could also incorporate a chopped jalapeño pepper for a stronger kick.
Extra Veggies
- Bulk up with extra vegetables: Try adding zucchini, spinach, kale, or cauliflower rice for more fiber and nutrition. These vegetables are all low-calorie and add extra texture and flavor to the soup.
Heartier Version
- Hearty beans: For a heartier version, toss in some black beans, kidney beans, or lentils. Beans add protein, fiber, and bulk to the soup, making it more filling.
If you’re looking for more variety in your meals, consider pairing the cabbage soup with a light side dish, such as Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots, which brings a delicious contrast to the soup’s flavors.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown of this Weight Watchers cabbage soup:
- Calories: Around 70 per serving
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Weight Watchers Points: 0 per serving (for the basic version without added proteins or fats)
This soup is extremely low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle. The high fiber content, thanks to the vegetables, helps with digestion and makes the soup very filling.
The best part is that it’s a zero-point food on Weight Watchers, meaning you can enjoy multiple servings without worrying about using up your daily points.
Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup
Weight Watchers cabbage soup is not only a fantastic option for weight loss but also comes with several health benefits. Here are some of the key advantages:
High in Vitamins and Minerals
- Rich in vitamins: Cabbage is packed with essential vitamins like C, K, and B6. Vitamin C helps boost your immune system, while vitamin K is important for blood clotting and bone health. B6 plays a vital role in metabolism.
- Low in Calories: With around 70 calories per serving, this soup is an excellent low-calorie meal that can support weight loss and help you stay within your daily calorie limits.
Supports Digestive Health
- High in fiber: Cabbage is naturally high in dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and regularity. Fiber also helps you feel full longer, which can prevent overeating and unhealthy snacking.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
- Anti-inflammatory: Cabbage contains powerful antioxidants like anthocyanins and flavonoids that help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to many diseases, including heart disease and diabetes.
For a nutrient boost, you can serve this soup alongside a light salad or fresh vegetables like in this Zucchini Soup Recipe, which offers a unique texture and flavor while remaining low in calories.
Tips for Making the Best Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup
- Meal Prep: This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch at the start of the week and portion it out for easy meals. It stores well in the refrigerator and reheats beautifully.
- Freezer-friendly: Cabbage soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. You can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
- Enhance the flavor: The flavor of the soup improves as it sits. Don’t be afraid to make it a day ahead if you plan to serve it for guests or enjoy it later in the week. Reheating helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
For more tips on storing and reheating soups safely, check out this resource on storing and reheating soups properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the cabbage soup diet really help you lose weight?
Yes, the cabbage soup diet can help with short-term weight loss due to its low-calorie nature. However, it’s not a long-term solution for sustainable weight loss. The soup is great as part of a balanced diet, but relying solely on it for extended periods is not recommended for overall nutrition.
How many times a day do you eat cabbage soup on the cabbage soup diet?
On the traditional cabbage soup diet, you eat the soup 2-3 times a day, often supplemented with other low-calorie foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. However, it’s essential to ensure you’re getting enough nutrients from a variety of foods to avoid nutrient deficiencies.
What is the cabbage soup diet called?
The diet is commonly referred to as the Cabbage Soup Diet, which involves eating primarily cabbage soup for a set number of days, typically 7. It’s a short-term weight loss solution that some people use to jump-start their diet.
Is cabbage soup zero calories?
While it’s extremely low in calories, cabbage soup is not completely calorie-free. However, it is zero points on the Weight Watchers system, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking to stay within their daily points limit.
Conclusion
Weight Watchers cabbage soup is an excellent, low-calorie meal that is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re on the Weight Watchers program or simply looking for a healthy, fiber-rich soup, this recipe offers versatility and flavor. With its zero-point value and endless customization options, it’s a great addition to any weight loss journey.
If you’re looking for even more recipe inspiration, check out other healthy options on Lia Recipes. You’ll find a variety of meals that can complement your healthy eating habits, like the flavorful Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes or the refreshing Tomato and Avocado Salad.
This recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also help you achieve your weight loss and wellness goals!
