Cabbage Detox Soup: Clean, Nourishing & Naturally Delicious

After a week of rich meals and sweet treats, I always turn to this Cabbage Detox Soup. It’s light, packed with fresh veggies, and full of flavor — not the bland “diet soup” people imagine. With cabbage, carrots, celery, and tomatoes simmered in a fragrant broth, it’s the perfect way to reset your body while still eating something comforting and tasty.

The first time I made this was right after the holidays. I wanted something that felt cleansing without feeling restrictive. I tossed what I had into a pot — cabbage, carrots, onions, a few spices — and let it simmer away. The kitchen smelled fresh and cozy, and by the time I ladled it up, I knew I had a new go-to for healthy weeks.

Now, this Cabbage Detox Soup has a permanent spot next to my Snow Day Soup and Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole for those days when I want something nourishing but still satisfying.

Cabbage Detox Soup

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A fresh, flavorful, and light soup packed with cabbage, vegetables, and herbs — perfect for a nourishing reset after indulgent meals.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 bowls

Course: Healthy, Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: Detox, Vegan, Vegetarian

Calories: 95

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 tsp paprika
• 0.5 tsp thyme
• 0.5 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• — Optional Add-Ins —
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup spinach or kale
• 0.5 cup cooked beans (for protein)

Equipment

• large soup pot
• wooden spoon
• cutting board and knife
• ladle

Method

 

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Add chopped cabbage, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Stir to coat in the oil and mix with the aromatics.
3. Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and chili flakes if using. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
4. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
5. If using zucchini, spinach, or kale, stir them in during the last 5 minutes. Add lemon juice just before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
6. Serve hot, topped with fresh herbs or extra pepper. Great with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Nutrition

Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 3gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.2gSodium: 580mgPotassium: 410mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2900IUVitamin C: 42mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 1.3mg

Notes

This soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free. You can easily boost the protein with beans or lentils. It freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep!

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Why You’ll Love Cabbage Detox Soup

This soup is full of wholesome ingredients, low in calories, and high in fiber — but it’s also delicious. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and makes a big batch that’s perfect for meal prep. The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs keeps it flavorful while still feeling light and clean.

If you enjoy balanced comfort meals like my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup or Chicken Enchilada Soup, this one offers the same cozy feel with a refreshing twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup spinach or kale
• ½ cup cooked beans for protein

If you love wholesome soups like my Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder or Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup, you’ll adore this lighter version for your reset days.

How to Make Cabbage Detox Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Veggies
Add chopped cabbage, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Stir to coat in the oil and seasonings.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in diced tomatoes and broth. Add paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer and Soften
Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Add Greens and Lemon Juice
If using spinach, kale, or zucchini, stir them in during the last 5 minutes. Add lemon juice right before serving for a fresh, bright finish.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot, topped with chopped herbs or a sprinkle of pepper. Pair it with Christmas Bread Recipe or No-Knead Dutch Oven Bread for a wholesome, filling meal.

If you like simple soups that nourish and comfort, you’ll love my French Onion Ground Beef for heartier days.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Detox Soup

• Chop veggies evenly: It helps everything cook at the same time.
• Use fresh herbs: Parsley or dill adds a refreshing flavor boost.
• Add protein: Toss in beans, lentils, or shredded chicken for extra staying power.
• Freeze for later: This soup freezes beautifully — perfect for meal prep.

These easy tricks are the same ones I use in my Garten Shepherd’s Pie to keep flavors balanced and comforting.

How to Store and Reheat

Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezing: Cool completely, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warm.

Just like my Pioneer Woman Loaded Potato Soup, this soup tastes even better the next day when the flavors deepen.

Flavor Variations

1. Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
2. Ginger-Lemon Detox: Stir in fresh ginger and extra lemon juice for a cleansing flavor.
3. Hearty Version: Add quinoa or brown rice to make it more filling.
4. Green Boost: Blend part of the soup with spinach for extra nutrients.

If you love meals that make you feel good inside and out, this one’s as satisfying as my Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup — but a lot lighter.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Cabbage Detox Soup good for weight loss?
It’s low in calories and high in fiber, so it helps you stay full while supporting balanced eating.

2. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours.

3. Can I blend it?
You can partially blend it for a creamier texture, but it’s great chunky too.

4. Can I eat this every day?
Yes — it’s gentle on digestion and full of nutrients, perfect for a healthy week.

The Final Bite

This Cabbage Detox Soup is fresh, flavorful, and nourishing — the perfect soup for when you want to feel lighter without sacrificing taste. It’s easy to make, full of good-for-you veggies, and absolutely satisfying.

Enjoy it as a light lunch, or pair it with my Garlic Herb Dinner Rolls for a meal that feels both healthy and comforting.

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