Diet Soup
A light and nourishing vegetable soup perfect for those watching their calorie intake. Packed with cabbage, celery, and tomatoes, it offers a savory flavor with a hearty vegetable base. Ideal for cleansing diets or comforting meals, suitable for vegetarians and anyone seeking a healthy option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the cabbage, celery, onions, and green peppers.
- In a large pot, combine all chopped vegetables, canned tomatoes, and bouillon cubes.
- Simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes.
- Stir occasionally and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a boost of flavor, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or basil. If you're looking for a heartier version, you can add diced potatoes or carrots. For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef or chicken bouillon cubes with vegetable bouillon. This soup can also be customized with other vegetables such as zucchini or green beans based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the diet soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. It pairs wonderfully with whole grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a more filling option, consider serving it alongside Herbed Beef Kabobs for a satisfying dinner that balances flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover diet soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in a covered bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Diet Soup contains roughly 665 calories, with 16g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (316% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 485mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add protein to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, ground turkey, or even beans for extra protein. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is heated through without overcooking the vegetables.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and flavors develop even more after a day. Just portion it out into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).