Lo-Cal Vegetable Soup
A light, flavorful vegetable soup loaded with fresh carrots, cabbage, and savory broth, perfect for a healthy, low-calorie meal suitable for all seasons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Simmer all together for about 1 hour until vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the pot. You can also substitute vegetable broth for the bouillon cubes and water for a richer base. If you want to increase the soup's protein content, add beans or lentils. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance the dish, making it a perfect companion to American recipes like Twisted Macaroni Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad, such as Strawberry-Spinach Salad With Poppy Seed Dressing, for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, include a sandwich or wrap on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply transfer to a pot and warm over medium heat, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Vegetable Soup contains roughly 115 calories, with 4g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (69% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 701mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato juice?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes; however, you'll need to blend them into a puree and adjust the water content to achieve the desired soup consistency. Fresh tomatoes add a vibrant flavor, but ensure to simmer longer to cook them down properly.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This vegetable soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What if I want to make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. You can also stir in a splash of hot sauce before serving. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a warming kick in this comforting dish.
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).