1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Shred or chop the cabbage into thin strips.
2. Sauté the Base
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Build the Soup:
- Add the bell pepper, green beans, zucchini, and cabbage to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir well.
4. Season the Soup:
- Add oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and red chili flakes (if using). Stir to distribute the spices evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
- Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
6. Add Final Touches:
- If using spinach or kale, stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted.
- Stir in lemon juice for a fresh, tangy finish.
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Pair with a side of whole-grain bread or crackers for a heartier meal.
Storage and Meal Prep
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- This soup freezes well! Freeze individual portions for quick, healthy meals.
Why This Soup Works
- Low in Calories: Packed with fiber and water-rich vegetables, this soup fills you up without overloading on calories.
- Boosts Digestion: Cabbage and other veggies support healthy digestion.
- Customizable: Add or swap vegetables to fit your taste or what’s in your fridge.
- Flavorful: Despite being a “fat-burning” soup, it doesn’t compromise on taste.
Enjoy this guilt-free soup as part of a balanced diet for a light yet satisfying meal!