Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the Pot: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to wilt down a bit.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (if using). Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Season the Soup: Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and let the soup simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Notes
For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using a hand blender or a regular blender. This is optional but can give the soup a creamier consistency while still keeping it healthy and low-calorie. If you prefer a chunky soup, you can skip this step.