If you're looking for a cozy, flavorful way to enjoy your greens, this Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe is just what you need. It’s packed with fresh veggies, white beans, and smoky fire-roasted tomatoes, making it a perfect light yet satisfying meal.

The image shows a close-up of a clear vegetable soup filled with several layers of ingredients. At the base is a light golden broth with visible specks of black pepper. Floating throughout the liquid are bright orange chunks of carrot, soft red cherry tomatoes, and pale yellow-green wilted cabbage leaves with a slightly translucent texture. Interspersed among these are small white beans and bits of finely chopped green parsley sprinkled on top, adding fresh green accents. The soup appears hot and steamy with a slightly oily sheen on the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how this soup brings warmth and spice on chilly days without feeling heavy or greasy. It’s truly one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again when you crave something wholesome and comforting.

Packed with veggies: Cabbage, carrots, celery, and tomatoes create a nutrient-rich base for this soup.
Protein from white beans: Keeps things filling yet low-fat and heart-healthy.
Simple and quick: Ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals.
Customizable spice level: You control the heat with chili powder and red pepper flakes.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you start, I recommend grabbing fresh vegetables with vibrant colors for the best flavor. Using low-sodium broth lets you adjust seasoning easily, and fire-roasted tomatoes add a wonderful smoky depth.

Flat lay of a small pool of golden extra-virgin olive oil in a simple white ceramic bowl, one large yellow onion whole and unpeeled, two fresh bright orange carrots with green tops trimmed, two crisp celery stalks with leaves, a small white bowl of vibrant red chili powder, a small white bowl of coarse kosher salt, a small white bowl of freshly ground black pepper, a small white bowl filled with smooth white beans, two whole uncracked garlic bulbs, a small cluster of fresh green thyme sprigs, half a large green cabbage chopped into rough pieces, a small white bowl of chopped deep red fire-roasted tomatoes, a small white bowl filled with chopped bright green parsley leaves, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes displayed in a small white bowl—all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing veggies and adding healthy fats.
Yellow onion: Builds a sweet, savory foundation when softened.
Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and texture.
Celery: Brings a subtle aromatic crunch.
Garlic: Infuses the soup with warmth and depth.
Cabbage: The star vegetable offers bulk without heaviness.
Chili powder: Gives just the right spicy kick.
Kosher salt & black pepper: For balanced seasoning and enhanced flavors.
Fresh thyme leaves: Adds an earthy herbal note.
Fresh parsley: Brightens the soup and adds a fresh finish.
White beans: Provides plant-based protein and creaminess.
Fire-roasted tomatoes: Adds smoky, tangy flavor and richness.
Low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth: Creates a flavorful yet light soup base.
Water: To thin the broth to the perfect consistency.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for an extra layer of heat.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The beauty of this Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe is how versatile it is — you can easily tailor it to suit your taste buds or pantry staples. Whether you want to amp up the heat or add some extra veggies, it’s super forgiving and delicious every time.

Vegan Version: I swapped the chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth and never missed the meat-based flavor. It’s just as hearty and comforting!
Extra Heat: For those who love a serious kick, I add an extra pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce. It wakes up the soup beautifully.
Seasonal Veggies: Sometimes I toss in green beans or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrients — it’s a great way to use whatever’s fresh and on hand.
Lemony Brightness: A quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving lifts the flavors and adds a fresh zing that balances the spiciness.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe

A white pot contains three layers of vegetables: bright orange diced carrots form the bottom layer, next is a layer of chopped white onions, and on top is a layer of chopped light green celery. Sprinkled over the vegetables are white salt crystals and red powdered spices, with a wooden pepper mill seen above, releasing ground pepper. The pot sits on a black stove, and the background is a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Soften the vegetables and wake up the spices

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion, carrots, celery, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir often, cooking for about 8 minutes until the vegetables are tender and aromatic. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with a cozy, spicy scent, letting you know you’re off to a great start.

Step 2: Add beans, garlic, and thyme for depth

Next, stir in the drained and rinsed white beans, 2 cloves of finely chopped garlic, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves. Continue cooking for about 1 minute, just until the garlic releases its fragrance — be careful not to let it brown or burn. This step builds lovely layers of flavor that complement the spicy kick.

Step 3: Pour in the broth, then simmer away

Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth along with 2 cups of water. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This simmer forms the heart of the soup, melding flavors together beautifully before the veggies join the party.

Step 4: Add cabbage and fire-roasted tomatoes

Stir in the chopped half head of cabbage and a 15-ounce can of chopped fire-roasted tomatoes. Let the soup continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 6 minutes until the cabbage wilts perfectly tender but still holds just a bit of bite. This is when the soup really comes alive, thickening up with hearty vegetables and smoky tomato flavor.

Step 5: Finish with fresh herbs and spice

Once the cabbage is wilted, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and black pepper if needed. These last touches add brightness and just the right hint of heat to your bowl of comfort.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with additional fresh parsley for a lovely fresh finish. This soup is perfect served warm on its own or with a slice of crusty bread. It’s the kind of bowl that feels like a hug on a chilly day, while staying light and nourishing.

Top Tip

These tips will make your Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe even more delicious and hassle-free, helping you get the best flavors and textures every time.

Use Low-Sodium Broth: This lets you control the saltiness perfectly. I always start with low-sodium broth and adjust seasoning at the end so it’s just right.
Don’t Skip the Sauté: Cooking the onion, carrots, and celery until soft unlocks deep flavors in the soup. I found skipping this step makes the soup lose its cozy, hearty vibe.
Add Fresh Herbs Last: Stirring in fresh parsley and thyme at the end keeps their bright freshness intact. It really brightens up this comforting soup.
Be Mindful of Spice Levels: I learned to add crushed red pepper flakes gradually. Adding too much at first can overpower the lovely balance of spices, so taste as you go!

How to Serve Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a white pot filled with vegetable soup. The soup has many layers: at the bottom, a clear, light brown broth with small bubbles, floating big pieces of orange carrots and red tomatoes, along with pale green and white cabbage leaves. Fresh green parsley leaves are sprinkled all over the top. The soup looks warm and fresh, with the vegetables soft and colorful. The pot is placed on a surface with white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is a classic garnish that adds a pop of color and herbaceous brightness. For a creamy touch, try a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a swirl of sour cream to balance the spicy kick. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also lift the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread or garlic toast for dipping. A simple mixed green salad with a crisp vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes or a medley of steamed green beans and peas.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the soup cools to room temperature, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

This Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. You can also reheat in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through heating for even warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep this cabbage soup fully plant-based while maintaining its rich flavor.

How spicy is the soup?

The soup has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the chili powder and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer it spicier.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to include additional veggies like green beans, peas, or even zucchini to boost nutrition and variety. Just add them when you add the cabbage so they cook through properly.

Does this soup keep well?

Yes, it stores well refrigerated for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Spicy Cabbage Soup Recipe is one of my favorite go-to meals for chilly days when I want something warm, nourishing, and simple. It’s packed with wholesome veggies and a little kick of spice that makes every spoonful comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving for dinner tonight, it’s easy to make, delightful to eat, and leaves you feeling cozy inside. I hope you enjoy every bowl as much as I do!