Nourishing Vegetable “Treasure” Soup

537527363 122276851202011106 3405705533978189348 n Mediterranean Diet, Recipe

This simple, wholesome soup is a powerhouse of nutrients and fiber, which can help provide a steady release of energy and support stable blood sugar levels. It’s a true comfort in a bowl, perfect for nourishing your body any time of day.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25-30 minutes | Total Time: 40-45 minutes | Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced (peeled if desired)
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
  • ½ small cabbage, shredded or thinly sliced
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until they begin to soften.
  2. Add Hard Vegetables: Add the diced potatoes, carrot, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Simmer: Pour in the broth and add the minced garlic, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Add Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the pot. Cover and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
  5. Season: Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup generously with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Why This Soup is a “Treasure” & Tips

  • Blood Sugar Support: The combination of non-starchy vegetables (cabbage, celery, pepper) and high-fiber starchy vegetables (potatoes, carrots) provides complex carbohydrates that are digested slowly, helping to prevent rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar.
  • Customize It: This soup is incredibly versatile.
    • Add Protein: Stir in a can of rinsed white beans or lentils with the cabbage for added plant-based protein and fiber.
    • Add Greens: Throw in a handful of spinach or kale in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  • Flavor Boost: For a richer flavor, try sautéing the vegetables in a tablespoon of tomato paste for a minute before adding the broth.
  • Make it a Puree (Optional): For an even more stomach-soothing version, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
  • Storage: This soup tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Thank you so much for your message! I’m truly honored that you trust me with your treasured recipes. It’s a joy to help you create meals that make you feel good. I’ll always be here with more. ❤️

Enjoy your nourishing and comforting bowl of soup!