This bright and refreshing Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup is full of flavor! Cabbage meets zesty lemon and fresh dill for a tasty and healthy mix. Perfect when you want something light yet nourishing!
Honestly, this soup makes my taste buds dance! I love sipping on it while daydreaming about sunny days. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just chop, simmer, and enjoy! 🌿🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great choice for sautéing, but you can also use avocado oil or butter for a different flavor. I often switch it up based on what I have on hand!
Cabbage: Green cabbage is perfect here, but you could use Napa cabbage for a slightly different texture. You can even mix in some kale for added nutrients!
White Beans: Cannellini are creamy and delicious, but chickpeas or even lentils can work in their place if you’re looking for a variation. Just consider cooking times for lentils!
Dill: Fresh dill adds a bright flavor, but you can use dried dill in a pinch. If you’re not a fan of dill, try parsley or basil for a new twist.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the soup, but lime juice could be a fun substitute if you have it available. Just adjust to taste!
How Do I Ensure My Cabbage is Perfectly Tender?
Getting the cabbage just right is key for this soup. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the cabbage thinly so it cooks evenly and quickly.
- Sauté it until it begins to wilt, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to help it along.
- Allow the cabbage to simmer in broth for 15-20 minutes. This not only softens the cabbage but also allows its flavor to meld with the soup.
Remember, patience is crucial! Stir and taste along the way to achieve your desired texture.
Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick but wholesome meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. The aroma will make your kitchen smell wonderful!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently until it’s fragrant. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your soup!
3. Cook the Cabbage:
Add the sliced cabbage to the pot. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to wilt. It’s okay if it looks a bit voluminous; it will shrink down as it cooks.
4. Simmer with Broth:
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cook the soup for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. This is where all the flavors come together!
5. Incorporate the Beans:
Next, stir in the rinsed white beans, dried or fresh dill, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the beans to warm up and blend in with the flavors.
6. Add Lemon Juice and Season:
Remove the pot from the heat, then stir in the lemon juice. It’s time to taste your soup! Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice if desired for extra zing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, ladle the warm soup into bowls. Garnish with extra fresh dill and a little sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if you like. Enjoy your refreshing, light, and nourishing Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup!
This soup is not only easy to make but also a lovely, healthy meal that will lift your spirits. Enjoy every bowlful! 🌼🥣
Can I Use Other Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is recommended for its flavor and texture, you can also use Napa cabbage or Savoy cabbage. Each variety will give a slightly different taste and texture, so feel free to experiment!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup makes a great light meal on its own, but you can pair it with crusty bread, a light salad, or a grain like quinoa for a heartier meal. Adding a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp could also complement it nicely!
Can I Make this Soup Vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already vegan if you use vegetable broth. Just make sure to choose a vegan-friendly bread if you plan to serve it on the side. Enjoy your plant-based deliciousness!