Name: Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup That Warms Your Soul and Satisfies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Ideal for sautéing aromatics; any neutral oil works if olive is unavailable.); 1 medium Onion (Provides a flavorful base; chopping finely ensures even cooking.); 3 cloves Garlic (Adds depth and aroma; slice thinly for a subtle infusion into the soup.); 4 cups Green Cabbage (Offers a hearty texture that softens perfectly; feel free to substitute with kale or spinach.); 1 can Cannellini Beans (Adds creaminess and protein; can be swapped with chickpeas or navy beans.); 4 cups Vegetable Broth (Forms the soup's flavorful base; consider using reduced sodium for a lighter option.); ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (Creates a rich, velvety texture; omit for a vegan version and replace with coconut milk.); 1 large Egg (Whisked to enrich the soup's texture.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Provides vibrant brightness and acidity; fresh is always best!); ¼ cup Dill (A fresh herb that elevates the soup's flavors.)

As the chill of autumn settles in, I often find myself reaching for a cozy pot of Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup. This delightful dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Combining tender cabbage and creamy cannellini beans, it’s a heartwarming comfort food that manages to feel both light and hearty. The bright zing of fresh lemon juice paired with aromatic dill gives it a refreshing twist that’s simply irresistible. Best of all, this soup can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or when you’re craving something homemade yet effortless. So, aren’t you curious to discover how easy it is to bring this nourishing bowl of goodness to your table?

Why is this soup a must-try?

Quick to Prepare: In just under 30 minutes, this soup turns into a delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Flavorful and Nourishing: The bright lemon juice and fragrant dill add zing, while the creamy cannellini beans provide solid protein.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients like kale for cabbage or use chickpeas instead of cannellini beans, ensuring that each bowl is tailored to your taste.
Healthy Comfort Food: With its vegetarian base, it’s packed with nutrients and can be made vegan by omitting cheese and egg, making it ideal for various diets.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether served for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this comfort food soup is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies!

Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup Ingredients

• To create your very own cozy bowl of Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup, gather these fresh ingredients!

For the Base

Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing aromatics; any neutral oil works if olive is unavailable.
Onion – Provides a flavorful base; chopping finely ensures even cooking.
Garlic – Adds depth and aroma; slice thinly for a subtle infusion into the soup.

For the Soup

Green Cabbage – Offers a hearty texture that softens perfectly; feel free to substitute with kale or spinach if you wish.
Cannellini Beans – Adds creaminess and protein; can be swapped with chickpeas or navy beans for variety.
Vegetable Broth – Forms the soup’s flavorful base; consider using reduced sodium for a lighter option.

For the Creamy Finish

Parmesan Cheese & Egg – Together create a rich, velvety texture; omit for a vegan version and replace with coconut milk.
Lemon Juice – Provides vibrant brightness and acidity; fresh is always best!
Dill – A fresh herb that elevates the soup’s flavors; if you only have dried, use half the amount for the best result.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 finely chopped onion and 3 thinly sliced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This aromatic base is key to enhancing the flavor of your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup.

Step 2: Soften Cabbage
Add 4 cups of chopped green cabbage, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of black pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the cabbage in the oil and spices. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to soften and wilt, creating a delightful foundation for your soup.

Step 3: Simmer
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add 1 can (15 ounces) of drained rinsed cannellini beans. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 8 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld beautifully in your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup.

Step 4: Prepare Egg Mixture
While the soup simmers, crack 1 egg into a bowl and whisk it together with ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and the juice of 1 lemon. Gradually add a ladleful of the hot broth into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This tempering process prevents the egg from curdling, ensuring a smooth finish for your soup.

Step 5: Finish Soup
Remove the pot from heat and gently stir the tempered egg mixture back into the soup along with ¼ cup of fresh chopped dill. This step adds a lovely creaminess and fresh flavor to the Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup. Season with salt to taste, mixing everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the warm Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with additional fresh dill and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting dish that warms both the heart and the belly.

What to Serve with Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup

Enjoying a warm bowl of this delicious soup opens up a world of pairing possibilities to enhance your meal!

Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping, this crunchy bread complements the creamy texture of the soup while also adding a delightful contrast.
Garlic Toast: A flavorful side that brings in a zesty kick, the buttery, garlicky notes harmonize beautifully with the tang of lemon.
Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: Fresh greens drizzled with a light, zesty dressing will balance the hearty soup, offering refreshing crunch and brightness.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts provide a sweet, caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with the soup’s savory depth.
Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed side filled with colorful veggies, this light dish boosts nutritional value and offers fun texture alongside the soup.
Herb-Infused Rice: Fragrant rice seasoned with dill or parsley can uplift the meal, enhancing the herbaceous flavors already present in the soup.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages cool down the palate and offer a citrus twist that complements the soup’s bright lemon notes.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, this comforting favorite brings a sweet finish, contrasting with the savory soup and creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup Variations

Feel free to explore different adaptations of this delightful soup for a personalized touch that tickles your taste buds!

Kale or Spinach: Substitute cabbage with kale or spinach for a different texture that’s equally nourishing. Just remember, greens like kale add a heartier bite!
Chickpeas: Replace cannellini beans with chickpeas or Great Northern beans for a unique flavor twist, soaking this dish in fresh legume goodness.
Spice It Up: For those who like it hot, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to give your soup a delightful kick. Each spoonful will be a thrilling experience!
Vegan Delight: Skip the egg and cheese for a vegan version, and jazz it up with creamy coconut milk for a luscious finish that everyone will love. A warm hug in a bowl!
Herbal Variations: Have some fresh parsley or basil? Feel free to substitute or mix in these vibrant herbs in place of dill to explore new flavor dimensions in your soup.
Zesty Lemon Boost: If you adore citrus, brighten the flavor profile even more by adding some lemon zest along with the juice. It will brighten your soup beautifully!
Mushroom Essence: Enhance your soup with the deep, earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms. Just toss them in when you’re softening the cabbage; they’ll add another level of comfort.

As you indulge in variations, don’t forget to serve your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup alongside a slice of crusty bread, or pair it with a fresh green salad topped with a lemon vinaigrette for a complete meal. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup is a wonderful option for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onions, garlic, and cabbage up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, the cannellini beans can be rinsed and prepared ahead of time, allowing for a quicker cooking process later. Simply refrigerate the prepped ingredients and, when you are ready to serve, follow the soup-making steps up to the point of adding the egg mixture. This way, the soup will be just as delicious and creamy as if made fresh! To maintain the soup’s quality, avoid adding the egg and cheese mixture until right before serving to prevent curdling.

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove to preserve its creamy texture.

Freezer: Avoid freezing due to the egg in the soup. Instead, enjoy it fresh to ensure the best taste and consistency.

Reheating: When reheating leftovers, do so slowly. Heat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, taking care not to boil.

Serving Tip: Customize your reheated soup by adding a splash of fresh lemon juice or extra dill to enhance flavors before serving.

Expert Tips for Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup

Tempering Eggs: Always temper the egg mixture by gradually adding hot broth while whisking. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth consistency in your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup.
Choosing Fresh Herbs: For a vibrant flavor, opt for fresh dill over dried. If using dried dill, reduce the quantity by half to avoid overpowering the soup.
Boosting Nutrition: Enhance the nutritious profile of the soup by adding a handful of spinach or kale during cooking, making it even heartier.
Storage Wisely: Avoid freezing your soup due to the egg content; instead, store it in the fridge for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.
Versatile Beans: Feel free to switch out cannellini beans for chickpeas or navy beans; each offers a unique flavor and texture, personalizing your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup.

Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup Recipe FAQs

How should I select my cabbage for this soup?
Absolutely! Look for a green cabbage that’s firm and heavy for its size. Avoid any heads with dark spots or soft spots, as that can indicate spoilage. The outer leaves should be a vibrant green and crisp to the touch, ensuring the freshest flavor for your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup.

Can I store leftover Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup?
Yes, you can! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to maintain the creamy texture, stirring occasionally until warmed through but avoiding boiling.

Is it possible to freeze Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup?
It’s best to avoid freezing this soup due to the egg content. Freezing can result in a strange texture once thawed. Instead, enjoy your soup fresh, and you’ll savor the delightful flavors as intended!

What if my soup seems too thick?
No problem! If you find your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add some vegetable broth or water, a little at a time, while stirring until you reach the desired consistency. This will keep the flavors intact while adjusting the texture.

Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! This Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the egg and Parmesan cheese. You can substitute coconut milk for a creamy finish if desired. Always check labels for allergens if serving to guests with specific dietary needs.

How can I ensure my soup has the best flavor?
Using fresh herbs is key! I recommend using fresh dill for a brighter flavor. If using dried dill, make sure to use half the amount. Additionally, a splash of fresh lemon juice right before serving can elevate flavors wonderfully!