As I stood by the stove, the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafted through my kitchen, momentarily transporting me to a cozy Mediterranean bistro. This Creamy Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup, brimming with hearty cannellini beans and tender cabbage, is my go-to recipe for those days when comfort food feels essential yet light. With a pop of lemon brightness and the fragrant touch of fresh dill, it’s a bowl of warmth and wellness that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for vegan diets, making it a versatile dish for everyone at the table. Curious how to bring this delightful hug-in-a-bowl into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Comforting and Hearty: Each bowl of this Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup envelops you with warmth, thanks to the tender cabbage and creamy cannellini beans.
Easy to Make: With just one pot and under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a quick and easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re vegan or vegetarian, this recipe adapts effortlessly—swap in coconut milk for creaminess or replace beans for your favorite variety.
Bright and Fresh: The zesty lemon and aromatic dill combine for a refreshing note that lifts your spirits while satisfying hunger.
Perfect Pairings: Serve it alongside a crusty baguette or a light salad, like this Cucumber Dill Salad, for a complete dining experience.
Ready to indulge in this comforting bowl of joy? Let’s get cooking!
Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to embrace the vibrant flavors!
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing aromatics, but avocado oil or butter works too.
- Yellow Onion – Offers a flavorful base; shallots can substitute for a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic – Brings depth and aroma; fresh is best, though powdered can suffice.
- Green Cabbage – Hearty and tender when cooked; try kale or spinach for a new twist.
- Dried Oregano – Adds earthy notes; Italian seasoning can be a quick alternative.
- Ground Pepper – Essential for seasoning and adding warmth.
- Vegetable Broth – The heartbeat of the soup; chicken broth works too if desired.
For the Creaminess
- Cannellini Beans – Creamy, protein-packed goodness; substitute with chickpeas or navy beans for variety.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds richness; use nutritional yeast for a vegan option or omit altogether.
- Egg – Gives a silky texture when tempered; replace with cornstarch slurry or leave out for vegan.
For the Brightness
- Lemon Juice – Brightens every bite; fresh lemon juice is preferred, but bottled can work in a pinch.
- Fresh Dill – Infuses herbal notes; dried dill can substitute if fresh isn’t available, but use half.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
Now, you’re all set to create a delightful and nourishing Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup that warms your soul perfectly!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped yellow onion and 3 sliced garlic cloves, sautéing for about 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, creating a flavorful base for your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup.
Step 2: Add Cabbage and Seasoning
Next, stir in 4 cups of chopped green cabbage along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and freshly ground pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring frequently until the cabbage starts to soften but still retains a bit of crunch. This step builds the soup’s character while enhancing its vibrant color.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Beans
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add 1 can of rinsed cannellini beans. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 8 minutes, allowing the cabbage to become tender and flavors to meld together beautifully in your comforting Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, the juice from 1 lemon, and 1 egg. To temper the egg, gradually whisk in 1 cup of the hot broth from the soup mixture, ensuring a smooth blend. This mixture will lend a rich, silken texture to your soup without curdling.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Slowly stir the creamy cheese and egg mixture back into the soup, maintaining a low heat. This process will enrich the soup’s consistency, introducing a delightful creaminess. Keep stirring gently until everything is well incorporated, ensuring all the components of the Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup come together harmoniously.
Step 6: Final Touches
Add ¼ cup of chopped fresh dill and season with salt, adjusting to your taste. Stir gently to combine all elements, allowing the fresh dill to infuse its aromatic flavor into the soup. The vibrant greens will signal that your spoonfuls will burst with herbs and heartiness.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of black pepper and a few extra dill sprigs for an appealing presentation. Serve the soup hot, ideally with crusty bread or a light salad for a comforting and satisfying meal.
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup
Fridge: Store your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup in a sealed container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat to maintain its creamy texture without boiling.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.
Thawing: To enjoy the soup again, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tips: This soup can be made ahead of time, but add the egg mixture just before serving to keep its richness intact and prevent separation.
What to Serve with Creamy Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that complement the warmth of this comforting bowl.
- Crusty Baguette: The perfect tool for dipping into the velvety soup, this classic bread offers a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy richness.
- Garlic Toast: Crispy and fragrant, garlic toast adds a nice texture and flavor contrast, enhancing the overall experience of this comforting dish.
- Fresh Cucumber Dill Salad: This bright, refreshing salad adds a crisp element with zesty notes, echoing the herbs in the soup wonderfully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies brings depth and adds essential vitamins to your meal, balance the warm soup with savory sweetness.
- Rainbow Quinoa Salad: With nutty flavors and colorful textures, this filling salad creates a balanced meal that feels satisfying without overwhelming the senses.
- Lemon-Infused Iced Tea: A cold beverage with a hint of citrus echoes the lemony notes in the soup, keeping your palate refreshed and the experience cohesive.
- Zesty Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate with its bright, tangy sweetness, providing a refreshing end to a heartwarming meal.
These pairings create the perfect symphony of flavors, making your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup a centerpiece of joy and comfort at your dining table.
Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish; it’s all about personalizing it to your taste!
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Chickpea Swap: Use chickpeas instead of cannellini beans for a heartier texture and an extra protein boost. They complement the soup beautifully and provide a delightful chewiness.
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Vegan Transformation: Omit the egg and Parmesan and add coconut milk for a creamy vegan alternative. This twist keeps the soup lush while making it suitable for plant-based diets.
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Heat It Up: For spice lovers, add crushed red pepper flakes to the broth. This simple step adds a warm kick that contrasts wonderfully with the lemony brightness.
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Green Leafy Upgrade: Instead of cabbage, try using kale or spinach for a change in texture. These greens offer a different flavor profile, enriching the soup’s nutritional value.
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Zesty Lemon Boost: Increase the lemon juice for an extra zesty punch. It brightens the soup and enhances the fresh dill, making each spoonful refreshingly tasty.
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Herb Variation: If fresh dill isn’t available, use a mix of fresh parsley and thyme instead. While the flavor will be slightly different, it’ll still contribute aromatic qualities that elevate the dish.
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Savory Broth Swap: Replace vegetable broth with homemade chicken broth for a richer flavor. The added depth of homemade broth makes this soup especially comforting.
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Bean Variety: Experiment with navy beans for a creamier texture. This subtle change can offer a delightful twist to the traditional cannellini beans, catering to those who may prefer a different flavor profile.
By exploring these variations, you’re sure to keep mealtime exciting and make this Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup your own delightful signature dish! If you love a tangy dessert to celebrate your meal, consider making some Lemon Truffles Zesty for a sweet finish!
Make Ahead Options
This Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup is an excellent recipe for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence! You can chop the vegetables and prepare the aromatic base up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The cannellini beans can also be rinsed and readied ahead, making the final assembly a breeze. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, simply sauté the aromatics, add the prepped veggies and broth, and finish with the creamy egg mixture and dill just before serving to maintain that silky texture. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal on the table with minimal effort, ready to warm your soul!
Expert Tips for Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup
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Slice Garlic Thinly: Make sure to slice garlic into thin pieces for optimal melting into the soup, creating a deeper flavor profile.
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Temper the Egg Mixture: Don’t skip this step! Gradually whisk in hot broth to the egg mixture to prevent curdling when mixing it back into the soup.
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Texture Variations: For more texture, consider using an immersion blender to partially blend the soup; this gives a delightful creaminess while still maintaining some chunks.
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Herb Freshness: Use fresh dill for the brightest flavor in your Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup. If you’re using dried, remember to reduce the amount to maintain balance.
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Consider Bean Swaps: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different beans! Chickpeas or navy beans add a unique twist and heartiness to your dish.
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Perfect Pairings: Serve with crusty bread or a light salad to round out your meal beautifully, creating an inviting dining experience for your loved ones.
Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, look for green cabbage that has firm, tightly packed leaves and no dark spots. For the onions, pick ones that feel heavy for their size and have shiny, unblemished skins. Fresh garlic should be plump and just slightly firm. For optimal flavor, use fresh lemons with bright yellow skins that yield slightly to pressure, indicating juiciness.
How should I store leftover Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup?
To keep your soup fresh, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s essential to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can alter the texture. When reheating, gentle low heat is key—this allows the creamy consistency to return without boiling and breaking the emulsion.
Can I freeze Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your soup! Pour cooled soup into airtight containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion during freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it looks too thick.
What if my soup is too thick after cooking?
Very commonly, soup can thicken as it sits. If yours ends up thicker than you’d like, adjust it by stirring in additional vegetable broth or water until the desired consistency is reached. Bring it to a gentle simmer to heat through while stirring to blend, which should restore that creamy texture wonderfully.
Is this soup safe for people with allergies?
This recipe is primarily vegetarian and can be adapted for vegan diets. However, it does contain dairy (Parmesan cheese and egg). For those with dairy allergies, nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for the cheese, or you can simply exclude it entirely. Always check all ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially with broth and any canned items.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, leave out the egg and Parmesan cheese. A wonderful alternative for creaminess is to add coconut milk, which will give it that rich texture without any animal products. Simply stir it in after blending the soup, allowing the natural sweetness of the coconut to balance beautifully with the lemon.
Lemon Dill Cabbage Soup that Warms Your Soul Perfectly
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped yellow onion and 3 sliced garlic cloves, sautéing for about 4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in 4 cups of chopped green cabbage, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and freshly ground pepper. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently until the cabbage starts to soften.
- Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add 1 can of rinsed cannellini beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover and cook for 8 minutes.
- Whisk together ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, the juice from 1 lemon, and 1 egg in a bowl. Temper the egg by whisking in 1 cup of hot broth gradually.
- Slowly stir the creamy mixture back into the soup over low heat, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Add ¼ cup of chopped fresh dill and season with salt to taste. Stir gently to combine.
- Ladle soup into bowls, garnishing with black pepper and extra dill sprigs. Serve hot with crusty bread.
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