Immune-Boosting Spicy Vegetable Soup
When you're feeling under the weather or just craving a cozy, nutrient-packed meal, nothing hits the spot like a warm bowl of homemade soup. This hearty vegetable soup is filled with vibrant flavors, immune-boosting ingredients, and a rich, comforting broth. It’s the perfect remedy for chilly days, busy nights, or whenever you need a little extra nourishment. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and totally customizable to suit your tastes!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Packed with nutrients – Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables. 
- Easy to make – Simple steps, minimal prep, and one pot! 
- Naturally immune-boosting – Garlic, mushrooms, and cabbage help support your body’s defenses. 
- Perfect for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day! 
- Vegan & gluten-free friendly – Adaptable for any dietary preference. 
Ingredients You’ll Need
Vegetables:
- 1 tbsp olive oil 
- 1 onion, diced 
- 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), chopped 
- 1 cup broccoli florets 
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded 
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced 
- 2 tomatoes, diced (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes) 
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 
- 1 carrot, sliced (optional, for natural sweetness) 
Broth & Seasoning:
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water 
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste) 
- ½ tsp black pepper 
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (for depth) 
- ½ tsp dried thyme or oregano 
- ½ tsp cumin (optional, for warmth) 
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for umami) 
- 1 bay leaf 
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice) 
- 1 tbsp Sirracha (optional, for spice) 
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped 
- Lemon or lime wedges 
- Grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast 
How to Make It
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. 
- Add the diced onion and bell peppers, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened. 
- Add the mushrooms and cook for another 2 minutes until they release moisture. 
- Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin (if using), cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. 
Build the Broth
- Add the diced tomatoes and their juices. Stir and let cook for 2 minutes. 
- Pour in the vegetable broth. Add cabbage, carrots, bay leaf, soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. 
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes. 
Add the Final Vegetables
- Add the broccoli florets and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright. 
Adjust & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon/lime. 
- Remove bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or Parmesan. 
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread – Nothing beats dunking fresh bread into a bowl of hot soup! 
- Over Rice or Quinoa – Adds a heartier touch for a more filling meal. 
- With Extra Protein – Add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or white beans for extra sustenance. 
- Make it Creamy – Blend part of the soup or stir in coconut milk for a luscious texture. 
This immune-boosting vegetable soup is the ultimate comfort food—warming, nourishing, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something wholesome, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a go, and let me know how you like it!
Tag me on social media @moondancewellnessco if you make it, and don’t forget to share this recipe with anyone who could use a cozy, healing bowl of soup.
