Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Zero Points Vegetable Medley Soup?
It is a nutritious and filling soup made with fresh and frozen vegetables, designed to be zero points for Weight Watchers members.
How many Weight Watchers points are in this soup?
This soup is crafted to be completely zero points for Weight Watchers members.
Is this vegetable medley soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses vegetable stock and plant-based ingredients.
How many calories are in a serving of this soup?
This soup contains approximately 11 calories per serving.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients include napa cabbage, frozen mixed vegetables, fire-roasted tomatoes, vegetable stock, onions, celery, and mushrooms.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute the 2 lbs of frozen mixed vegetables with an equivalent amount of fresh vegetables if preferred.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The soup should be brought to a gentle simmer and cooked for 45 minutes.
What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 8 cups of sliced and chopped napa cabbage.
Why is sugar or Splenda added to the recipe?
A tablespoon of sugar or Splenda is added at the end to balance the flavors and reduce residual acidity from the tomatoes.
Can I make this soup oil-free?
Yes, you can omit the 2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil and sautรฉ the vegetables in a small amount of water or vegetable broth to reduce fat further.
How much fat is in this soup?
There is only 0.5 grams of fat per serving.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe recommends 29 ounces of canned fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky depth of flavor.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well and is ideal for meal prep.
What spices are used in this vegetable soup?
The soup is seasoned with bay leaves, thyme, oregano, and allspice.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, though you should always check your vegetable stock label.
How much garlic is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of minced garlic.
Can I add protein to this soup?
Yes, you can add beans, tofu, or lean meats, though this may change the Weight Watchers point value.
What is the purpose of the vinegar?
One tablespoon of vinegar is added at the end to brighten the flavors and balance the soup.
Should I remove the bay leaves?
Yes, ensure you remove the 3 bay leaves before serving the soup.
How long do I sautรฉ the onions and cabbage?
Sautรฉ the onions, celery, garlic, and cabbage for 10-15 minutes until lightly caramelized.
How many cups of vegetable stock are required?
The recipe requires 8 cups of vegetable stock.
Is the soup spicy?
No, it is a savory soup, though you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1 teaspoon of either fresh or dried thyme.
How much fiber does this soup have?
While not explicitly calculated in the data, the high volume of napa cabbage and mixed vegetables provides a good source of dietary fiber.
What is the serving size for the nutritional facts provided?
The specific serving size is not listed, but the recipe is designed to be low-calorie and high-volume.
How many carbs are in a serving?
There are 1.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can sautรฉ the initial vegetables and then transfer everything to a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
Does this soup contain cholesterol?
Based on the plant-based ingredients, this soup is cholesterol-free.
What makes this soup 'hearty'?
The combination of mushrooms, cabbage, and a variety of mixed vegetables provides a thick, satisfying texture.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.