🥣 Mediterranean-Style Detox Southwest Soup

This vibrant Detox Southwest Soup is light, hearty, and packed with fiber-rich vegetables, plant protein, and warming spices. While no single soup causes weight loss on its own, incorporating nourishing, low-calorie, high-fiber meals like this into a balanced Mediterranean-style eating plan can support healthy weight management.

The best part? It truly takes about 10 minutes to prep — then the pot does the rest!

🌿 Why This Fits a Mediterranean Lifestyle

✔ Plant-forward ingredients
✔ Olive oil instead of processed fats
✔ Beans for fiber and protein
✔ Naturally gluten-free
✔ Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory spices

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup shredded cabbage
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon oregano
Salt & black pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Quick Prep (10 Minutes)

Chop all vegetables and rinse beans.

2️⃣ Sauté Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.

3️⃣ Build the Soup

Add bell pepper, zucchini, cabbage, tomatoes, black beans, corn, spices, and broth.

4️⃣ Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes.

5️⃣ Finish

Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning.
Top with fresh cilantro before serving.

🍽 Serving Ideas

With sliced avocado on top
With a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt
Alongside a small whole-grain tortilla
Over a scoop of quinoa for extra protein

🥗 Nutritional Highlights

High in fiber (keeps you full longer)
Rich in plant protein
Low in saturated fat
Packed with vitamin C & antioxidants
Naturally low-calorie but satisfying

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can this soup really help with weight loss?

This soup is low in calories and high in fiber, which can support fullness and portion control. Sustainable weight loss comes from overall dietary patterns and lifestyle habits.

Q2: Can I add chicken?

Yes! Add shredded grilled chicken for extra protein.

Q3: Is it spicy?

Mild to medium. Adjust chili powder to your preference.

Q4: Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes. Cook on low for 4–5 hours.

Q5: How long does it last?

Fridge: 4–5 days
Freezer: Up to 3 months

Q6: Can I make it low-carb?

Skip the corn and beans and add more zucchini or spinach.