Sauté the aromatics (5 minutes)
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and cabbage (5 minutes)
Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add the chopped cabbage and cook down slightly, 4–5 minutes.
Add broth and seasonings (2 minutes)
Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes.
Stir in salt, pepper, and thyme.
Simmer (20 minutes)
Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered until the cabbage is tender.
Add beans (optional) (5 minutes)
Stir in white beans and let heat through.
Finish & serve (3 minutes)
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.