Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop the cabbage, onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic cloves.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly.
Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine.
Season the Soup: Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.