Easy Roasted Cabbage

      Roasting cabbage is a game-changer! While we’ve always enjoyed it sautéed, fried, or transformed into kimchi, roasting has quickly become a favorite. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the time. The high heat brings out its natural sweetness, turning it golden, tender, and irresistibly flavorful.

      Our go-to roasted cabbage recipe is simple, just oil, salt, and pepper, but the possibilities are endless. Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, spice blends, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head cabbage, about 1 ½ pounds
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to about 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or a parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Cabbage: Slice the cabbage into four wedges and remove the core. Cut each wedge into thin strips, about ½ inch thick.
3. Season and Spread: Place the cabbage strips onto the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with pepper and salt, and toss to coat evenly. Spread into a single layer for even roasting.
4. Roast to Perfection: Roast undisturbed for about 15 minutes until the edges start to brown. Stir the cabbage, spread it out again, and continue roasting for another 5 to 10 minutes until it reaches your desired level of caramelization.
5. Finish and Serve: Drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright, tangy finish.

How to Roast Cabbage:

      There are many ways to roast cabbage, whether in thick steaks, wedges, or thin ribbons, but our favorite method is slicing it into delicate strips. Once roasted, the cabbage transforms into beautifully caramelized ribbons that are both tender and slightly crispy.

To prepare, start by peeling away any damaged outer leaves, then quarter the cabbage to expose the core. Since the core is tough, we remove it before slicing each quarter into ½-inch thick strips. This method creates pasta-like ribbons that roast evenly and develop incredible texture.

The process is incredibly simple: toss the sliced cabbage with oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in a hot oven until it becomes golden brown, tender, and naturally sweet. The result? A beautifully roasted side dish that’s easy, delicious, and versatile!

Expert Tips:

• Keep the Core Intact: Don’t remove the core! It softens beautifully when roasted and helps keep the cabbage wedges from falling apart.
• Expect Some Separation: When lifting the cabbage slices from the pan, they might break apart a bit, this is completely normal. They’ll still look great on the plate!
• Customize the Heat Level: Love spice? Go heavy on the red pepper flakes (like I do!). Prefer it mild? Simply leave them out, this recipe works either way.

What to Serve with Roasted Cabbage:

      Roasted cabbage is a fantastic side dish that compliments a variety of proteins and other sides. Its caramelized, slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with steak, juicy pork chops, tender chicken breasts, and shrimp marinated in garlic and ginger.

For a well-rounded meal, serve it alongside roasted carrots, crispy roasted potatoes (they roast perfectly at the same temperature), sautéed green beans, or a refreshing simple salad. No matter how you enjoy it, roasted cabbage is an easy and delicious way to elevate any meal!

Variations:

• Boost the Flavor: Enhance the seasoning by adding ½ teaspoon of onion powder and dried thyme, thyme adds a subtle earthy note that pairs beautifully with roasted cabbage.
• Butter Alternative: Instead of using olive oil, brush the cabbage with melted butter for a richer, more indulgent taste.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the cabbage 10 minutes before it’s done roasting. This creates a crispy, savory topping, my husband’s personal favorite!
• Try Red Cabbage: Swap green cabbage for red cabbage for a vibrant twist. The flavor remains just as delicious, with a slightly different texture and sweetness.

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store roasted cabbage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking.
• Enjoy Cold: Shred leftovers into a salad or snack on them straight from the fridge, like an easy, flavorful antipasti!

Notes

• Cabbage Texture: When lifting the roasted cabbage slices from the pan, they may break apart slightly, this is completely normal! Most of the pieces will still hold their shape.
• Spice Level: I personally enjoy this dish with a generous amount of red pepper, but if you prefer a milder version, feel free to leave it out.
• Storage & Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power to maintain texture.
• Serving Cold: Roasted cabbage is also delicious cold! Try shredding it into a salad or enjoying it as a quick snack, similar to antipasti.

FAQs About Roasted Cabbage:

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

• Absolutely! Red cabbage works just as well as green cabbage. The roasting process brings out its natural sweetness and deepens the color, making it equally delicious.

How long will the roasted cabbage stay fresh?

• Roasted cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For the best flavor, consume it within this time frame.

Can I make roasted cabbage ahead of time?

• Yes! You can roast the cabbage ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal.

What other spices can I use to season roasted cabbage?

• You can experiment with onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, or even smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor. Feel free to add your favorite spices to suit your taste.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

• Yes, you can brush the cabbage wedges with melted butter instead of spraying them with olive oil. This adds a rich flavor that many enjoy.

What should I do if the cabbage falls apart when I lift it from the pan?

• Don’t worry! It’s completely normal for the cabbage to break apart a bit when lifting it. The cabbage will still maintain most of its shape, and it’s part of the natural texture when roasted.

Can I add cheese to the roasted cabbage?

• Yes! Try sprinkling some grated Parmesan on the cabbage during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a savory touch.

How do I make the cabbage spicier?

• If you like spicy food, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

Can I freeze roasted cabbage?

• Yes, you can freeze roasted cabbage for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or oven.

What can I serve with roasted cabbage?

• Roasted cabbage pairs wonderfully with steak, pork chops, chicken, or shrimp. It also makes a great side dish alongside roasted potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.