Easy Sauteed Red Cabbage Recipe – Delicious & Healthy
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This vibrant and healthy Sauteed Red Cabbage is amazing! This simple side dish is not only visually appealing with its stunning purple hue but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for adding a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your meals, this sauteed red cabbage recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Sauteed Red Cabbage
- Burst of Flavor: This sauteed red cabbage is perfectly seasoned with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, creating a deliciously savory side dish that complements any meal.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute side dish needs.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Red cabbage is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making this dish not only tasty but also great for your health.
- Versatile Side Dish: Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, adding it to salads, or enjoying it on its own, this sauteed red cabbage is incredibly versatile.
- Budget-Friendly: Red cabbage is an affordable vegetable that yields a generous amount, making this recipe both economical and plentiful.
Ingredients For Sauteed Red Cabbage
- Red Cabbage – The star of the dish, providing a beautiful color and rich nutrients.
- Olive Oil – Used for pan-frying, adding a mild, fruity flavor. You can also use avocado oil or any vegetable oil.
- Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the cabbage.
- Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses the cabbage with a savory, aromatic taste.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Sauteed Red Cabbage
- Frying Pan – A large pan to accommodate the cabbage as it cooks and shrinks in volume.
- Knife – For slicing the cabbage into thin strips.
- Cutting Board – A stable surface for cutting the cabbage.
- Measuring Spoons – To measure out the oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
How To Make Sauteed Red Cabbage
- Slice the red cabbage into thin strips after washing and removing the outer leaves.
- Heat a frying pan on high and add olive oil.
- Add the sliced cabbage to the hot pan and reduce the heat to medium-high.
- Cover the pan with a lid to cook the cabbage more evenly and quickly, stirring every minute or two to prevent burning.
- After about 15-20 minutes, the cabbage should be tender.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Turn off the heat and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: Pair this sauteed red cabbage with grilled chicken, pork chops, or fish for a colorful and nutritious side.
- In Salads: Add it to your favorite salads for extra crunch and a vibrant hue.
- Tacos or Wraps: Use it as a filling for vegetarian tacos or wraps, adding a burst of flavor and color.
- Stir-Fries: Mix it into stir-fries for an additional veggie component.
- On Its Own: Enjoy it as a healthy snack or light lunch. Check out my healthy salads recipe collection for more ideas.
Tips For Success
- Use Fresh Cabbage: Ensure your red cabbage is fresh for the best flavor and texture. Older cabbage may be tougher and less flavorful.
- Slice Thinly: Thin slices cook more evenly and quickly, resulting in a tender yet crisp texture.
- Even Heating: Use a lid initially to help the cabbage cook more evenly. Removing the lid later helps reduce excess moisture and achieve a perfect texture.
- Stir Frequently: Stirring every minute or two prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the cabbage towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Everyone’s preference for salt, pepper, and garlic powder varies.
- Cooking Time: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your cabbage slices and the heat of your stovetop. Aim for a tender texture but avoid overcooking to maintain some crunch.
- Use Quality Oil: Choose a good quality oil like olive or avocado oil for better flavor and health benefits.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like paprika, cumin, or even a splash of vinegar for a different flavor profile.
- Watch the Heat: If the cabbage starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low to avoid burning.
- Nutritional Boost: Red cabbage is packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet for added health benefits.
Variations And Substitutions
- Different Oils: While olive oil is a great choice, you can also use avocado oil, coconut oil, or even butter for a richer flavor. Each oil adds a unique taste and can slightly alter the texture of the cabbage.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of cumin for an extra kick. These spices can enhance the flavor and give the dish a new twist.
- Add Vinegar: A splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar towards the end of cooking adds a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cabbage. This variation is especially great for those who enjoy a sweet and sour profile.
- Include Onions: Saute some sliced onions along with the cabbage for added sweetness and depth of flavor. Red onions or yellow onions work well for this variation.
- Garlic Variations: Instead of garlic powder, use fresh minced garlic for a more intense and aromatic flavor. Add the garlic towards the end of cooking to prevent it from burning.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added for a burst of freshness. Sprinkle chopped herbs over the cooked cabbage just before serving.
- Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the dish for a bright, citrusy note that elevates the flavor profile.
- Nuts and Seeds: Toasted almonds, sesame seeds, or sunflower seeds can be sprinkled on top for added crunch and nutrition.
- Mix with Other Veggies: Combine the red cabbage with other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans for a colorful and varied side dish.
- Sweet Touch: For a slightly sweet variation, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup during the cooking process. This pairs well with the natural sweetness of the cabbage.
Storage and Reheating
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover sauteed red cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked cabbage. Place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat the cabbage in a frying pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. This method helps retain the texture and flavor of the cabbage.
- Microwave: Place the cabbage in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Stir halfway to ensure even heating.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cabbage in an even layer on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use green cabbage instead of red cabbage?
Yes, you can substitute green cabbage for red cabbage in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, and the color won’t be as vibrant, but it will still be delicious and nutritious.
Is it necessary to use a lid while cooking the cabbage?
Using a lid helps the cabbage cook more evenly and quickly, especially at the beginning. However, if you don’t have a lid, you can still make this recipe. Just be sure to stir frequently and monitor the heat to avoid burning.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or onions can enhance the flavor and add more variety to the dish. Just slice them thinly and cook them together with the cabbage.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a spicy kick, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some freshly chopped chili peppers. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
What are some ways to serve sauteed red cabbage?
Sauteed red cabbage is versatile and can be served as a side dish with meats like chicken, pork, or fish. It can also be added to salads, tacos, or wraps, or enjoyed on its own as a healthy snack or light lunch.
How do I know when the cabbage is done cooking?
The cabbage is done when it is tender yet still has a slight crunch. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes, but you can adjust the cooking time based on your preference for tenderness.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can use fresh garlic for a more intense flavor. Mince a couple of garlic cloves and add them to the pan towards the end of cooking to prevent burning.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, sauteed red cabbage is a great dish for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated, making it a convenient option for quick meals throughout the week.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding different seasonings such as smoked paprika, cumin, or a splash of vinegar. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also add a burst of freshness.
Is sauteed red cabbage gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. Just make sure any additional seasonings or oils used are also gluten-free.
Make Your Life Healthier with More Cabbage Recipes
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Instant Pot Kielbasa Red Cabbage and Potatoes Recipe: A hearty and satisfying meal of kielbasa, red cabbage, and potatoes cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Instant Pot Red Cabbage – How to Cook Red Cabbage in the Instant Pot: Learn how to effortlessly cook tender and flavorful red cabbage in the Instant Pot with this simple guide.
Red Cabbage Stew Recipe: A comforting and wholesome red cabbage stew, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Healthy Red Cabbage Slaw with Carrots: A refreshing and crunchy slaw made with red cabbage and carrots, ideal for a light and healthy side dish.
Sauteed Red Cabbage
Recipe Video
Ingredients
- 1 head red cabbage washed and outer leaves removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil or any vegetable oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Frying pan
Instructions
- Slice the red cabbage into thin strips.
- Heat a frying pan on high and add olive oil.
- Add the sliced cabbage to the pan and reduce the heat to medium-high.
- Cover the pan with a lid to cook more evenly and faster, stirring every minute or two to prevent burning.
- After about 15-20 minutes, the cabbage should be tender.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Turn off the heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the amount of cabbage and the heat of your stovetop.
Nutrition
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