I Can't Believe It's Just Cabbage

Transform your humble cabbage into a star dish with "I Can't Believe It's Just Cabbage"—a simple yet irresistibly flavorful recipe that will surprise your taste buds. Perfectly caramelized cabbage ribbons are infused with smoky paprika, a hint of garlic, and just the right amount of heat from red pepper flakes. A drizzle of apple cider vinegar brightens the dish, while fresh parsley and zesty lemon bring balance and vibrancy. This one-pan wonder is ready in just 45 minutes and works beautifully as a standout side or a light vegetarian main. Whether you're hosting or cooking a quick weeknight meal, this easy cabbage recipe is a delicious and healthy way to elevate leafy greens to the next level. Pair with your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own for a dish so good, you'll be saying, "I can't believe it's just cabbage!"

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 medium head Green cabbage
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 3 large Garlic cloves
• 0.5 teaspoons Red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
• 1.5 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon Lemon zest

Directions

Step 1

Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and slice each quarter into thin ribbons about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 2

Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.

Step 3

Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt completely.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 5

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cabbage ribbons to the skillet. Toss the cabbage in the garlic oil mixture to coat evenly. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the cabbage to start wilting.

Step 6

Sprinkle the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the cabbage. Toss to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Step 7

Continue cooking the cabbage for another 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and starts to caramelize. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.

Step 8

Once the cabbage is caramelized and golden, drizzle in the apple cider vinegar. Stir well to deglaze the pan and add a bright pop of flavor. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 9

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley and lemon zest over the cabbage. Toss to combine.

Step 10

Serve immediately as a side dish or main dish. Enjoy the surprising depth of flavor in this simple cabbage recipe!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(472.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	717.7

Total Fat 67.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 20.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 62mg	0%
Sodium 2437.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 29.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.2g	0%
Total Sugars 11.5g
Protein 6.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 202.7mg	0%
Iron 3.5mg	0%
Potassium 835.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 80.5%

Protein: 3.6%

Carbs: 15.9%