Mediterranean Diet Classic Cabbage Rolls

Infused with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, these Mediterranean Diet Classic Cabbage Rolls are a wholesome twist on a timeless comfort food. Tender green cabbage leaves are wrapped around a delicious mixture of lean ground beef or turkey, nutty brown rice, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint, creating a dish that’s both hearty and balanced. A rich tomato sauce, accented with lemon juice and a hint of cinnamon, ties everything together with a bright, subtly spiced flavor profile. Slow-baked to perfection in a nourishing broth, these cabbage rolls are not only bursting with nutrients but also embody the health-conscious principles of the Mediterranean diet. Perfect for make-ahead meals or a cozy dinner, this dish is an inviting way to enjoy a classic with a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:75 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 large green cabbage
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 0.5 pound lean ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 0.25 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1.5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth

Directions

Step 1

Core the cabbage and carefully pull away about 12-14 outer leaves. In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the cabbage leaves for about 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside to cool.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spatula, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the cooked brown rice, parsley, mint, salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly and remove from heat.

Step 5

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 6

In a mixing bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, lemon juice, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir well to create the sauce.

Step 7

Spread about 1/4 cup of the sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 8

Take a cabbage leaf, cut out the thick part of the stem if necessary, and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat and rice mixture at the center. Roll the leaf, tucking in the sides as you go, like an envelope. Place it seam side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Step 9

Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are well covered.

Step 10

Pour the vegetable or chicken broth around the rolls in the pan.

Step 11

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1641.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1338.9

Total Fat 70.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 21.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.4g
Cholesterol 181.4mg	0%
Sodium 3239.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 113.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 22.1g	0%
Total Sugars 29.5g
Protein 77.1g	0%

Vitamin D 15.9IU	0%
Calcium 515.1mg	0%
Iron 18.1mg	0%
Potassium 3465.8mg	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: 45.5%

Protein: 22.0%

Carbs: 32.5%