Are you looking for some delicious and nutritious ways to incorporate red cabbage into your diet? With its rich, earthy flavor and impressive nutrient profile, this vibrant vegetable is a great addition to many meals. From savory stir-fries to tangy slaws, and from hearty stews to refreshing salads, there are countless ways to prepare red cabbage. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 delicious healthy red cabbage recipes that you’re sure to love. From classic pairings like apples and balsamic glaze, to international flavors like ginger and tahini dressing, we’ve got something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for some new ideas for your meal prep routine, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with this amazing ingredient.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes!
Healthy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw
This refreshing slaw combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of red cabbage, perfect for a light and healthy side dish or topping for your favorite sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well), peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and diced apples.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture, tossing until everything is coated evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Roasted Red Cabbage with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Red Cabbage with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this simple yet impressive side dish that combines the natural sweetness of red cabbage with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of red cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cabbage wedges with olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cabbage mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted cabbage and toss to coat.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Red Cabbage Stir-Fry with Tofu
This vibrant and nutritious stir-fry is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, featuring tender red cabbage and crispy tofu. A great option for a quick and healthy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, then sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add red cabbage to the pan and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes or until tender.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce and rice vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Onions
Sweet and savory, this braised red cabbage dish is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. The apples add a pop of sweetness, while the onions bring a depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re translucent and slightly caramelized (about 10 minutes).
3. Add the chopped apples and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the sliced red cabbage to the pot, along with the apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat.
6. Let it braise for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Cabbage and Quinoa Salad
A vibrant and nutritious salad that combines the sweetness of red cabbage with the nutty flavor of quinoa, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sliced red cabbage, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and olive oil. Pour over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Red Cabbage Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this healthy red cabbage soup is made with simple ingredients and packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Enjoy the warm and soothing flavors of this delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized red cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped red cabbage, vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pickled Red Cabbage with Ginger
This tangy and flavorful pickling recipe combines the sweetness of red cabbage with the spicy warmth of ginger, making it a perfect condiment for any meal. This easy-to-make pickle is great as a side dish or used as an topping for sandwiches, salads, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 cup (250 ml) apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and grated ginger.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cabbage mixture, ensuring that all the cabbage is covered.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 1 week before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Just let it sit and pickle.
Red Cabbage and Carrot Detox Salad
Kickstart your day with this refreshing and healthy salad that combines the sweetness of carrots with the tanginess of red cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Red Cabbage and Carrot Detox Salad!
Red Cabbage and Chickpea Curry
This vibrant and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, with the crunch of red cabbage and the creaminess of chickpeas. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium red cabbage, shredded
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add shredded red cabbage and chickpeas. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Red Cabbage Steaks with Tahini Dressing
Elevate your vegetable game with this sweet and savory recipe featuring grilled red cabbage steaks smothered in a creamy tahini dressing. This unique side dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or as a healthy addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red cabbage, sliced into 1-inch thick slabs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup tahini paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the cabbage slabs.
4. Grill the cabbage for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
5. In a separate bowl, mix tahini paste with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve grilled cabbage steaks with tahini dressing spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Cabbage and Beetroot Smoothie Bowl
A refreshing and healthy breakfast or snack option, this smoothie bowl combines the natural sweetness of red cabbage and beetroot with a hint of earthy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red cabbage
– 1/2 cup cooked beetroot
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: granola, sliced almonds, shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine red cabbage, beetroot, Greek yogurt, honey, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Pour into a bowl and top with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparing ingredients) + blending time
Healthy Red Cabbage Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this vibrant and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of red cabbage with the savory flavors of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of lime juice
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced red cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly caramelized.
4. Stir in lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the cabbage mixture onto a tortilla and adding your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Cabbage and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines the natural sweetness of red cabbage with the comforting warmth of lentils, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With minimal prep and easy cooking, this recipe is a great option for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the shredded red cabbage and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Red Cabbage Kimchi
This Korean-inspired condiment is a flavorful addition to any meal, with the sweetness of red cabbage balanced by the spiciness of Korean chili flakes. This recipe makes about 2 cups of kimchi, perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 small head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of coarse salt
– 1/4 cup of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of fish sauce
– 1/4 cup of rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the sliced red cabbage with the coarse salt for about 5 minutes to help soften the cabbage.
2. Rinse the cabbage with cold water to remove excess salt, then drain well.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the chili flakes, garlic, fish sauce, rice vinegar, water, and ginger. Blend until you get a smooth, spicy paste.
4. Combine the blended paste with the prepared red cabbage and mix well.
5. Pack the kimchi into a jar and let it ferment at room temperature for 1-2 days before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 0 hours
Red Cabbage and Walnut Salad
This hearty salad combines the natural sweetness of red cabbage with the crunch of toasted walnuts, all tied together with a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 small head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and chopped parsley.
2. In a small pan, toast the walnuts over medium heat until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the toasted walnuts and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Cabbage and Sweet Potato Hash
A sweet and savory twist on a classic hash, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the tangy crunch of red cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shredded red cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the cabbage. Stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Red Cabbage and Avocado Wraps
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the sweetness of red cabbage with the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the red cabbage slices and salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 5 minutes to help release its natural sweetness.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced avocado and a pinch of salt.
3. Lay out a tortilla and spread a quarter of the avocado mixture onto the center of the wrap.
4. Add a few handfuls of the massaged red cabbage on top of the avocado.
5. Sprinkle with feta cheese (if using) and season with pepper to taste.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a tight cylinder.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Cabbage and Orange Winter Salad
This refreshing salad celebrates the flavors of winter with a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy ingredients. A perfect side dish or light lunch option for any season.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and orange segments.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese (if using) and chopped parsley over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Discover the versatility of red cabbage with these 18 delicious and healthy recipe ideas! From slaws to soups, salads to stir-fries, and even tacos and smoothie bowls, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of red cabbage paired with apples in a Healthy Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw or try it roasted with balsamic glaze. Other highlights include Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Onions, Red Cabbage and Quinoa Salad, and many more nutritious dishes that showcase the humble red cabbage’s culinary potential.