Simple Roasted Cabbage Wedges
Roasting cabbage transforms this humble vegetable into a surprisingly tender, sweet, and deeply flavorful side dish with crispy edges, making it an effortlessly delicious addition to any meal.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or use two smaller sheets if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Prepare the cabbage: Remove any loose or damaged outer leaves from the head of cabbage. Place the cabbage on a cutting board with the core facing down. Carefully cut the cabbage in half through the core, then cut each half into 3-4 wedges, ensuring each wedge retains a portion of the core to hold its leaves together. Aim for wedges about 1.5 inches thick at their widest point.
Arrange the cabbage: Place the cabbage wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for even roasting and browning.
Season generously: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the cabbage wedges. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and any optional seasonings like smoked paprika or onion powder. Use your hands to gently rub the oil and seasonings into all sides of the cabbage.
Roast: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Roast for 15 minutes.
Flip and continue roasting: Carefully flip each cabbage wedge. Continue to roast for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are beautifully browned and slightly crispy.
Serve immediately: Remove from the oven and serve hot as a delicious and healthy side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcrowd: Ensure cabbage wedges are in a single layer with space between them on the baking sheet. Overcrowding steams the cabbage instead of roasting it, preventing browning and crispiness. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- 2Keep the Core Intact: When cutting the wedges, make sure each piece has a bit of the core attached. This helps the leaves stay together during roasting, preventing them from falling apart.
- 3High Heat is Key: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) is crucial for achieving that desirable caramelization and tender-crisp texture. Lower temperatures will result in softer, less flavorful cabbage.
- 4Experiment with Seasonings: While salt, pepper, and garlic powder are classic, feel free to experiment with other spices like onion powder, paprika (smoked or sweet), chili flakes for a kick, or a dash of cumin for an earthy note.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Roasted Cabbage
Add 1/4 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other seasonings for a delightful kick.
Balsamic Glazed CabbageBalsamic Glazed Cabbage
Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar over the cabbage during the last 5-7 minutes of roasting for a tangy, sweet glaze.
Cheesy Roasted CabbageCheesy Roasted Cabbage
Sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the cabbage during the last 5 minutes of roasting until melted and slightly golden.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Cabbage is packed with vitamins K and C, as well as fiber, providing essential nutrients for overall health and immune function.
Digestive Health
The high fiber content in cabbage promotes healthy digestion, aids in regular bowel movements, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Cabbage contains various antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, such as sulforaphane and anthocyanins, which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, red cabbage or savoy cabbage can also be roasted using this method. Red cabbage will retain its vibrant color, while savoy cabbage offers a slightly more delicate texture. Cooking times may vary slightly.
