Description
This quick and flavorful sautéed cabbage recipe is perfect for a nutritious side dish ready in just 15 minutes. Tender cabbage is caramelized in olive oil and garlic, with optional additions of butter and balsamic vinegar for enhanced richness and tang. The simple seasoning of sea salt and black pepper rounds out this easy, wholesome dish that complements a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 head Green cabbage (~3 lb)
Oils & Fats
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Unsalted butter (optional, but recommended)
Seasonings
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 2 tsp Sea salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into quarters and carefully remove and discard the core. Thinly slice the cabbage quarters into shreds and separate them to ensure even cooking.
- Heat olive oil and sauté garlic. Place a 12 or 13-inch pan with tall sides over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add cabbage and sauté. Add the sliced cabbage to the pan. If all the cabbage does not fit at once, add it in batches, allowing each to wilt slightly before adding more. Continue to sauté the cabbage for 10-15 minutes until you achieve a nice caramelized color. Stir with tongs every 1-2 minutes, but avoid constant stirring to promote browning.
- Add butter and balsamic vinegar (optional). During the last one to two minutes, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the unsalted butter until melted and/or splash in the balsamic vinegar to infuse extra flavor.
- Season and serve. Remove the pan from heat, then season the cabbage with sea salt and black pepper to your preferred taste. Serve warm as a delicious and healthy side dish.
Notes
- Using a pan with tall sides helps to accommodate the volume of cabbage and prevents spillage.
- Allowing the cabbage to caramelize is key to developing sweet, rich flavors; avoid stirring constantly.
- Butter and balsamic vinegar both add depth and complexity but can be omitted for a lighter or dairy-free version.
- Use fresh garlic and good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
