This versatile cabbage recipe is a delicious and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Cabbage is a budget-friendly superstar, offering a mild flavor that complements a variety of ingredients. In this recipe, cabbage is simply seasoned and cooked until tender, then combined with a flavorful mix of sauteed leeks, garlic, carrots, mushrooms, and tomatoes. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a finishing touch!
Ingredients:
- Cabbage: The star of the show! Use 1-2 small cabbages, depending on how much you want to make. Green cabbage is most common, but you can also experiment with Savoy cabbage or Napa cabbage for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Vegetables: Leeks, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms add variety, flavor, and essential nutrients to the dish.
- Seasonings: Simple is best! Salt, Provencal herbs (a blend of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, savory, and marjoram), black pepper, and sweet paprika add depth of flavor.
- Tomatoes: Pureed tomatoes create a slightly sweet and tangy sauce that ties everything together.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty and savory finishing touch. You can also use another type of hard Italian cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
Directions:
- Prep the Cabbage: Cut the cabbage into wedges and toss with olive oil, salt, and Provencal herbs. Sauté the cabbage wedges until softened slightly, then add a little water and simmer until tender.
- Saute the Vegetables: While the cabbage simmers, sauté leeks, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
- Combine and Simmer: Combine the cooked cabbage with the sauteed vegetables, add pureed tomatoes, and season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and enjoy!
Health Benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also good for you! Here’s a quick rundown of the health benefits of some of the key ingredients:
- Cabbage: A low-calorie vegetable that’s an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber.
- Leeks: A good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and manganese.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and may help lower blood pressure.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A, important for eye health.
- Mushrooms: Low in calories and fat-free, they contain antioxidants and may help boost the immune system.
- Tomatoes: A good source of vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Conclusion:
This easy and flavorful cabbage recipe is a perfect weeknight meal that’s both budget-friendly and nutritious. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and enjoy the many health benefits they offer. So give it a try and see for yourself!