Roasted Cabbage with Yoghurt Sauce

Roasted cabbage wedges are elevated to a new level of deliciousness in this easy-to-make dish. Brushed with a za’atar-spiced olive oil mixture and roasted until tender and caramelized, the cabbage develops crispy edges and a nutty aroma. The creamy yoghurt sauce, enhanced with mustard and garlic, adds a tangy and rich finish, making it a perfect companion to the warm cabbage. This recipe is a great choice for those seeking a simple yet flavorful vegan side dish or snack. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch, a side for dinner, or a healthy appetizer, these roasted cabbage wedges deliver on both nutrition and taste. Pair them with your favorite Mediterranean mains, or serve them on their own for a satisfying, wholesome treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • ½ head cabbage
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp za’atar
  • 1 tbsp chili oil (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley

Yoghurt Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp vegan yoghurt (preferably Greek style)
  • ½ tbsp whole-grain mustard
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the cabbage half into six wedges and place them on the lined baking sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, za’atar, salt, and black pepper. Using a basting brush, coat both sides of the cabbage wedges with the mixture.
  4. Roast the cabbage in the oven for 40 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
  5. In the meantime, mix all the yoghurt sauce ingredients in a separate bowl until smooth.
  6. To serve, spread 1 tablespoon of yoghurt sauce on a serving plate. Arrange the roasted cabbage wedges on top and drizzle with additional yoghurt sauce. Garnish with parsley, a sprinkle of za’atar, and a drizzle of chili oil if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 2 servings

A Versatile and Healthy Dish

Roasted cabbage with yoghurt sauce is a recipe that brings out the best in humble ingredients, transforming them into a dish that is flavorful, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. With its caramelized, crispy edges and tangy, creamy sauce, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between taste and simplicity. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a light snack, or an elegant addition to your dinner table, this roasted cabbage creation has you covered.

The Beauty of Roasted Vegetables

Roasting is a cooking technique that works wonders on vegetables, especially cabbage. When exposed to high heat, cabbage develops a sweet, nutty flavor as its natural sugars caramelize. The outer layers become delightfully crispy, while the inside remains tender and juicy. This process elevates the simple cabbage into something extraordinary, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring.

The addition of za’atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend made of dried herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac, further enhances the flavor profile. Za’atar adds a touch of earthiness and tanginess, complementing the sweetness of the roasted cabbage. When paired with a creamy yoghurt sauce, the dish becomes a celebration of textures and flavors: crispy, tender, tangy, and rich, all in one bite.

Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage

Cabbage is often overlooked in the world of vegetables, but it’s a powerhouse of nutrients. Low in calories and high in fiber, cabbage is a great choice for those aiming to maintain a healthy diet. It’s packed with vitamins C and K, which support immune function and bone health. Additionally, cabbage contains antioxidants like anthocyanins and sulforaphane, which are known to reduce inflammation and may help protect against chronic diseases.

When roasted, cabbage retains its nutritional value while gaining a delicious flavor profile. Paired with a yoghurt-based sauce, the dish also provides a dose of protein and probiotics, making it as nourishing as it is tasty.

Versatility for Different Occasions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. It can serve as a healthy appetizer, a light lunch, or a side dish to complement a main course. The roasted cabbage pairs beautifully with a variety of Mediterranean dishes, such as grilled vegetables, falafel, or lentil-based entrees. It’s also a great addition to a holiday spread, offering a lighter, plant-based option alongside heavier dishes.

For those who love to experiment in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to customize. You can swap out za’atar for your favorite spice blend, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even sprinkle some nuts or seeds for added crunch. The yoghurt sauce can be adjusted to your taste by adding more garlic, lemon, or mustard.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Plant-Based Diets

As more people explore plant-based eating, recipes like roasted cabbage with yoghurt sauce are gaining popularity. This dish is entirely vegan, using dairy-free yoghurt to create a creamy and satisfying sauce. It’s proof that you don’t need animal products to make a rich and flavorful dish.

Plant-based diets are not only beneficial for health but also for the environment. By choosing recipes like this one, you’re contributing to a more sustainable food system while enjoying a delicious meal.

The Art of Presentation

The visual appeal of this dish is another reason it stands out. The golden-brown cabbage wedges, drizzled with creamy yoghurt sauce and garnished with fresh parsley and chili oil, are a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or snapping a quick photo for social media, this dish is sure to impress.

To enhance the presentation, consider serving the cabbage wedges on a large platter, with the sauce elegantly drizzled or served on the side. You can also mix and match garnishes, such as pomegranate seeds, toasted sesame seeds, or fresh herbs, to add pops of color and texture.

Conclusion:

Roasted cabbage with yoghurt sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder of how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly special. It’s a dish that checks all the boxes: nutritious, flavorful, versatile, and visually stunning. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers exceptional results every time.

The next time you’re in need of a healthy yet satisfying dish, give roasted cabbage with yoghurt sauce a try. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, loved by vegans and non-vegans alike. So, preheat your oven, grab some cabbage, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to make.