Cabbage is a vegetable that is often underrated but can be transformed into a flavorful side dish when prepared correctly. Whether you prefer it sautéed, roasted, or shredded into a salad, cabbage’s mild flavor makes it an ideal base for a wide variety of seasonings and cooking techniques. It’s an incredibly affordable and healthy vegetable that’s full of vitamins and fiber. In this guide, we’ll explore 14 flavor-packed cabbage side dishes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish or something light and refreshing, these recipes have something for everyone.
1. Sautéed Garlicky Cabbage
This simple yet flavorful dish features cabbage sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce. The cabbage softens as it cooks, absorbing the garlic and butter, creating a savory, melt-in-your-mouth side dish. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, and you’ve got a perfect accompaniment to any main dish. Get the recipe: Sautéed Garlicky Cabbage
2. Easy Cabbage and Carrot Salad
This light and crunchy combines shredded cabbage and carrots, tossed with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. The cabbage provides a great crunch, while the carrots add a subtle sweetness. A splash of apple cider vinegar and a touch of honey balance out the flavors, making this slaw a perfect addition to BBQs or grilled meats. Get the recipe: Easy Cabbage and Carrot Salad
3. Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Roasting cabbage brings out its natural sweetness and adds a slightly smoky flavor to the dish. Simply slice the cabbage into thick steaks, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you love. Roasting the cabbage at a high temperature creates crispy edges while keeping the center tender and juicy. This dish makes an elegant and simple side for any meal. Get the recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks
4. Sautéed Cabbage with Bacon
This savory side dish combines tender cabbage with crispy bacon, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The bacon imparts a smoky richness to the cabbage, while the cabbage itself provides a slight crunch and sweetness. A dash of vinegar brightens the dish, cutting through the richness for a deliciously well-rounded flavor profile. Get the recipe: Sautéed Cabbage with Bacon
5. Spicy Stir-Fried Cabbage
For those who love bold flavors, this spicy cabbage stir-fry is a must-try. Cabbage is stir-fried with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of chili paste, creating a deliciously spicy and savory dish. The cabbage retains its crunch, making this stir-fry both satisfying and light. Add some sesame seeds and green onions on top for extra flavor and texture. Get the recipe:Spicy Stir-Fried Cabbage
6. Creamy Cabbage Casserole
A rich, comforting side dish, this creamy cabbage casserole combines cabbage with a creamy sauce, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The cabbage softens as it bakes, absorbing all the flavors of the creamy sauce. Topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or holiday meal. Get the recipe: Creamy Cabbage Casserole
7. Pickled Cabbage
Pickled cabbage is tangy, crunchy, and full of flavor. This quick and easy recipe involves pickling cabbage with vinegar, sugar, and mustard seeds. The cabbage absorbs the briny goodness and becomes a perfect topping for tacos, sandwiches, or a side dish for BBQ. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it gets! Get the recipe: Pickled Cabbage
8. Braised Cabbage with Apples
This slightly sweet and savory side dish combines braised cabbage with tender apples, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The cabbage is cooked slowly with onions, apples, and a splash of cider vinegar, allowing the natural sweetness of the apples to balance the richness of the cabbage. It’s a wonderful pairing with roast pork or sausages. Get the recipe: Braised Cabbage with Apples
9.One-Skillet Sausage, Cabbage and Potatoes
A one-pot dish that’s hearty and full of flavor, this recipe combines cabbage with sausage and potatoes for a satisfying meal. The cabbage is sautéed with onions, garlic, and sausages, while the potatoes add substance to the dish. The sausage infuses the cabbage with a rich, meaty flavor, making this a filling side or even a main dish. Get the recipe: One-Skillet Sausage, Cabbage and Potatoes
10. Lemon Garlic Cabbage Salad
This refreshing salad combines shredded cabbage with a zesty lemon garlic dressing. The cabbage is tossed in the dressing and left to marinate, allowing the flavors to meld together. This light and tangy salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or as a topping for tacos or sandwiches. Get the recipe: Lemon Garlic Cabbage Salad
11. Cabbage and Pea Stir-Fry
A quick and colorful stir-fry that combines cabbage, peas, and other veggies, this dish is both healthy and full of flavor. The cabbage remains crunchy, while the peas provide a pop of sweetness. The stir-fry is seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil for a savory, umami-packed dish that complements any main course. Get the recipe: Cabbage and Pea Stir-Fry
12. Cabbage Soup with Bacon and Potatoes
A warming and hearty soup, this recipe combines cabbage with crispy bacon, vegetables, and a rich broth. The bacon adds a smoky depth to the cabbage, and the soup’s comforting texture makes it perfect for chilly nights. Add a dollop of sour cream or some shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess. Get the recipe: Cabbage Soup with Bacon and Potatoes
13. Cabbage Salad with Corn
This refreshing salad combines shredded cabbage with fresh corn, creating a crunchy and sweet contrast. The dressing is made from sour cream, mayonnaise, and a touch of Dijon mustard for creaminess and tang. This salad is a great side dish for summer barbecues or grilled meats. Get the recipe:Cabbage Salad with Corn
14. Cabbage with Mustard Seeds and Turmeric
This Indian-inspired cabbage dish uses mustard seeds, turmeric, and curry leaves to give the cabbage a burst of flavor. The cabbage is cooked in a lightly spiced oil until tender, absorbing all the aromatic spices. This side dish is a great accompaniment to curry dishes or grilled meats. Get the recipe: Cabbage with Mustard Seeds and Turmeric
Cabbage may seem like a simple vegetable, but with these 14 flavor-packed side dishes, you can elevate it to new heights. Whether you prefer it crunchy, tender, savory, or sweet, cabbage is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a dish that suits any palate. These recipes prove that cabbage can be anything but bland. Try these dishes next time you need a flavorful side and enjoy the many ways cabbage can enhance your meals!
