Indulge in the vibrant flavor and stunning color of purple cabbage without breaking the bank. This versatile veggie can be used in a multitude of dishes, from raw and stir-fried to boiled, roasted, pickled, or fermented. Its impressive shelf life and antioxidant-rich properties make it an excellent addition to any meal.
With its global popularity evident in countless recipes, it’s no surprise that purple cabbage has earned its spot as a superfood. Today, we’re excited to share 31 innovative ways to incorporate this nutritional powerhouse into your daily diet.
Braised German Cabbage
Red cabbage, also affectionately known as rotkohl, undergoes a remarkable transformation when slow-cooked in a rich, acidic braise. This quintessential German condiment has the power to elevate the bold flavors of traditional German cuisine – think hearty meats and pungent cheeses. With its depth of flavor and tangy zing, this braised red cabbage is an excellent addition to any meal, offering a delightful surprise that will keep you reaching for it in your fridge time and again.
Oven Roasted Cabbage Steaks
One of the simplest yet most satisfying recipes on this list is roasted red cabbage – a true showstopper that requires minimal ingredients to create a culinary masterpiece. So, what’s the magic behind these delectable cabbage steaks? They’re surprisingly tender, with a satisfying crunch and an explosion of flavor! These vegetarian-friendly alternatives to traditional steak are not only perfect for a main course but also add a delightful bulk to any salad. Interestingly, this recipe can be easily adapted to use green cabbage instead, simply by adding a tangy balsamic vinegar glaze.
Spaetzle with Cabbage and Bacon
Sitting down to a plate of spaetzle is like being enveloped in a warm hug from Germany’s culinary tradition. This diminutive dumpling-like dish may share some similarities with its Polish counterparts, but its unique charm lies in its comforting familiarity. Typically served alongside the vibrant colors of red cabbage and crispy bacon, spaetzle embodies the quintessential comfort food experience.
As you take a bite, the tanginess of the cabbage and sweet crunch of the onion meld seamlessly with the rich, satisfying protein to create a harmonious balance of flavors. And when you’re left with leftovers, don’t worry – simply store them in an airtight container and look forward to a week’s worth of delicious meals.
For more authentic German recipes that evoke the same sense of warmth and tradition, explore our collection today.
Turkish Cabbage Salad
From the heart of Turkey comes a refreshing recipe that’s sure to become a staple in any culinary collection. This humble purple cabbage salad, commonly found in Turkish restaurants, kebab stops, and homes alike, is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. Its tangy, crunchy essence makes it the perfect accompaniment to rich, saucy meals, particularly when paired with warm flatbread. What’s more, this recipe lends itself beautifully to advance preparation, allowing you to effortlessly keep it chilled in your fridge for a quick and easy side dish solution.
Chinese Cabbage Salad with Ramen Noodles
Indulge in the harmonious blend of Chinese and Japanese flavors with this fusion salad, crafted by combining pages from a few cookbooks. A symphony of fresh ingredients comes together to create a delightfully crunchy, sweet, and nutty experience. This recipe lends itself perfectly to meal prep for work lunches or as a refreshing side dish for heartier meals. Its versatility knows no bounds, making it an excellent addition to any culinary adventure.
Thai Chopped Salad
Thai-inspired salads are always a treat, and this chopped masterpiece is no exception. It’s a vibrant medley of colors, textures, and flavors that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling refreshed. This recipe is another go-to for quick, easy, and healthy meal prep options – simply customize it with whatever veggies and flavors you have on hand to make it your own. And let’s be real, this salad would be a refreshing hit at any summer gathering, from pool parties to picnics.
Braised Cabbage with Onions and Apple
Indulge your taste buds with the harmonious blend of flavors that emerges when you braise your cabbage. This delectable recipe offers a surefire way to revitalize this versatile vegetable in a remarkably short period. The sweetness of caramelized onions and crisp apples expertly balances the earthy undertones of the cabbage, culminating in a dish that’s both savory and sublime.
Egg Roll in a Bowl
Are you frequently overcome by takeout cravings? If the desire for a bite from your go-to Chinese fast-food spot is strong, resist the temptation! Instead, treat yourself to this nutritious egg roll in a bowl recipe, which just so happens to be keto-friendly – boasting low carb counts and high protein levels. This versatile dish can be easily customized to cater to your unique tastes.
Cabbage Soup
While cabbage soup often gets a bad rap for being smelly or unappealing, that reputation doesn’t quite add up. In reality, red cabbage soup can be incredibly delicious and packed with nutrients when prepared just right. The vibrant purple color of the soup is undeniably striking on the plate, and the subtle sweetness and earthy notes of the flavors are truly exceptional. And the best part? You can have this delightful soup ready in just 40 minutes – a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Asian Chopped Chicken Salad Wrap
Kickstart your busy day with this nutritious Asian chopped chicken salad wrap that’s as effortless as it is delicious. Packed with essential nutrients, fiber, and vitamins, this meal-in-one is designed to fuel your mind and body for a long day ahead. Plus, its lightning-fast prep time means you can easily prepare it the night before or in the morning, then assemble the wraps at work – talk about stress-free!
Healthy Greek Yogurt Coleslaw
Coleslaw, a classic way to enjoy purple cabbage, typically pairs it with crunchy carrots and a zesty dressing. But many recipes go overboard on the mayonnaise, masking the natural flavors. Not this Greek yogurt coleslaw! It’s a lighter, more refreshing take on the traditional. Ideal for hot summer days.
If you’re looking for other delicious Greek-inspired dishes, we’ve got you covered!
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
When it comes to coleslaw recipes, another standout option is the cranberry and apple combination. This sweet and crunchy twist adds a delightful depth to an already tasty slaw. The result is a refreshing, satisfying side dish that would be right at home at your next potluck or barbecue. For an added bonus, try preparing the slaw without the apples a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Crunchy Asian Salad with Sweet Chilli Dressing
Looking for a speedy yet satisfying side dish to accompany your favorite Asian-inspired meals? Look no further than this quick and easy red cabbage salad, which can be prepared in just ten minutes flat! The real magic happens when you combine the crunch of the cabbage with the sweet and savory flavors of sweet chili jam and sesame oil. This delightful concoction makes a fantastic accompaniment to wraps, noodle soups, or even serves as a fresh addition to your meal prep for lunch.
Baja Style Fish Tacos
Baja California is renowned for its mouthwatering fish tacos, a culinary masterpiece that harmoniously combines seafood and Mexican flavors. If you’re a seafood enthusiast or a fan of Mexican cuisine, this recipe is an absolute must-try. The combination of crispy, flaky fish, fresh greens, and tangy avocado crema creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for more. And the best part? These tacos are surprisingly filling without weighing you down. Pair them with some authentic Mexican bread recipes for the ultimate culinary experience.
Sauteed Cabbage
When it comes to side dishes, simplicity is key, and one classic way to achieve that is by sautéing cabbage. If you’ve got a purple cabbage on its last legs in your fridge, this recipe is perfect for using it up before it’s too late. By cooking the cabbage until it’s tender, you’re bringing out its natural sweetness – just enough to make it incredibly addictive. The crunchy texture, rich flavor, and vibrant color of this dish make it a standout addition to any meal.
Cabbage Sauerkraut
While time-consuming, this recipe’s payoff is well worth the wait. The combination of cabbage and sauerkraut has been expertly refined by German cuisine, yielding a tangy condiment that pairs remarkably well with sharp mustard and rich cheese. When prepared to perfection, it’s astonishing how easily this sauerkraut can elevate even the most mundane dishes into something irresistibly addictive. With its straightforward preparation process, having some on hand at all times becomes an intuitive decision.
Sesame Stir-Fried Kale and Cabbage
Elevate your kale salad by introducing new textures and flavors. Simply heat a pan with some sesame oil and add shredded purple cabbage. The crunch from the cabbage provides a delightful contrast, while the nutty flavor of the sesame oil draws out the earthy undertones of the kale. This harmonious combination makes for a satisfying side dish or a robust base for a more substantial green salad.
Crunchy Soba Noodle and Cabbage Stir Fry
As the day comes to a close, unwind with a wholesome meal that’s as quick as it is nourishing. Our next recipe is designed for busy evenings, requiring just 25 minutes from start to finish. The combination of red cabbage, carrot, and sesame seeds adding texture and crunch to the chewy soba noodles provides not only a nutritious boost but also a pop of color that will have even the pickiest eaters eager to take another bite.
Asian Cabbage Salad
While many Asian-inspired cabbage salads may be delightful as a side dish or snack, they often fall short as a standalone meal. Not so with this recipe. This vibrant salad boasts a satisfying heft, thanks to its thoughtful combination of nutrient-dense ingredients and bold flavors.
A symphony of textures, colors, and tastes comes together in perfect harmony here. The creamy spicy peanut dressing provides a rich and indulgent touch, while the crunchy cashews add a delightful contrast. Meanwhile, the fluffy quinoa lends a satisfying heartiness to each bite. This dish truly shines as one of my top picks for a nutritious and filling lunch option.
Trout Tacos with Mango Salsa
With just 15 minutes on your hands, you can whip up a delectable dinner that’s bursting with flavor. The key ingredient is tender and juicy chicken breast, which cooks rapidly and pairs beautifully with bold spices. To add some freshness and crunch, red cabbage slaws and zesty salsa come together in perfect harmony. This recipe is a summer camping essential – simply squeeze on some lime juice to complete the dish and transport yourself to a taste of summertime bliss.
Thermomix Coleslaw
Within minutes of whipping out your trusty Thermomix chopper – or, indeed, no chopper at all – you can craft a refreshing summer coleslaw that’s perfect for impromptu BBQ gatherings with friends. If you opt to skip the electric assistance, don’t worry; it’ll still take only slightly longer to prepare. This light and airy slaw is designed to be whipped up in advance, allowing its flavors to meld together beautifully by the time you serve it. As a result, this recipe has become one of the most sought-after potluck staples – and for good reason!
Thai Cabbage Salad
Thai cuisine is renowned for its bold aromas, which are achieved through the strategic use of ingredients like ginger, lemongrass, and fish sauce. These fragrant elements not only add depth to dishes but also tantalize the senses. It’s no surprise then that a simple cabbage salad, infused with these same aromatics, would pack a similar punch. This vibrant side dish has the potential to upstage even the main course with its irresistible flavors.
Grilled Cabbage Slaw
Transform a humble cabbage slaw by infusing it with the rich flavors of grilling. As the purple cabbage hits the grill, its natural sugars are coaxed out and combined with a deep smokiness that elevates the entire dish. The result is a slaw that’s still crunchy but now boasts an added depth and complexity that will leave everyone craving more – including yourself! And the best part? This flavor-packed slaw can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
Jerk Chicken Tacos
Jamaica’s culinary scene shines bright with one iconic dish standing out from the rest: jerk chicken. This bold, spicy flavor profile has captured hearts worldwide, making it an integral part of any meal. The sweetness of the Caribbean is perfectly balanced by the pungency of spices, resulting in a truly unforgettable taste experience.
In this recipe, the addition of red cabbage to jerk chicken tacos proves to be nothing short of genius. The crunch and slight bitterness of the cabbage provide a welcome respite from the rich, tender chicken, expertly highlighting its succulent texture.
Braised Cabbage
When people think about braising, they often imagine a lengthy process that requires patience and time. But what if you could achieve similar flavors in just half an hour? With some clever tweaks, you can replicate the rich taste of hours-long braising in a fraction of the time. This recipe for braised cabbage is a perfect example – it yields a deliciously cooked cabbage with a satisfying crunch that still packs plenty of flavor.
Asian Slaw with Sesame Dressing
Sesame and cabbage form a harmonious union in this vibrant salad. The nutty undertones of the sesame seamlessly merge with the earthy essence of the cabbage, establishing a sense of stability and depth. Meanwhile, the sweet, crunchy bell peppers inject a pop of freshness, creating a delightful balance of flavors. This versatile salad is ideal for potlucks and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to impress your guests with minimal fuss.
Pickled Cabbage
If you’re craving the tangy flavor of sauerkraut but don’t have the time to wait for fermentation, consider this quick pickled red cabbage recipe instead. Within an hour and fifteen minutes, you can achieve a similar taste profile. The combination of vinegars, sugars, and spices in the pickling liquid enhances the natural acidity in the cabbage, while simultaneously softening its texture to mimic the characteristic ‘fermented’ feel. This condiment is perfect for storing in your fridge.
Mutton and Cabbage Stew
A culinary fusion like no other – where East meets North. Our recipe brings together the bold flavors of Asian cuisine with the hearty warmth of Nordic traditions, resulting in a mutton and cabbage stew that’s as comforting as it is innovative. The addition of ginger, garlic, red cabbage, and soy sauce injects a delightful balance of sweet and savory notes, making this dish an excellent choice for any time of year.
Cabbage Steaks with Balsamic Dressing
Start your dinner party on a flavorful note by serving delectable cabbage steaks smothered in an irresistible balsamic dressing. The tangy acidity of the dressing cleverly balances the natural sweetness of the cabbage, resulting in a refreshing and revitalizing culinary experience that will awaken the palate and set the tone for a memorable evening.
Buddha Bowls with Sweet Potatoes
The Buddha bowl is incomplete without a crunchy element that brings balance to the dish. This role is fulfilled by fresh purple cabbage, which counterbalances the cooked components of the bowl, infusing it with a refreshing summery essence. To elevate this component, consider lightly pickling your red cabbage – the acidity will harmonize perfectly with roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, roast chickpeas and creamy hummus.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Garlic
To conclude our culinary journey, we’re highlighting a recipe that showcases cabbage at its finest: roasted to perfection. This effortless side or appetizer requires only 30 minutes of prep time, making it an ideal option for busy home cooks.
With a generous drizzle of garlic, these tender steaks are infused with earthy flavors and a depth of taste that will leave you craving more.
