There’s something truly delightful about Grilled Cabbage. The transformation of this humble vegetable into a smoky, charred delight captured my taste buds from my first attempt. Each wedge brings a unique flavor, especially when brushed with garlic and Parmesan. I tested this recipe several times, honing my technique, and discovered just how versatile Grilled Cabbage can be. For another delightful side, check out Maple Roasted Carrots.
About Grilled Cabbage
This delicious Grilled Cabbage recipe originated from my quest to add more vegetables to my meals without the usual boredom. I wanted to find a way to make cabbage exciting! Over the seasons, I’ve tested it countless times, adjusting flavors and techniques, and it has become a cherished staple in my kitchen. It’s budget-friendly and deeply satisfying, making it perfect for casual family dinners or more festive occasions.
- Quick prep time, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Budget-friendly, utilizing inexpensive ingredients.
- A family favorite, often requested at gatherings.
- Cabbage is a versatile vegetable, delicious fresh or cooked.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Cabbage: Main ingredient, versatile and affordable. Any variety works wonderfully!
- Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic depth to each bite.
- Olive Oil: Enhances flavor and helps achieve that crispy char.
- Parmesan: Offers a savory element that complements the smoky flavor.
How to Make Grilled Cabbage
- Start by discarding the outermost layers of the cabbage. Cut it into 2-inch wedges, ensuring to leave the stem intact for stability. This makes the grilling easier!
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. This mixture works wonders for flavor.
- Brush the garlic-Parmesan mix generously over all sides of each cabbage wedge.
- On a preheated grill at 400°F, grill each wedge for 5-6 minutes on each side until beautifully charred. Resist the urge to flip too soon; let that perfect golden-brown crust form!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- I found cutting the cabbage into larger wedges gives a better sear and keeps it juicy inside.
- If the cabbage begins to fall apart while grilling, you might have sliced it too thin; be sure to keep the stem intact.
- For extra flavor, try grilling with added slices of lemon or seasoning blends.
- This recipe is easily scalable; just double the wedges and make sure your grill has enough space.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Grilled Cabbage can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to two months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or on the grill to refresh the smoky flavor. I’ve found reheated wedges still maintain a decent texture!
Serving Suggestions
This Grilled Cabbage pairs beautifully with grilled meats and hearty salads. Serve it alongside Honey Glazed Chicken or a warm Vegetable Soup for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I grill cabbage without oil? Yes, but it may lack flavor; oil helps achieve that perfect char.
- What other vegetables can I grill? Broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini are all excellent choices!
- How do I know when my cabbage is done? The cabbage should be tender but not mushy, with a nice char.
- Can I prepare it ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep and store the wedges in the fridge a day before grilling.
- Is it okay to freeze grilled cabbage? Yes, it freezes well but might lose some crunch upon reheating.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Cabbage has made a special spot in my heart and table. I love serving these smoky wedges as a unique side dish, full of flavor and simplicity. I encourage you to try it out, experiment with flavors, and share your results!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Maple Roasted Carrots – a sweet, savory side dish that pairs well with grilled flavors.
- Honey Glazed Chicken – offers a delicious contrast with the smokiness of grilled cabbage.
- One Pot Chicken and Rice Soup – a hearty dish that complements grilled vegetables beautifully.
Grilled Cabbage
Ingredients
- 1 head cabbage cut into 6 wedges
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly cracked
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 2 Tbsp Parmesan grated
Instructions
- Peel away the outermost layers of cabbage and discard them.
- Cut your cabbage into 2-inch wedges and shave off the very bottom of the stem.
- Whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, chili flakes, and grated Parmesan in a small bowl.
- Brush the Parmesan cheese mixture over all sides of each cabbage wedge.
- Grill the cabbage on each side for 5-6 minutes on a 400-degree grill.
- Dress each grilled cabbage wedge with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and any additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.