Can I use red cabbage instead of green for this recipe?

Absolutely! Red cabbage works beautifully and adds gorgeous color to your plate. It may take slightly longer to soften and will have a slightly stronger flavor. A splash of vinegar or lemon juice helps maintain its vibrant purple color during cooking.

My cabbage seems to be taking longer than 15 minutes to cook. What's happening?

The cooking time can vary based on how thickly you've sliced your cabbage and how tender you prefer it. Older, larger cabbages can also be tougher and require more time. If it's taking too long, you can add a tablespoon or two of water and cover the pan for a few minutes to help it steam and soften.

Can I make this dish oil-free?

While the oil helps with flavor and caramelization, you can reduce it significantly. Try using a good non-stick pan and a tablespoon of broth or water to prevent sticking. The cabbage won't brown as nicely, but it will still taste delicious.

Does this recipe work well for meal prep?

It's perfect for meal prep! Sautéed cabbage reheats beautifully and actually improves in flavor after a day in the refrigerator. Make a double batch and enjoy it throughout the week as an easy vegetable side.

Simple Sautéed Cabbage Recipe

Name: Simple Sautéed Cabbage Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (extra virgin); 1 small head of cabbage; 1 tsp salt; Optional: 1/2 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for added heat)

Description

A simple, quick, and flavorful side dish that transforms a humble vegetable into a delicious addition to any meal. With minimal ingredients and effort, this sautéed cabbage recipe is tender, savory, and slightly caramelized to perfection, making it a healthy and irresistible side dish for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (extra virgin)
1 small head of cabbage
1 tsp salt
Optional: 1/2 tsp black pepper
Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for added heat)

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Instructions

Prepare the Cabbage
Remove any damaged or tattered outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage in half or quarters. Carefully cut out and discard the core. Place the cabbage, with the flat side down on a cutting board, and slice it into thin shreds about 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide.
Heat the Oil
In a large skillet (a 12-inch one works best), heat the olive or avocado oil over medium-high heat.
Cook the Cabbage
Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and sprinkle with salt. Stir well to coat the cabbage with oil and seasoning. Let the cabbage cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–15 minutes or until it becomes tender and develops a slight browning.
Add Final Seasoning
Taste the sautéed cabbage and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Optionally, add the black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Notes

The cabbage will shrink significantly during cooking, so make sure to use a skillet large enough to stir without spilling.
For a slightly sweeter version, consider adding a teaspoon of sugar to the cabbage while it cooks.
You can use green or purple cabbage for this recipe, but green cabbage is most commonly used.
This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a topping for tacos and sandwiches.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 75
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg