Hey y'all! If you're looking for a vibrant, easy, and totally crave-worthy side dish, this Cabbage Recipe with Carrots and Garlic is calling your name. Sweet carrots, savory cabbage, and aromatic garlic combine for a healthy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or a quick lunch fix. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes and only needs a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Cabbage Recipe with Carrots and Garlic
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in just 25 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from fresh veggies.
- Versatile: Works as a side dish, vegetarian main, or meal prep staple.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combo of garlic, cabbage, and carrot creates irresistible savory-sweet notes.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients available year-round.
Ingredients for Cabbage Recipe with Carrots and Garlic
- 1 medium green cabbage (about 2.5 lbs), cored and thinly sliced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and grated
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions: How to Make Cabbage Recipe with Carrots and Garlic
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Slice the cabbage as thinly as possible for quicker cooking and better texture. Peel and grate the carrots, and mince the garlic cloves. Keep everything ready to go for fast cooking!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently (don’t let it burn!).
Step 3: Add the Carrots and Cabbage
Add the grated carrots to the pan and cook for 2 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly. Toss in the sliced cabbage, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes so nothing sticks. The cabbage will reduce in volume and become tender but still a little crisp. For a softer dish, cook an extra 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat and drizzle in the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Stir and taste, adjusting the salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving for a pop of freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Notes for a Perfect Cabbage Recipe with Carrots and Garlic
- Use a mandoline for ultra-thin, even cabbage slices. Learn more about safe slicing here.
- Try red cabbage for a beautiful color twist and slightly sweeter flavor.
- Don’t skip the acid (vinegar or lemon); it really brightens up the flavors!
Variations on Cabbage Recipe with Carrots and Garlic
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper in Step 2.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap olive oil for sesame oil and finish with a splash of soy sauce.
- With Protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken at the end for a heartier meal.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Vegetable peeler
- Box grater or food processor
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Storage Instructions for Cabbage Recipe with Carrots and Garlic
Let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Not recommended for freezing as the texture can become mushy.
Pairings & Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or tofu.
- Tuck into wraps or sandwiches with hummus for a crunchy bite.
- Pair with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Pro Tips for Cabbage Recipe with Carrots and Garlic
- Let the pan heat up before adding garlic—this draws out maximum flavor. For more about sautéing techniques, check this guide.
- Taste and adjust seasoning after cooking; cabbage absorbs salt and acid during resting.
- For extra savoriness, add a splash of low-sodium soy sauce or tamari at the end. For info on healthy soy sauce swaps, visit this article.
FAQ: Cabbage Recipe with Carrots and Garlic
- Can I use purple cabbage instead of green?
- Absolutely! Purple cabbage brings a brighter color and slightly sweeter flavor to this recipe.
- Is this cabbage recipe with carrots and garlic freezer-friendly?
- It's best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can make the cabbage and carrots mushy.
- Can I make this recipe oil-free?
- Yes, you can sauté the veggies in a splash of vegetable broth or water, though the flavor will be a bit lighter.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, peeled and julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
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1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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2Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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3Stir in the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
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4Season with salt and black pepper. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes.
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5Remove from heat. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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