Roasted Cabbage Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that’s both hearty and bursting with rich flavors, roasted cabbage salad is the perfect dish. Roasting transforms cabbage into a tender, slightly caramelized delight that pairs well with a variety of toppings and dressings. Whether you’re a fan of warm salads, trying to eat more vegetables, or just need a simple but delicious side dish, this recipe is for you.

This salad is incredibly versatile, making it a great choice for busy weeknight meals, meal prep, or even an impressive dish for special occasions. You can customize it with different seasonings, add-ons like nuts or cheese, or pair it with proteins to make it a complete meal.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make the perfect roasted cabbage salad, explore different variations, and discover the nutritional benefits of this easy yet flavorful dish. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Cabbage Salad

Packed with Flavor

Roasting cabbage enhances its natural sweetness and adds a smoky, caramelized taste. The crispy edges and tender inside create a delicious contrast, making every bite enjoyable.

Nutritious and Low in Calories

Cabbage is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making this salad a nutrient-dense choice. It’s filling yet light, perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Simple and Easy to Make

With just a few basic ingredients and minimal preparation, this salad comes together effortlessly. Whether you roast it in the oven or on the stovetop, the process is straightforward and requires no special cooking skills.

Great for Meal Prep

Roasted cabbage holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prepping. You can roast a batch and enjoy it for several meals throughout the week, either as a standalone salad or as a flavorful side dish.

Customizable and Versatile

Whether you prefer Mediterranean flavors, spicy seasonings, or protein-rich add-ins, you can easily adapt this salad to your preferences. Try different dressings, toppings, and seasonings to keep it exciting.

Ingredients for the Best Roasted Cabbage Salad

To create the most flavorful roasted cabbage salad, you’ll need a mix of fresh ingredients, simple seasonings, and optional toppings that enhance the dish. Below is a breakdown of the core ingredients, plus some add-ons for extra taste and texture.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Brussels cabbage (Brussels sprouts)	1 lb	Fresh, trimmed, and halved
Olive oil	2 tbsp	Enhances roasting and adds a rich flavor
Garlic	3 cloves	Minced for a deep, aromatic taste
Salt & black pepper	To taste	Essential for seasoning and balance
Balsamic vinegar	1 tbsp	Adds mild sweetness and enhances caramelization
Parmesan cheese (optional)	¼ cup	Provides a nutty, cheesy finish

Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor

Want to elevate your salad? Try adding these extras:

• Nuts & Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, or sesame seeds for crunch
• Dried Fruits – Cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness
• Fresh Herbs – Parsley, cilantro, or thyme for extra freshness
• Spicy Elements – Chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat
• Protein Options – Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a complete meal

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Cabbage Choice: While Brussels cabbage works best, regular green or purple cabbage can also be used.
• Oil Variations: Swap olive oil for avocado oil or sesame oil for a different taste.
• Cheese Substitutes: For a dairy-free version, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Roasted Cabbage Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious, caramelized roasted cabbage salad with the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Step 1 – Preparing the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even roasting.
2. Prepare the Cabbage –
   • Wash and dry the Brussels cabbage (or cabbage of choice).
   • Cut the Brussels cabbage in half (or slice regular cabbage into wedges or strips).
3. Mince the Garlic – Finely chop the garlic cloves for a strong, rich aroma.
4. Make the Seasoning Mix – In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • Olive oil
   • Balsamic vinegar
   • Minced garlic
   • Salt & black pepper

Step 2 – Roasting the Cabbage

1. Arrange on a Baking Sheet –
   • Spread the cabbage halves or slices evenly on a lined baking tray.
   • Drizzle the prepared seasoning mix over the top.
   • Toss gently to coat all pieces.
2. Roast in the Oven –
   • Place the tray in the preheated oven.
   • Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
   • Look for golden, crispy edges with a slightly caramelized texture.

Step 3 – Assembling the Salad

1. Transfer the Roasted Cabbage to a Serving Bowl – Let it cool slightly.
2. Add Toppings (Optional) – Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, nuts, dried fruits, or fresh herbs for added texture and flavor.
3. Toss Gently – Mix the ingredients lightly to combine flavors.

Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy

• Serve warm as a side dish or add a protein (like grilled chicken or chickpeas) for a full meal.
• Drizzle extra balsamic glaze or garlic butter for enhanced flavor.

Variations and Customization Options for Roasted Cabbage Salad

One of the best things about roasted cabbage salad is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free, low-carb, or protein-rich option, there are plenty of ways to modify this dish to suit your preferences.

1. Dairy-Free & Vegan Option

• Skip the Parmesan cheese – Use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese as an alternative.
• Add plant-based protein – Toss in roasted chickpeas or tofu cubes for extra protein.
• Use tahini dressing – A creamy, nutty tahini sauce pairs beautifully with roasted cabbage.

2. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Version

• Replace balsamic vinegar – Opt for lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to reduce sugar.
• Add healthy fats – Drizzle with avocado oil and sprinkle with chopped almonds or sunflower seeds.
• Pair with keto-friendly proteins – Serve alongside grilled salmon or steak for a satisfying low-carb meal.

3. Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Method

• Slow Cooker:
  • Toss cabbage wedges with seasoning and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
  • Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
• Instant Pot:
  • Use the sauté function for 5 minutes, then pressure cook for 2 minutes on high.
  • Quick-release and toss with cheese or toppings.

4. Spicy Roasted Cabbage Salad

• Add a heat kick – Sprinkle red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika.
• Spicy dressing – Mix Sriracha, honey, and a splash of vinegar for a bold dressing.
• Top with jalapeños – Fresh or pickled jalapeño slices add extra spice.

5. Mediterranean-Style Roasted Cabbage

• Olive oil & lemon dressing – Drizzle with a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
• Add feta cheese & olives – A tangy Mediterranean touch.
• Chickpeas & pine nuts – Roasted chickpeas and nuts add crunch and protein.

Nutritional Breakdown of Roasted Cabbage Salad (Per Serving)

Roasted cabbage salad is packed with essential nutrients while remaining low in calories. Below is the estimated nutritional breakdown per 1-cup serving (without additional toppings like cheese or nuts).

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	Health Benefits
Calories	80-100 kcal	Low in calories, making it a great option for weight-conscious meals.
Carbohydrates	12g	Provides energy while keeping carb intake moderate.
Fiber	4g	Aids digestion, supports gut health, and helps with satiety.
Protein	2g	Small protein content but can be increased with add-ons like chickpeas or chicken.
Fat	5g	Healthy fats from olive oil contribute to heart health.
Vitamin C	45mg (50% DV)	Strengthens the immune system and promotes skin health.
Vitamin K	75mcg (63% DV)	Supports bone health and proper blood clotting.
Potassium	350mg (10% DV)	Helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
Folate	50mcg (12% DV)	Essential for brain function and cell growth.
Antioxidants	High	Contains anthocyanins and sulforaphane, reducing inflammation and promoting long-term health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Roasted Cabbage Salad

How long does cabbage take in the oven?

Cabbage typically takes about 20-25 minutes to roast at 400°F (200°C). However, the cooking time varies based on the size and thickness of the pieces. If you’re roasting thick wedges or large slices, expect to cook them for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even caramelization. For thinly shredded cabbage, the cooking time is shorter, around 15-20 minutes, with occasional stirring to ensure crispiness. If using Brussels cabbage (Brussels sprouts), roasting for 20-25 minutes should yield a golden-brown and tender texture. To achieve extra crispiness, you can broil the cabbage for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

What is the difference between coleslaw and cabbage salad?

The primary difference between coleslaw and cabbage salad is how the cabbage is prepared and the type of dressing used. Coleslaw is traditionally made with raw, finely shredded cabbage and is coated in either a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing or a vinegar-based dressing. It is typically served cold and has a crunchy texture.

On the other hand, cabbage salad can be made with either raw or roasted cabbage, allowing for more variation in texture and taste. It is often dressed with lighter vinaigrettes, balsamic glazes, or oil-based dressings, making it a more versatile dish that can be served either warm or cold. While coleslaw is commonly a side dish for barbecues and sandwiches, roasted cabbage salad is often paired with proteins or served as a main course.

Why do you soak cabbage before cooking?

Soaking cabbage before cooking is an optional but beneficial step. One of the primary reasons for soaking cabbage in cold water for 10-15 minutes is to remove any dirt or impurities that may be trapped in the leaves, ensuring a cleaner preparation. Additionally, soaking helps reduce any bitterness in the cabbage, making it milder in taste, which is particularly useful for raw salads or when roasting.

Soaking also enhances the texture, helping to maintain some crispness, especially if the cabbage is being sautéed or stir-fried. However, if using fresh, pre-washed cabbage or Brussels cabbage, soaking is not necessary and can be skipped to save time.

What is the healthiest way to eat cabbage?

Cabbage is highly nutritious, and the best way to eat it depends on your health goals. Eating cabbage raw in salads and slaws retains the maximum amount of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a great choice for digestion and gut health. Roasting cabbage enhances its flavor while preserving essential nutrients, especially when using minimal oil and seasonings.

Steaming cabbage is another excellent method, as it softens the leaves without depleting too many vitamins, keeping it easy to digest while maintaining its nutritional profile. Fermented cabbage, such as sauerkraut or kimchi, provides gut-friendly probiotics that support digestion and immunity. If you prefer cooked cabbage, sautéing it with a small amount of olive oil and garlic is a great way to enjoy its natural flavors while keeping the dish healthy.

To get the most benefits from cabbage, it’s best to incorporate it into your diet in multiple ways, alternating between raw, roasted, steamed, and fermented preparations.

How do you cut cabbage for roasting?

The way you cut cabbage before roasting depends on the texture you want to achieve. If you prefer thick wedges or slices, cut the cabbage into large portions, keeping the core intact to help hold the pieces together. These take about 25-30 minutes to roast and are great for serving as a side dish.

For a shredded or thinly sliced version, cut the cabbage into thin strips. This allows it to cook faster, usually in 15-20 minutes, and results in crispier, slightly charred edges. It works well for salads or when mixing with other roasted vegetables.

If using Brussels cabbage (Brussels sprouts), simply trim the ends and cut them in half for even cooking. Roasting for 20-25 minutes will bring out their natural sweetness and create a crispy, caramelized texture.

For the best roasting results, spread the cabbage pieces evenly on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roasting at a high temperature will enhance caramelization and bring out a rich, nutty flavor.