Grilled Cabbage

My Simple Grilled Cabbage Recipe: A Weeknight Staple

As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious recipes that the whole family will enjoy. This grilled cabbage recipe has become a staple in our dinner rotation. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and requires minimal cleanup – a huge win in my book! I discovered it years ago in a magazine and have tweaked it slightly to fit my preferences. The smoky char from the grill adds a depth of flavor that you won't find in boiled or steamed cabbage. It's far from the mushy, overcooked cabbage of my childhood memories. This is a recipe I can honestly say I look forward to making, and my family looks forward to eating.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a few basic ingredients and about 20 minutes of your time. It's the perfect side dish to complement grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian main course. The slightly sweet and savory flavor profile of the grilled cabbage cuts through richer dishes beautifully. I often find myself doubling the recipe, especially during summer BBQs, as it disappears quickly! And because it’s so easy to customize, you can add other spices, herbs, or even a little bit of honey to adjust it to your taste. The possibilities are truly endless.

Beyond the Grill: While grilling is my preferred method, you can easily adapt this recipe for the oven. Simply arrange the cabbage wedges on a baking sheet lined with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until tender. While the grill imparts a unique flavor, the oven-baked version is just as delicious and convenient for those without access to a grill. The key is to ensure the cabbage is cooked through, tender, but still retains a bit of its firmness; overcooking will result in mushy cabbage, and no one wants that!

Serving Suggestions: I love serving this grilled cabbage as a side dish to a variety of meals. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, like chicken, steak, or sausages. It’s a nice contrast to the richness of these dishes, adding a refreshing, slightly sweet counterpoint. The cabbage works particularly well with dishes that have bolder, spicier flavors, helping to balance the overall taste. It also makes a great addition to a summer picnic, potluck, or casual get-together.

Variations & Tweaks: Feel free to experiment with different flavors and seasonings. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or try incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary for an earthier taste. A drizzle of balsamic glaze after grilling adds a lovely sweetness and tanginess. For a vegetarian option, simply leave out the butter, and use olive oil instead.

This simple recipe has truly become a favorite in our home, and I hope it becomes one of yours too. The combination of ease, delicious flavor, and nutritional value make it a winner in my book. Give it a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below!

Step-by-step

• Cut cabbage into eight wedges.
• Place cabbage wedges on a double thickness of heavy-duty foil (about 24 in. x 12 in.).
• Spread cut sides with butter.
• Sprinkle with onion, garlic salt, and pepper.
• Fold foil around cabbage and seal tightly.
• Grill, covered, over medium heat for 20 minutes or until tender.
• Open foil carefully to allow steam to escape.