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If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, flavorful yet incredibly simple, you’ve got to try the Easy Roasted Cabbage with Onion Dijon Sauce Recipe. This gem transforms humble cabbage into a golden, crispy treat bursting with caramelized edges, all elevated by a luscious, tangy onion Dijon sauce that’s rich without being heavy. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight, perfect to surprise yourself and anyone lucky enough to share the meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward and wholesome ingredients that come together in perfect harmony, each adding its own special touch to the dish’s taste, texture, and color. Nothing complicated, just simple staples that you likely have on hand!
- 1/2 medium green cabbage (about 1½ pounds): The star of the show—packed with crunch and sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or garlic infused olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity richness and helps get those edges deliciously crispy.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
- 3 tablespoons butter or margarine: For a creamy, buttery base in the sauce; margarine keeps it dairy-free.
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh onion or shallot, or white part of sliced green onion: Adds a fresh, mild bite to the tangy mustard sauce—reserve the green parts for garnish.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or to taste): Provides a sharp, tangy punch that brightens the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic (or 1/4 teaspoon dried granulated garlic): For subtle warmth and depth.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sauce.
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper: A touch of heat to lift the flavors.
- Optional: chopped chives or parsley for serving: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and a vibrant finish.
How to Make Easy Roasted Cabbage with Onion Dijon Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready and Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to a robust 450°F (232°C)—this high heat is crucial to get those cabbage edges caramelized and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat so nothing sticks, and cleanup stays easy.
Step 2: Cut and Season Your Cabbage
Slice your half cabbage into four equal wedges. Now, take a pastry brush and coat the cut sides with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Turn the wedges over and repeat so every bit gets a flavorful, oiled hug.
Step 3: Roast Until Golden and Crispy
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and let the cabbage roast for 10-12 minutes. Then, flip each wedge carefully—the secret here is even browning on both sides. Roast for another 8-10 minutes until you see that perfect dark brown edge forming. These slightly charred bits are where all the magic happens, giving incredible texture and a hint of smoky sweetness.
Step 4: Whip Up the Onion Dijon Sauce
While the cabbage roasts, bring a small saucepan to medium heat and add the butter, minced onion or shallot, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper all at once. Stir gently until the butter melts and the mixture becomes fragrant and smooth. If you’re short on time, pop all the ingredients into a microwave-safe container and heat on high for about a minute, reheating briefly if needed.
Step 5: Plate and Dress Your Cabbage
Once your cabbage wedges are perfectly roasted, arrange them on a serving dish. Give the sauce a quick whisk to get it nice and emulsified, then drizzle generously over each wedge. For a lovely final touch, sprinkle with the reserved green onion tops, chopped chives, or parsley—it’s these little details that make every bite pop and look irresistible.
How to Serve Easy Roasted Cabbage with Onion Dijon Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onion tops, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or snips of chives add brightness and color that balance the roasted richness perfectly. They bring a fresh note that keeps the platter inviting and lively.
Side Dishes
This dish plays well with a variety of sides. Think roasted potatoes, quinoa salad, or even grilled chicken for a hearty meal. The cabbage and sauce offer both a splash of tang and a cozy crunch that complements protein and grains alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the cabbage wedges on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra sauce for dipping. You can also chop the roasted cabbage and toss it into a warm grain bowl or serve alongside a spread of Mediterranean mezze for an unexpected delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover roasted cabbage and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making an easy side for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
While cabbage’s texture changes after freezing, you can freeze the onion Dijon sauce separately in small portions. Reheat gently when needed and toss over freshly roasted cabbage for best results.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to re-crisp the edges of the cabbage. If you stuck to the sauce, heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, whisking before serving to bring it back to creamy perfection.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Absolutely! Red cabbage works just as well and offers a beautiful pop of color. Keep in mind it has a slightly different flavor—more earthy and a bit sweeter—so it’s a great variation to try.
Is the butter essential in the sauce?
Butter adds richness and smoothness to the sauce, but margarine works well for a dairy-free alternative without losing flavor. You could even experiment with olive oil, though the sauce may be a bit lighter.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply swap the butter for a plant-based margarine and ensure your Dijon mustard doesn’t contain any honey. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The onion Dijon sauce can be made up to a day in advance and reheated gently before serving. This makes your meal prep even easier.
What’s the best way to get those crispy edges on the cabbage?
The key is high heat roasting at 450°F and flipping the wedges midway. Make sure your cabbage is well coated with oil and avoid overcrowding the pan to maximize crisping.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Easy Roasted Cabbage with Onion Dijon Sauce Recipe enough to anyone looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet wonderfully simple to pull off. It’s a fantastic way to showcase cabbage in a whole new light and makes for a delicious side that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Give it a try and watch this humble veggie shine!
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Easy Roasted Cabbage with Onion Dijon Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
- Total Time: 30-32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Roasted Cabbage with Amazing Onion Dijon Sauce is a simple, flavorful side dish featuring caramelized roasted cabbage wedges paired with a tangy, buttery Dijon mustard sauce infused with fresh onion. Roasting the cabbage brings out its natural sweetness and creates crispy, flavorful edges, while the rich onion Dijon sauce adds a lovely complementary punch. Perfect for a quick weeknight side or elegant addition to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Roasted Cabbage
- 1/2 medium green cabbage (about 1½ pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or garlic infused olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Onion Dijon Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter or margarine (to keep dairy free)
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh onion or shallot, or white part of sliced green onion (reserve green parts for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic (or 1/4 teaspoon dried granulated garlic)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- Optional: chopped chives or parsley for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the cabbage wedges: Cut the half cabbage into four equal wedges. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, coat the cut sides of each wedge with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Turn the wedges and coat the other side the same way.
- Roast the cabbage: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the cabbage wedges for 10-12 minutes. Flip each wedge carefully and continue roasting for another 8-10 minutes until the cabbage is nicely browned and crispy on the edges. Some charring is welcome as it adds wonderful texture and flavor.
- Make the onion Dijon sauce: While the cabbage roasts, combine the butter, minced onion or shallot, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce is warmed through. Alternatively, place ingredients in a microwavable container and heat on high for about 1 minute; reheat if needed before serving.
- Serve: Arrange the roasted cabbage wedges on a serving plate. Whisk the sauce again to emulsify if needed, then drizzle generously over the cabbage. Garnish with chopped green onion tops, chives, or parsley as desired.
Notes
- Use garlic-infused olive oil for a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the cabbage.
- Adjust Dijon mustard according to your preferred tanginess level.
- Keep the reserved green onion tops or fresh herbs for a bright, fresh garnish.
- Watch the cabbage closely when roasting; some charring adds flavor but avoid excessive burning.
- To make the dish dairy-free, use margarine instead of butter.
