Mediterranean Crispy Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Mediterranean Crispy Roasted Cabbage Steaks are one of those simple, humble dishes that surprise you with how flavorful they can be. Thick slices of cabbage are brushed with olive oil, seasoned with aromatic spices, and roasted until the edges turn golden and crisp while the centers stay tender. The result is a dish that’s both rustic and elegant — a perfect side for grilled meats, roasted fish, or even served as a plant-based main with a drizzle of tahini or lemon dressing.
This recipe highlights the best of Mediterranean cooking: clean ingredients, vibrant flavors, and effortless preparation.
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 large cabbage (green or red)
3–4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
¼ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
Salt: to taste (preferably kosher or sea salt)
Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Optional garnishes: lemon wedges, fresh dill, or chopped parsley
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Heat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Cabbage:
Remove any loose or tough outer leaves. Trim the stem slightly but leave enough to hold the slices together. Cut the cabbage into ¾-inch to 1-inch thick “steaks”—you should get about 4 to 6 slices, depending on the size.
Season the Steaks:
Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and, if using, onion powder and herbs.
Roast:
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The edges should be deeply golden and crispy, while the centers remain tender.
Finish and Serve:
Once roasted, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cabbage and garnish with dill or parsley. Serve immediately.
Tips
Cut Evenly: Try to keep each steak the same thickness so they roast evenly and don’t burn on the edges before the center softens.
Use Enough Oil: Olive oil is key to achieving that crispy, caramelized surface. Don’t skimp on it.
Flip Carefully: Use a wide spatula to flip the steaks halfway through roasting — they’ll soften and need gentle handling.
For Extra Crispiness: After roasting, broil for 1–2 minutes to brown the edges further. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Serving Ideas: These pair beautifully with a yogurt-garlic sauce, hummus, or even a spoonful of romesco.
Variations
Garlic-Parmesan Cabbage Steaks:
Sprinkle grated Parmesan or pecorino over the cabbage during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a savory crust.
Spicy Mediterranean:
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or drizzle with harissa oil before roasting.
Herb-Lemon Version:
Replace paprika with lemon zest and toss the roasted steaks with chopped fresh herbs like basil, mint, or dill.
Tahini Drizzle:
After baking, drizzle with a quick sauce made from tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water for a creamy Mediterranean finish.
Vegan Sheet Pan Meal:
Roast the cabbage alongside chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and olives for a full one-pan dinner.
Q&A
Q: Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes. Red cabbage works just as well, though it may take a few minutes longer to soften and will have a slightly earthier flavor.
Q: How do I prevent the cabbage from burning?
If the edges start to brown too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly or move the tray to a lower rack.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can roast them in advance and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.
Q: What can I serve them with?
They go well with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple lentil or couscous salad. For a vegan meal, top with roasted chickpeas or a dollop of hummus.
Q: Can I air fry them?
Yes. Cook at 190°C (375°F) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 120 kcal
Fat: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Protein: 2 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 200 mg
Vitamin C: 50% DV
Conclusion
Mediterranean Crispy Roasted Cabbage Steaks prove that simple vegetables can be turned into something extraordinary. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get tender, golden slices packed with flavor and texture. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a plant-based main dish, this recipe brings warmth, freshness, and a touch of Mediterranean flair to your table. Drizzle with lemon, sprinkle with herbs, and enjoy every crispy bite.