Get ready to add a pop of color and a boost of nutrition to your meals with these 20 vibrant purple cabbage healthy recipes! Purple cabbage is often overlooked in favor of its more famous cousin, green cabbage, but it’s actually packed with even more antioxidants and vitamins. From crunchy slaws to hearty stews, we’ve rounded up the most delicious and creative ways to use this stunning vegetable.
In our collection below, you’ll find a range of recipe ideas that showcase purple cabbage in all its glory. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a satisfying main course, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get creative with your cooking, and make the most of this amazing ingredient!
Purple Cabbage Slaw with Citrus Dressing
This vibrant slaw is a refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, featuring the sweet and earthy flavor of purple cabbage paired with a zesty citrus dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head purple cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded purple cabbage and salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 5 minutes to help release its natural sweetness.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the citrus dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until the slaw is evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Braised Purple Cabbage with Apples
Braised Purple Cabbage with Apples: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Recipe
This hearty side dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of purple cabbage, all wrapped up in a rich and tangy braising liquid. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a accompaniment to your favorite holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 medium apples, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped apples and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Add the sliced cabbage, caraway seeds, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let braise for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pickled Purple Cabbage Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this unexpected combination of flavors and textures. Sweet and tangy pickled purple cabbage adds a pop of color and excitement to traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Toppings: diced chicken or beef, shredded cheese, cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced purple cabbage, white vinegar, sugar, water, and salt. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
3. Cook chicken or beef according to your preference, then chop into small pieces.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked meat, pickled purple cabbage, and desired toppings onto the tortilla.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (pickling time) + 10-15 minutes (cooking meat and warming tortillas)
Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks
Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks: A flavorful and nutritious side dish that adds a pop of color to any meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 large purple cabbage, cored and cut into 1-inch thick slices (about 4-6 steaks)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: caraway seeds or chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Add the cabbage steaks to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the cabbage steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crispy exterior, broil the cabbage steaks for an additional 2-3 minutes after roasting.
– Serve warm as a side dish or use in salads, wraps, or as a topping for burgers.
Purple Cabbage and Quinoa Salad
This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of quinoa with the tangy crunch of purple cabbage, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 head purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and purple cabbage.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa-cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Purple Cabbage Stir-Fry with Ginger
A vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that combines the sweetness of purple cabbage with the spicy warmth of ginger, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the cabbage; stir-fry until slightly wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce; stir-fry to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Purple Cabbage Soup with Lentils
A vibrant and nutritious soup that combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the sweetness of purple cabbage, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Purple Cabbage Wedges
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meal with these easy-to-make grilled purple cabbage wedges. The slightly sweet and smoky flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of purple cabbage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: any desired seasonings or toppings (e.g. garlic powder, chili flakes, crumbled bacon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the cabbage into 8 wedges, removing the core from each wedge.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss the cabbage wedges in the dressing until they are evenly coated.
5. Place the cabbage wedges on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
6. Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with any desired seasonings or toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Purple Cabbage Kimchi
This recipe is a twist on traditional kimchi, using purple cabbage instead of napa cabbage for a deeper, richer flavor. The spicy kick from the Korean chili flakes and garlic will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
- Salt, to taste
- Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced purple cabbage and salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 5 minutes to help release its juices.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes.
- Add the spice mixture to the cabbage and massage everything together until the cabbage is evenly coated.
- Let the kimchi sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours before refrigerating. It will keep for up to a week in the fridge.
Cooking Time: 1 minute (just assemble the ingredients!)
Purple Cabbage and Beetroot Salad
Discover the sweet and tangy combination of purple cabbage and beetroot in this refreshing salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 large beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced purple cabbage and beetroot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and beet mixture, tossing to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Purple Cabbage and Carrot Fritters
Add a pop of color to your plate with these crispy, flavorful fritters packed with the sweetness of purple cabbage and carrots. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, shredded
– 2 large carrots, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the cabbage mixture into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the skillet.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (depending on the size of the fritters). Serve warm and enjoy!
Purple Cabbage Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meal with this unique recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the earthiness of purple cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 medium purple cabbage, shredded
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine shredded purple cabbage, cooked rice, and grated cheese. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the cabbage mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Chickpea Curry
This vibrant curry recipe combines the earthy sweetness of purple cabbage with the creamy richness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a warm and aromatic blend of Indian spices. Perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, shredded
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chickpeas, cabbage, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the curry cook for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Purple Cabbage Wraps with Hummus
These vibrant wraps are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional wraps. Crunchy purple cabbage, creamy hummus, and fresh herbs come together to create a flavorful and nutritious snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, shredded
– 1/2 cup hummus
– 4-6 large lettuce leaves (any variety)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional toppings such as diced veggies, crumbled feta cheese, or sliced avocado
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shredded purple cabbage and hummus. Mix well until the cabbage is evenly coated.
2. Arrange lettuce leaves on a flat surface.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the cabbage-hummus mixture onto each lettuce leaf.
4. Top with chopped parsley and any desired additional toppings.
5. Fold the lettuce leaves to enclose the filling, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, ready in just a few minutes.
Purple Cabbage and Avocado Sushi Rolls
Experience the vibrant flavors of Japan with these unique sushi rolls, featuring purple cabbage and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired sizes for rolling.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface, with the shiny side facing down.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Arrange the purple cabbage and avocado slices horizontally in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using your fingers or a bamboo mat, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Serve with soy sauce and sesame oil for added flavor (optional).
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Walnut Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the sweetness of purple cabbage with the crunch of toasted walnuts, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its bold colors and nutty flavors, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or linguine)
– 1 small head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add sliced purple cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly crunchy.
4. Stir in walnut halves and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with cabbage and walnuts. If necessary, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Pear Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the earthy sweetness of pears with the vibrant flavor of purple cabbage, creating a nutritious and revitalizing beverage perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen purple cabbage
– 1 ripe pear, cored and chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the frozen purple cabbage, chopped pear, Greek yogurt, and honey in a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the unsweetened almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (blending only)
Purple Cabbage and Sweet Potato Hash
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional hash, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tangy crunch of purple cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add purple cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred and crispy.
5. To assemble the hash, combine roasted sweet potatoes with cooked purple cabbage in a bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Tofu Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian option that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch. The combination of sweet purple cabbage, savory tofu, and aromatic spices will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the purple cabbage and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the cabbage and tofu; toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Cranberry Relish
This sweet and tangy relish is a perfect condiment for your holiday gatherings, adding a pop of color and flavor to your plates. Made with purple cabbage, cranberries, and spices, it’s an easy and impressive addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded purple cabbage, cranberries, apple cider vinegar, honey, and grated ginger.
2. Toss until the cabbage is evenly coated with the mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This relish is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with the vibrant purple cabbage! This stunning vegetable has more than just a pretty face – it’s packed with nutrients and can be used in a variety of delicious recipes. From crunchy slaws and hearty soups to savory stir-fries and sweet smoothies, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore 20 healthy and tasty purple cabbage recipes that will add a pop of color and flavor to your meals. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired dishes or classic comfort food, you’ll find inspiration in these vibrant purple cabbage recipes.
