Garlic Parmesan Cabbage Steaks with Lemon Butter are a simple yet delicious way to elevate humble cabbage into a flavorful and healthy side dish. Roasted to perfection with crispy edges, garlicky Parmesan crust, and a drizzle of tangy lemon butter, these cabbage steaks are sure to impress even non-cabbage lovers. This dish is perfect as a side for any meal or even as a light vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Steaks
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and cut it into 1-inch thick slices (steaks), making sure to keep the core intact so the steaks hold together.
- Arrange the cabbage steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 2: Season the Cabbage
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the garlic oil mixture generously over both sides of the cabbage steaks.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of each cabbage steak.
Step 3: Roast the Cabbage Steaks
- Roast the cabbage steaks in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown, crispy around the edges, and tender in the middle.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter
- While the cabbage is roasting, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the cabbage steaks are roasted, drizzle them with the lemon butter sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cook Notes
- Thickness: Keep the cabbage slices thick to ensure they hold together during roasting. Aim for about 1-inch thick slices.
- Roasting Time: The exact roasting time may vary depending on your oven and the size of the cabbage steaks. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Crispy Edges: For extra crispy edges, you can broil the cabbage steaks for the last 1-2 minutes of roasting.
Variations
- Spicy Cabbage Steaks: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil mixture for a little heat.
- Cheesy Cabbage Steaks: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesier version.
- Balsamic Drizzle: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle the roasted cabbage steaks with balsamic glaze before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe with purple cabbage?
Yes, you can substitute green cabbage with purple cabbage. The flavor will be similar, but the color may change during roasting.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cabbage steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or a skillet to maintain their crispness.
Can I grill cabbage steaks instead of roasting them?
Absolutely! You can grill cabbage steaks over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side until charred and tender. Just be sure to brush them with oil to prevent sticking.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute and use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
What can I serve with garlic Parmesan cabbage steaks?
These cabbage steaks pair well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a vegetarian main like lentils or beans. You can also serve them with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.
Garlic Parmesan Cabbage Steaks with Lemon Butter are an easy and flavorful way to transform a simple vegetable into a standout side dish. With crispy edges, garlicky Parmesan flavor, and a bright lemon butter drizzle, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s healthy, delicious, and pairs well with a variety of main dishes!