Savory Sautéed Cabbage and Carrots is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that transforms humble vegetables into a vibrant side or standalone meal.
Combining the natural sweetness of carrots and cabbage with aromatic spices like cumin and smoked paprika, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of textures and tastes.
Perfect for busy weeknights or as a versatile side for your favorite proteins, it’s a wholesome addition to any meal.
With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this dish proves that healthy eating can be both easy and delicious!
Ingredients
3 large carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for richer flavor)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
Instructions
Prep the Vegetables:
Start by slicing the cabbage into thin strips. Peel and julienne the carrots or slice them thinly.
Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Cook the Vegetables:
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the oil and aromatics.
Cook for about 5 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften.
Add the julienned carrots to the skillet, and stir to combine with the cabbage.
Sprinkle in the cumin and smoked paprika, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Continue to cook for another 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage and carrots are tender but still have a slight crunch.
Finish and Serve:
Once the vegetables are cooked to your desired texture, remove the skillet from heat.
If you like, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
This versatile dish can be easily adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
For added protein, toss in cooked chickpeas, diced tofu, or crumbled sausage.
Enhance the flavor with a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
If you enjoy heat, include a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
To make it heartier, mix in cooked rice, quinoa, or noodles.
For a touch of sweetness, add raisins or a drizzle of honey.
When cooking, be sure not to over-sauté the vegetables to retain their vibrant color and slight crunch, making the dish both nutritious and visually appealing.
To store Savory Sautéed Cabbage and Carrots, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days, ensuring freshness and flavor.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to revive the texture and flavors, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
If the dish seems dry after reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to restore its moisture.
Savory Sautéed Cabbage and Carrots is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich dish perfect for healthy eating. A typical serving contains approximately 100–120 calories, depending on the amount of oil or butter used.
It’s packed with fiber, promoting digestive health, and provides essential vitamins like Vitamin A from the carrots and Vitamin C from the cabbage.
The dish is low in fat, with about 5–7 grams of healthy fats from the olive oil, and contains 2–3 grams of protein.
For a lower-calorie option, reduce the oil or use a non-stick spray.
This flavorful dish is a wholesome way to add vegetables to your meals!