Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and surprisingly delicious dinner? Look no further! This cabbage and apples recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying meal. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will impress even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is also incredibly versatile, allowing for easy customization to suit your preferences. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended), cored and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Begin by thinly slicing the cabbage, apples, and onion. Aim for consistent sizes to ensure even cooking. The thinner the slices, the faster they’ll cook.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened and slightly translucent.
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Add Cabbage and Apples: Add the sliced cabbage and apples to the skillet. Stir to combine with the onions and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.
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Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Combine and Simmer: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm. This dish is delicious on its own or as a side to grilled chicken, fish, or pork.
Tips for the Best Cabbage and Apples:
- Thin Slicing is Key: Thinly slicing the cabbage and apples ensures even cooking and prevents any parts from becoming overly mushy.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked cabbage can become bitter. Aim for tender-crisp cabbage, still retaining a slight bite.
- Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple varieties. The sweetness and acidity of the apple will influence the overall flavor of the dish.
- Add Some Spice: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Variations:
- Add Protein: Include cooked bacon, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar to the dressing for extra sweetness.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage.
- Caramelized Onions: For a deeper flavor, caramelize the onions before adding the cabbage and apples.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. The combination of sweet apples and savory cabbage creates a delicious dish that is both satisfying and good for you. It's a perfect example of how simple homemade cooking can produce truly delicious results. Enjoy!