Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that's both satisfying and healthy? Look no further! This recipe for Cabbage with Italian Sausage is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of how quick dinner ideas can be both tasty and nutritious, making it a great addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, transforming humble cabbage into a delicious and satisfying meal. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Seasonings
Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook until it starts to wilt, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Simmer and Combine
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the sausage, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Thinly slice the cabbage: Thinly slicing the cabbage ensures it cooks evenly and becomes tender without becoming mushy.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to this recipe.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Use hot Italian sausage for a spicier dish.
- Chicken or Pork: Substitute the Italian sausage with chicken or pork sausage.
- White Cabbage: Use white cabbage instead of green cabbage for a different flavor and texture.
- Add beans: A can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or kidney beans adds extra protein and fiber.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams
This easy and delicious Cabbage with Italian Sausage recipe is a perfect example of a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It's a great addition to your collection of best recipes and a fantastic option for quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights or a simple yet satisfying weekend meal. Enjoy!