Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! This whole roasted cabbage with tahini recipe is a game-changer. It's a vibrant, delicious dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated weekend meal. Forget boring side dishes; this roasted cabbage takes center stage, boasting a caramelized exterior and tender interior, perfectly complemented by a creamy, nutty tahini dressing. It’s a healthy meal, packed with nutrients, and surprisingly quick to prepare. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized whole green cabbage (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added smokiness)
For the Tahini Dressing:
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Preparing the Cabbage:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the core of the cabbage, leaving about an inch at the bottom to hold it together.
- Cut the cabbage in half lengthwise. If the cabbage is particularly large, you can quarter it instead.
- In a large bowl, toss the cabbage halves with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
Roasting the Cabbage:
- Place the cabbage halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. The cooking time might vary depending on the size of your cabbage. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part; it should easily pierce through.
Making the Tahini Dressing:
- While the cabbage is roasting, prepare the tahini dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Add more water, a teaspoon at a time, if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving:
- Once the cabbage is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Drizzle generously with the tahini dressing.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! This delicious dish pairs well with roasted chicken, fish, or even as a hearty vegetarian main course.
Tips and Variations:
- Add some crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans over the roasted cabbage before serving for added texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tahini dressing for a little kick.
- Get creative with herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro would make a wonderful addition. Sprinkle them over the finished dish.
- Different cabbages: Feel free to experiment with other types of cabbage, such as red cabbage or savoy cabbage. The cooking time may need slight adjustments.
- Make it ahead: You can roast the cabbage ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The tahini dressing is best made fresh.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This whole roasted cabbage with tahini is a simple yet impressive recipe that showcases the versatility of this humble vegetable. It's a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with this easy yet flavorful recipe! Enjoy!