From slaws to fermented fixes like sauerkraut and kimchi, here’s to the cabbage craze! This special member of the cruciferous family has been on an uptrend, gaining popularity for its numerous health benefits and versatility in the kitchen. Discover the many health benefits of cabbage, and try these healthy and delicious DIY recipes that will make you want to join the cabbage craze.

Packed with nutrients, cabbage is a great source of vitamins C, K and B6 as well as folate, manganese and fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, promoting bone health and aiding in digestion. Cabbage is also low in calories and high in water content, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight and stay hydrated.

But, the benefits of cabbage don’t just stop at its nutritional value. Cabbage is also incredibly diverse and versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. From salads and stir-fries to soups and stews, there are countless ways to incorporate cabbage into your meals from mild to super spicy.

Delicious and Nutritious Cabbage-Crazed Recipes

Cabbage and Crisp Apple Salad

Ingredients

1 head of cabbages, green or red, shredded or diced

2 carrots, shredded or matchstick

1-2 apples (any kind), diced 

½ cup chopped red onion

½ cup chopped celery

½ cup nuts or seeds of choice (walnuts, pecans, cashews, sunflower seeds)

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (curly or Italian flat leaf)

¼ cup olive or other plant-based oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon garlic powder and lemon pepper (optional)

1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)

Honey or a few drops of stevia (to taste)

Salt and pepper (to taste)

Fresh juice of half a lemon, or a few wedges of lemon to freshen before serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, apples, red onion, celery, nuts/seeds and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, lemon pepper, caraway seeds, salt/pepper and honey/stevia (optional). 
3. Pour dressing over the salad; toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately or chill for later. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice to maintain freshness.

Cabbage Tomato Lentil Soup

Ingredients

1 head green cabbage, chopped or diced

Pre-rinsed dried lentils (or pre-cooked)

½ to 1 can stewed tomatoes or 2 tomatoes, diced 

1 bell pepper, diced 

3 to 4 sweet peppers, diced 

2 to 3 jalapeños or habaneros (depending on preferred spiciness)

1 onion or leek, chopped

2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced

2 to 3 sprigs fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried oregano, chopped

3 to 4 sprigs fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, chopped

1 bay leaf

4 cups vegetable, chicken, beef or bone broth

½ cup water (or tea of choice for added antioxidant-rich health benefits)

2 to 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper (to taste)

Paprika or cayenne pepper; chili and/or cumin (optional)

Sour cream/guacamole (optional)

Shredded or grated cheese (cheddar, Monterey or pepper jack) (optional)

Green onions/scallions or cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Add broth and water/tea to a pot and bring to a boil. If dried, pre-rinse lentils, boil until softened, then reduce heat and simmer. 
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the cabbage, peppers, onion/leek, garlic, oregano, thyme and bay leaf together. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 3 to 5 minutes. Drizzle in Worcestershire or balsamic vinegar. 
3. Add sauteed mix of veggies and herbs, gradually reduce heat and simmer. 
4. Additional spice suggestions – paprika or cayenne pepper for lovers of the spicy, chili, and/or cumin powders (optional). Add salt/pepper to taste. 
5. Serve hot with options of a dollop of sour cream/guacamole, shredded or grated cheese and chopped green onions/scallions. 

So, why not join the cabbage craze and reap the health benefits while enjoying delicious meals? Say goodbye to boring, bland vegetables, and say hello to the versatile and nutritious cabbage.