Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries
Highlighted under: Wholesome & Clean Eating
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of spiced red cabbage complemented by sweet apples and tart cranberries. This dish is perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful side for any meal.
This spiced red cabbage dish combines the earthy flavor of cabbage with the sweetness of apples and the tartness of cranberries, creating a perfect balance that enhances any meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
- Vibrant colors that brighten up any plate
- Healthy and nutritious, packed with vitamins
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days
The Perfect Festive Side Dish
Spiced red cabbage with apples and cranberries is a dish that truly embodies the spirit of festive gatherings. Its vibrant colors and delightful aroma make it a centerpiece on any holiday table. Whether you are celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply enjoying a family dinner, this dish brings warmth and cheer to your meal. The combination of sweet apples and tart cranberries not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a beautiful contrast to the rich, deep color of the red cabbage.
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, making it an ideal accompaniment to turkey, ham, or even a hearty vegetarian main course. Its versatility allows it to complement a variety of cuisines, ensuring that it will be a hit with your guests. Plus, the health benefits of red cabbage, rich in vitamins C and K, make it a nutritious choice that everyone can feel good about.
A Healthy Addition to Your Diet
Incorporating spiced red cabbage with apples and cranberries into your diet is a fantastic way to boost your nutrient intake. Red cabbage is known for its high levels of antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. Combined with the fiber from apples and the vitamin C from cranberries, this dish is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables is essential for maintaining overall health, and this recipe checks all the boxes.
Moreover, this dish is naturally low in calories and can fit seamlessly into any diet plan. Whether you are watching your weight or simply looking to eat healthier, spiced red cabbage is a smart choice. It’s satisfying and filling, making it easier to resist less healthy options that may tempt you during mealtime.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the standout features of this spiced red cabbage recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. The sautéing process brings out the natural sweetness of the onions and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. In just a few steps, you can have a warm, comforting side ready to serve.
Additionally, this dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or large gatherings. Prepare it a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and simply warm it up before serving. This convenience means you can spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family rather than being tied to the stove.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 apples, cored and sliced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Sauté the Onion
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Cabbage
Add the sliced red cabbage to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 10 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften.
Incorporate Apples and Cranberries
Add the sliced apples and cranberries to the pot. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper.
Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes until everything is tender and flavors meld together.
Enjoy Your Dish!
Serving Suggestions
Spiced red cabbage can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a flexible option for any meal. For an extra touch of flavor, consider garnishing it with toasted walnuts or pecans before serving. This adds a delightful crunch and complements the soft texture of the cabbage and fruits beautifully. Pair it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an added layer of taste.
This dish also works well as a filling in wraps or as a topping for grain bowls. Its sweet and savory profile makes it a versatile ingredient that can elevate many dishes. You can even enjoy it as a light lunch option on its own, served alongside whole grain bread or a fresh salad.
Storage Tips
To store leftover spiced red cabbage, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious on the second day.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the cabbage into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a convenient option for quick meals during busy weeks.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different fruits or spices to suit your taste. Pears can be a delightful substitute for apples, adding a unique twist to the flavor profile. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the sautéed onions for a spicy kick.
You can also include additional vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, so don’t hesitate to make it your own and enjoy the process of creating a signature version that your family will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
→ Is it possible to use green cabbage instead?
While you can use green cabbage, the flavor and color will differ from using red cabbage.
→ What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with roasted meats, especially pork and turkey.
→ How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of spiced red cabbage complemented by sweet apples and tart cranberries. This dish is perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful side for any meal.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Wholesome & Clean Eating
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 apples, cored and sliced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the sliced red cabbage to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 10 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften.
Add the sliced apples and cranberries to the pot. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper.
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes until everything is tender and flavors meld together.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g