Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This vibrant dish combines the crunch of red cabbage with the sweetness of apples and the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors perfect for any meal.
This Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries is not only visually stunning but also brings a medley of flavors to your table. It's an ideal side dish for holiday gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A beautiful and colorful addition to any meal
- Sweet and tangy flavors that pair well with savory dishes
- Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time
The Health Benefits of Red Cabbage
Red cabbage is not only vibrant in color but also packed with nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is crucial for boosting the immune system and maintaining healthy skin. Additionally, red cabbage contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body, promoting overall health.
This cruciferous vegetable is high in fiber, aiding digestion and contributing to a feeling of fullness. Including red cabbage in your diet can support weight management and improve digestive health. With its low calorie count and high nutritional value, it's a fantastic addition to any meal.
Moreover, red cabbage is rich in anthocyanins, the pigments that give it its beautiful color. These compounds have been linked to reduced inflammation and a lower risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Choosing the Right Apples
When making spiced red cabbage, the choice of apples can significantly influence the dish's flavor profile. Opt for apples that balance sweetness with a hint of tartness. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully, providing a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
It's essential to slice the apples thinly, ensuring they cook evenly and meld seamlessly with the cabbage. If you prefer a sweeter dish, consider using Fuji or Gala apples, which will enhance the overall sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
For a unique twist, try incorporating different apple varieties to create a layered taste experience. Mixing sweet and tart apples can add complexity and depth to your spiced red cabbage dish.
Serving Suggestions
Spiced red cabbage with apples and cranberries makes a stunning side dish for various meals. It pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats, such as turkey or pork, adding a colorful and nutritious element to your plate. The sweet and tangy flavors elevate the savory profiles of these dishes, creating a cohesive dining experience.
For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside hearty grains like quinoa or brown rice. The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten up any meal and provide a satisfying, healthy option. This dish also works well as a filling for wraps or stuffed in pita bread, making it versatile for lunches and snacks.
If you're preparing for a special occasion, consider serving spiced red cabbage in a decorative bowl as a centerpiece. Its brilliant hue and aromatic spices will not only enhance your table setting but also impress your guests with its delightful taste.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Spiced Red Cabbage
- 1 medium red cabbage, shredded
- 2 apples, cored and sliced
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine these ingredients for a delicious and nutritious side dish.
Instructions
Sauté the Onion
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Cabbage and Apples
Stir in the shredded red cabbage and apple slices. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage softens.
Mix in Cranberries and Spices
Add the dried cranberries, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld.
Serve warm as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers after preparing your spiced red cabbage, you're in luck! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier on the second or third day.
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to preserve the texture of the cabbage and apples. You can add a splash of water or apple cider vinegar to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
If you want to enjoy the dish later, consider freezing it. While the texture may change slightly upon thawing, it will still be delicious. Freeze in portions for easy meal prep during busy weeks.
Customizing Your Recipe
One of the best aspects of spiced red cabbage is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can add sliced carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. This will give the dish a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the apples and the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
You can also experiment with different spices, such as ginger or cloves, to create a unique flavor profile. Don't hesitate to make this recipe your own by incorporating ingredients you love or have on hand!
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking for a dish that simplifies your meal prep, spiced red cabbage is an excellent choice. It’s easy to make in large batches, and it holds up well in the fridge, making it a convenient option for busy weeks.
You can portion it out into containers for quick lunches or side dishes throughout the week. Pair it with proteins like chicken, tofu, or beans for a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Additionally, this dish can be enjoyed warm or cold, allowing for flexibility in how you serve it. Whether as a side or a main component of your meal, it will always deliver on flavor and nutrition.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before serving.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, especially pork or turkey.
→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the sugar since fresh cranberries are more tart.
→ How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries
This vibrant dish combines the crunch of red cabbage with the sweetness of apples and the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors perfect for any meal.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Spiced Red Cabbage
- 1 medium red cabbage, shredded
- 2 apples, cored and sliced
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the shredded red cabbage and apple slices. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage softens.
Add the dried cranberries, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 2g