Elevate your Southern comfort food game with a Mediterranean-inspired twist in this "Mediterranean Diet Southern Fried Cabbage" recipe. Combining the rustic charm of classic Southern fried cabbage with heart-healthy ingredients, this dish swaps traditional fats for extra virgin olive oil and layers bold flavors with a vibrant blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions add a colorful, savory touch, while fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice brighten each bite. Ready in just 35 minutes, this quick and nutrient-packed recipe is the perfect side dish or plant-based main course for anyone embracing the Mediterranean diet. Nutritious, delicious, and easy to prepare, it's a wholesome twist on a traditional favorite that will bring Mediterranean flair to your table.
Core and shred the head of cabbage into thin strips. Rinse under cold water and allow to drain.
Mince the garlic cloves, dice the onion, and slice the red bell pepper into thin strips.
In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and red bell pepper to the skillet, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the shredded cabbage, mixing well to combine with the vegetables and oil.
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, sea salt, and ground black pepper over the cabbage. Toss well to distribute the spices evenly.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but retains a slight crunch.
Turn off the heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley and lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm as a side dish or plant-based main course.
Calories |
737 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.9 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1928 mg | 84% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 85.5 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.1 g | 108% | |
| Total Sugars | 40.4 g | ||
| Protein | 17.0 g | 34% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 464 mg | 36% | |
| Iron | 6.7 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 2258 mg | 48% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.