Grilled Cabbage

If you aren't grilling cabbage yet, it's time to start. This simple grilled cabbage made with just four ingredients is seriously so good. The cabbage gets sweet as it cooks and smoky from the grill, and the crispy edges are worth fighting for.

My family absolutely loves grilled cabbage (yes, even the kids)! Plus, you don't have to serve it as is. You can chop it up and use it in recipes that call for cabbage mix for a hint of smoky flavor! Or you can keep it simple and serve it with some Grilled Chicken, Grilled Pork, or Swordfish for an easy outdoor meal.

If you are looking for more grilled veggie options, try these: Grilled Cauliflower, Grilled Bok Choy, Grilled Tomatoes, or Grilled Butternut Squash.

What kind of cabbage can be grilled?

Although this recipe calls for a traditional green cabbage, you can also grill red cabbage and Napa cabbage. Each will have a slightly different flavor, with red cabbage being slightly sweeter and Napa cabbage having an almost celery note. Savoy cabbage can be difficult to grill since the leaves don't stay together quite as well.

Additionally, you can make grilled Brussels sprouts, which are also part of the cabbage family.

How To Grill Cabbage

In just a few steps, you can easily make grilled cabbage.

1. Trim the root: Cut off a small piece from the bottom (root) end of the cabbage, being careful not to cut off too much of the root so the cabbage holds together.
2. Oil and season: Brush both sides with olive oil and season generously with steak or grill seasoning.
3. Slice the cabbage: Place it on a sitting-up cutting board so that the flat end is on the cutting board. Cut top to bottom into 3/4- to 1-inch thick slices to create the steaks. Alternatively, you can cut the cabbage into wedges instead of steaks, though they may take a few more minutes to cook.
4. Grill over medium-high heat: Let the first side cook undisturbed to get a good sear, then flip carefully with a wide spatula.

Can I add other vegetables to the grill at the same time?

Absolutely. Onions, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms all grill well alongside cabbage. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and texture of each veggie.

Recipe Swaps

Here are some ways to change up the recipe to make it your own:

• Seasonings: Any kind of grill seasoning works for this recipe, ideally pepper-based. For something different, try lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or curry powder.
• Oil: I used extra virgin olive oil, but any kind of olive oil will work, as will avocado oil.
• Add cheese: Sprinkle with Parmesan, feta, or blue cheese right after grilling for extra flavor.
• Citrus finish: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the cabbage after grilling to brighten it up.
• Add heat: Drizzle with hot sauce, chili oil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
• Sweet and smoky: Brush with a little maple syrup or BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling for a caramelized edge.
• Add vinegar: Finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar to balance the char with acidity.

How To Eat Grilled Cabbage

Traditionally, I've served grilled cabbage as a side dish with whatever protein I happen to be cooking on the grill. However, you can definitely get more creative when you think of other options for serving grilled cabbage.

• Serve as a Grilled Cabbage Steak for a vegetarian main dish. Drizzle with olive oil and add some crumbled cheese and chopped nuts to make it more substantial. You could even add a few beans for protein.
• Slice up the grilled cabbage to make a smoky version of coleslaw with this yummy grilled cabbage as the base.
• Drizzle the cabbage with some homemade ranch dressing and an extra squeeze of lemon juice.
• Make Cabbage Fried Rice with some eggs, veggies, soy sauce, and ginger, and swap the cabbage mix for grilled cabbage. This will give the fried "rice" a smokier undertone!
• Add some sweetness to the dish and add apple slices to the grill as well. The sweetness of the apple pairs great with the earthiness of the cabbage.
• Add a touch of smoky flavor to Spicy Cabbage and Corn Slaw by using grilled cabbage instead of regular! The smoky flavor pairs super well with the corn, spices, peppers, and zesty lime slaw dressing.
• Toss the grilled cabbage in different types of marinades and vinaigrettes, like balsamic marinade or light Italian dressing! For simple prep, just use the same marinades or spice rubs you are using on the meat.
• Turn into some yummy vegetarian tacos with black beans, guacamole, salsa roja, and queso fresco. Drizzle some lime crema on top for good measure!
• Pair cabbage and bacon for a tasty side dish. Chop up some crispy bacon and add to the grilled cabbage.

How To Store Leftover Grilled Cabbage

If you happen to have leftovers, here's what you should do with them.

• Fridge: Leftover grilled cabbage will keep for 4-5 days in the fridge, though it may lose its crispy texture.
• Freezer: Freeze grilled cabbage for up to 3 months. Note it may not have the same texture when it thaws.
• Thaw: Thaw it in the fridge overnight.
• Reheat: Reheat the cabbage in the oven or under the broiler to crisp it up.
• Leftovers: Chop up leftover cabbage and use it in your favorite coleslaw recipe!