Transform your dinner routine with these delicious stuffed cabbage steaks that combine the nutritional benefits of fresh vegetables with satisfying flavors. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe offers a creative twist on traditional cabbage dishes, creating hearty “steaks” that are stuffed with colorful vegetables and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Steaks:
- 1 large head green cabbage (approximately 2-3 lbs / 1-1.5 kg)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian herb seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (approximately 1.5 tablespoons)
For the Vegetable Filling:
- 1 medium red onion, diced
- 1 large carrot, diced (about 1/2 cup / 60g)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
For the Topping:
- 3.5 oz (100g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
For the Garlic Herb Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 medium pickled cucumber, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cabbage Steaks (15 minutes)
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Using a sharp knife, cut the cabbage vertically into thick slices, approximately 1-inch (2.5cm) thick, creating “steaks.” You should get 4-6 steaks depending on the size of your cabbage.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 4: Using a pastry brush, generously coat both sides of each cabbage steak with the olive oil mixture, ensuring the seasoning penetrates between the layers.
Step 5: Arrange the seasoned cabbage steaks on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges begin to caramelize and the cabbage becomes tender.
Preparing the Vegetable Filling (20 minutes)
Step 6: While the cabbage is baking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 7: Add the diced red onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften and become translucent.
Step 8: Add the diced carrot to the skillet and continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 9: Incorporate the diced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until all vegetables are tender but still retain some texture.
Step 10: Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs to the vegetable mixture. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assembling and Final Baking (20 minutes)
Step 11: Remove the cabbage steaks from the oven and let them cool slightly. Carefully separate some of the inner layers to create pockets for the filling, being careful not to break the steaks completely apart.
Step 12: Generously fill each cabbage steak with the sautéed vegetable mixture, distributing it evenly among all the steaks.
Step 13: Top each stuffed cabbage steak with slices or shredded mozzarella cheese, covering the filling completely.
Step 14: Return the stuffed cabbage steaks to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Preparing the Garlic Herb Sauce (5 minutes)
Step 15: While the final baking is in progress, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, diced pickled cucumber, fresh dill, and Italian herbs in a small bowl.
Step 16: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Per Serving (1 stuffed cabbage steak, serves 4):
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Fat: 11g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Vitamin C: 95% DV
- Vitamin K: 120% DV
- Folate: 18% DV
- Calcium: 15% DV
Total Cooking Time: 60 minutes Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 40 minutes Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Nutritional Benefits
Cabbage Advantages: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, cabbage supports immune function and digestive health. The cruciferous vegetable contains compounds called glucosinolates, which may have anti-inflammatory properties and support detoxification processes.
Vegetable Medley Benefits: The combination of colorful vegetables provides a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Carrots supply beta-carotene for eye health, bell peppers offer vitamin C and antioxidants, while red onions provide quercetin and other beneficial compounds.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats that support heart health and help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
Protein Additions
Transform this vegetarian dish into a complete protein meal by adding cooked ground turkey, chicken, or lean beef to the vegetable filling. For plant-based protein options, consider adding cooked lentils, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu seasoned with nutritional yeast.
Cheese Alternatives
While mozzarella provides excellent melting properties, you can experiment with other cheeses such as feta for a Mediterranean flavor, goat cheese for tanginess, or a dairy-free alternative for vegan diets. Sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese also work well for different flavor profiles.
Vegetable Variations
Customize the filling based on seasonal availability and personal preferences. Zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach make excellent additions. For a heartier filling, include diced eggplant or roasted butternut squash.
Seasoning Modifications
Adapt the flavor profile by changing the herb combinations. Try Mediterranean herbs like oregano and thyme, or go for a Mexican-inspired version with cumin, chili powder, and cilantro. Fresh herbs always provide more vibrant flavors than dried versions.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
These stuffed cabbage steaks store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be reheated in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes. For meal prep, you can prepare the vegetable filling up to 2 days in advance and assemble the dish when ready to bake.
The garlic herb sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve over time, making it an excellent make-ahead component.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve these stuffed cabbage steaks as a complete meal with the garlic herb sauce drizzled on top. They pair beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a side of quinoa for additional protein and fiber.
For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve alongside roasted chickpeas, hummus, and warm pita bread. The dish also complements grain bowls or can be served over cauliflower rice for an ultra-low-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe without cheese? Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully without cheese for those following dairy-free or vegan diets. You can substitute the mozzarella with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or simply omit it entirely. The vegetables and seasonings provide plenty of flavor on their own, and you can add extra herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for additional taste.
How do I prevent the cabbage steaks from falling apart? The key to keeping cabbage steaks intact is cutting them thick enough (about 1 inch) and keeping the core section in each steak, which helps hold the layers together. When creating pockets for the filling, gently separate only the inner leaves while leaving the outer structure intact. If a steak does break apart, you can still stuff the pieces and they’ll taste just as delicious.
Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare the vegetable filling up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The cabbage steaks can be pre-baked and stored for 1 day before final assembly. When ready to serve, simply stuff the cabbage, add cheese, and bake for the final 15-20 minutes.
What other vegetables work well in the filling? The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Diced zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach make excellent additions to the filling. Root vegetables like parsnips or turnips can replace carrots, while different colored bell peppers add visual appeal. Always ensure vegetables are diced to similar sizes for even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for weight loss? This recipe is indeed suitable for weight management goals due to its high fiber content, low calorie density, and nutrient density. Each serving provides substantial volume and satisfaction while remaining relatively low in calories. The high fiber content helps promote feelings of fullness, while the vegetables provide essential nutrients that support overall health during weight loss efforts.
This stuffed cabbage steak recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t require sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. By combining nutrient-dense vegetables with aromatic herbs and melted cheese, you create a meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent. The Mediterranean-inspired flavors and colorful presentation make this dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests while maintaining your health goals.