Steamed Cabbage & Veggies: A Simple, Flavorful Side Dish
Steamed Cabbage & Veggies is a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish made with fresh cabbage, carrots, garlic, and thyme. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals, this easy dish is ready in just 20 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Steamed Cabbage & Veggies is a nutritious, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that pairs well with almost any meal. Whether you're looking for a light side dish, a way to incorporate more veggies into your diet, or a comforting Southern-style cabbage dish, this recipe checks all the boxes.
The combination of sweet carrots, savory onions, aromatic thyme, and tender cabbage creates a beautifully balanced dish. Plus, steaming the vegetables retains their nutrients while allowing the flavors to meld together. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a healthy addition to your holiday table!
Ingredients Breakdown
Each ingredient in this recipe contributes to its depth of flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look:
Cabbage (½ head, sliced) – Cabbage is mildly sweet and takes on the flavors of the other ingredients beautifully. It also provides fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Carrots (2-3 large, peeled and sliced) – Add natural sweetness and a slightly crunchy texture that softens as it steams.
Roma Tomato (1, diced) – Provides a hint of acidity and richness, helping to enhance the overall flavor.
Yellow Onion (1, diced) – Adds a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the cabbage and carrots.
Garlic (5-6 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic intensifies the flavor and adds a rich, aromatic touch.
Green Onions (4, chopped) – Brightens the dish with a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
Thyme (4-5 sprigs) – Adds earthy, slightly minty notes that complement the sweetness of the cabbage.
Water (2 tbsp) – Helps to create steam to soften the vegetables without making them mushy.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Enhances the flavors and prevents sticking.
Butter (4 tbsp) – Adds a rich, silky texture and enhances the taste.
Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Balances and brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
How to Make Steamed Cabbage & Veggies
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil & Butter
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once warm, add the butter and let it melt completely.
Step 2: Cook the Onions & Carrots
Add diced yellow onions and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the carrots begin to soften.
Step 3: Add Garlic & More Vegetables
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Then, add chopped green onions, diced tomato, and sliced cabbage. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
Step 4: Steam the Cabbage
Pour in 2 tablespoons of water and add the thyme sprigs. Cover the pot and let the cabbage steam for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Season & Serve
Uncover the pot, season with salt and pepper to taste, and give everything a final stir. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Steamed Cabbage & Veggies
Don’t overcook the cabbage – It should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on it while steaming.
Use fresh thyme for the best flavor – If using dried thyme, reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.
Add a splash of broth – Instead of water, use vegetable or chicken broth for added depth.
Customize with other veggies – Bell peppers, zucchini, or even green beans can be added for variety.
Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a little butter or olive oil.
Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the butter for more olive oil or plant-based butter.
What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, rice, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.
How do I keep my cabbage from getting soggy?
Make sure not to overcook it and stir occasionally so that all the vegetables cook evenly without sitting in too much liquid.
This Steamed Cabbage & Veggies recipe is a simple, flavorful way to enjoy fresh vegetables. Whether you’re making it as a side dish or a light main course, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Steamed Cabbage & Veggies
Steamed Cabbage & Veggies is a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish made with fresh cabbage, carrots, garlic, and thyme. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals, this easy dish is ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- Cabbage (½ head, sliced)
- Carrots (2-3 large, peeled and sliced)
- Roma Tomato (1, diced)
- Yellow Onion (1, diced)
- Garlic (5-6 cloves, minced)
- Green Onions (4, chopped)
- Thyme (4-5 sprigs)
- Water (2 tbsp)
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
- Butter (4 tbsp)
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once warm, add the butter and let it melt completely.
- Add diced yellow onions and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the carrots begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Then, add chopped green onions, diced tomato, and sliced cabbage. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of water and add the thyme sprigs. Cover the pot and let the cabbage steam for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Uncover the pot, season with salt and pepper to taste, and give everything a final stir. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how you liked it! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @cooksnapbake with your photos!
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