Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries
Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites
This vibrant dish combines the earthy flavor of red cabbage with the sweetness of apples and tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful side that brightens any meal.
This Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic autumn flavor combination. The sweetness of the apples perfectly complements the tart cranberries, while the spices add warmth and depth. It's a perfect addition to any holiday table or a cozy family dinner.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright, festive colors that enhance your table presentation
- A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
- Nutritious and packed with vitamins
- Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time
Perfect for Any Occasion
Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries is not just a side dish; it's a vibrant centerpiece that can elevate any meal. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving feast, a festive holiday gathering, or a simple family dinner, this dish brings a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your table. Its unique combination of sweet and savory notes makes it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both traditional and adventurous palates alike.
This dish is versatile enough to pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as a hearty vegetarian option. The contrasting textures of crunchy cabbage, tender apples, and juicy cranberries create a delightful eating experience that guests will remember. Plus, its eye-catching colors make it a stunning addition to your holiday spread.
Health Benefits of Red Cabbage
Red cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and antioxidants. It's rich in vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system, and vitamin K, essential for bone health. The deep purple hue of red cabbage comes from anthocyanins, antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Incorporating this vibrant vegetable into your meals not only enhances your dishes visually but also boosts their nutritional value.
In addition to its vitamins, red cabbage is high in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. This makes Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying delicious flavors.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best features of Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare this dish a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container, and reheat it gently on the stovetop when you're ready to serve. This makes it an ideal choice for busy hosts looking to streamline their cooking process without sacrificing flavor or quality.
The dish also holds up well, allowing for leftovers that can be enjoyed throughout the week. Serve it cold as a refreshing salad or warm as a comforting side. Its versatility means that it can easily be included in lunchboxes or served alongside various meals, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ingredients for Spiced Red Cabbage
- 1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients well before cooking.
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Cabbage, Apples, and Cranberries
Stir in the shredded cabbage, diced apples, and cranberries. Cook for another 5 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften.
Season the Mixture
Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite meal.
Serving Suggestions
Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries can be served as a side dish or even as a main vegetarian option. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey, pork, or chicken, complementing their savory flavors with its sweetness. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside quinoa or brown rice, adding a protein source to create a balanced plate.
You can also use this dish as a topping for grain bowls or salads, adding a pop of color and flavor that will enhance any meal. Its sweet and tangy profile makes it a fantastic condiment for sandwiches and wraps, taking your lunch to the next level.
Storage Tips
To store Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep or as a side dish for your weeknight dinners. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to do so before adding the apples, as they may become mushy when thawed. Instead, prepare the cabbage and cranberry mixture, freeze it in portions, and then stir in fresh apples when reheating. This method preserves the texture and ensures you have a delightful dish ready to enjoy anytime.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider adding a handful of raisins or a splash of maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness.
You can also experiment with different types of apples; tart varieties like Granny Smith add a refreshing zing, while sweeter options like Fuji or Honeycrisp can enhance the overall sweetness of the dish. Additionally, incorporating nuts such as walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch, making this dish even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving.
→ What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?
You can use white wine vinegar or lemon juice as alternatives.
→ Is this dish vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
→ How long does the leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries
This vibrant dish combines the earthy flavor of red cabbage with the sweetness of apples and tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful side that brightens any meal.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Homestyle Recipe Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Spiced Red Cabbage
- 1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the shredded cabbage, diced apples, and cranberries. Cook for another 5 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften.
Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g