Cabbage sautéed with pasta

Sautéed cabbage with pasta – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Sautéed cabbage is a traditional dish that evokes the simple flavors of childhood, a meal that has enjoyed popularity in various cultures. This sautéed cabbage with pasta recipe is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a quick and hearty dinner. Whether you're preparing it for a fasting meal or simply want to enjoy a healthy dish, this recipe will delight you.

Ingredients

- 1 fresh cabbage or sour cabbage (about 1 kg)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- A small bunch of fresh dill (or 1-2 tablespoons of dried dill)
- 1-2 tablespoons of fresh or dried thyme
- 200 ml tomato puree
- 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 250 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)

Necessary utensils

- A large skillet or wok
- A pot for pasta
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spatula
- A sieve or strainer

Preparation instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onion. Chop it finely for even sautéing. The cabbage should be washed well and sliced into thin strips. If using sour cabbage, make sure to rinse it lightly to reduce acidity, but do not overdo it to keep its flavor.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is essential as sautéed onion adds a sweet flavor to your dish.

3. Adding the paprika: Once the onion is ready, add the sweet paprika and mix well. This will add a beautiful color and delicious aroma. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the paprika.

4. Incorporating the cabbage: Now it's time to add the sliced cabbage. Mix well so that the cabbage combines with the sautéed onion. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sauté over medium heat for 10-15 minutes. It's important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Adding the tomatoes and spices: Chop the tomatoes into cubes and add them over the cabbage. Add the dill and thyme, mixing well. All the flavors will combine, and the dish will acquire a special taste.

6. Adding water: Pour enough water to cover the cabbage. Cover the skillet again and let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. I advise checking the water level and adding more if necessary.

7. Finalizing the cabbage: When the cabbage is almost cooked (about 20 minutes), remove the lid and let the liquid reduce. Add the tomato puree, salt, and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes.

8. Cooking the pasta: Meanwhile, boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. When al dente, drain well.

9. Mixing the pasta with the cabbage: After the cabbage is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix well to coat it with the delicious flavors of the cabbage. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Useful tips

- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to add color and nutrients. Additionally, you can use whole grain pasta for added fiber.
- Serving: This sautéed cabbage with pasta is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a squeeze of lemon juice on top or with Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Perfect pair: A summer salad with tomatoes and cucumbers or a refreshing lemonade are ideal accompaniments to complete this meal.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage is a very healthy vegetable, rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (calcium, iron). It is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for diets. The pasta complements the carbohydrate intake, providing long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use pickled cabbage? Yes, pickled cabbage adds a tangy note to the dish, but it's good to rinse it lightly to reduce the salt.
- How can I store leftovers? They can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
- Is this dish suitable for vegans? Absolutely! This recipe is excellent for vegans, as long as you use egg-free pasta.

Conclusion

Sautéed cabbage with pasta is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines fresh and traditional ingredients. It is an excellent way to encourage vegetable consumption, offering a hearty and aromatic meal. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by authentic memories and flavors!