It is 6pm and you need a healthy side dish fast. There is something magical about the smell of roasted cabbage on a crispy fall evening. These Air Fryer Cabbage Wedges transform a simple vegetable into a star.
You will love how the edges get golden and sweet. This recipe delivers a satisfying crunch without any stress. It is the perfect way to add more greens to your plate. Your whole family will actually ask for seconds of these veggies.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is a total game-changer for busy home cooks. It is incredibly budget-friendly and uses simple pantry staples. You get that oven-roasted flavor in half the time. It is a fantastic choice for a healthy reset after a long week.
The air fryer creates textures that a standard oven cannot match. The outer leaves become thin and crispy like chips. Meanwhile, the center stays buttery and tender. It is a delicious way to enjoy high-fiber vegetables every day.
Simple Method
Making these wedges is a very straightforward process. You simply slice the cabbage and whisk a quick oil mixture. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this. The air fryer does all the hard work for you tonight.
The key is keeping the core intact while you slice. This ensures the leaves do not fall apart during cooking. You will have a beautiful side dish ready in under 30 minutes. It is truly a fail-proof recipe for any night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are likely already sitting in your kitchen right now. Fresh, seasonal cabbage is the star of the show here.
- 1 medium head green cabbage (approximately 2 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Directions
- Remove any damaged or loose outer leaves from the cabbage and rinse under cold water.
- Cut the cabbage into 1-inch thick wedges, ensuring the core remains intact to hold the leaves together.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a pastry brush, coat both sides of each cabbage wedge thoroughly with the oil and spice mixture.
- Arrange the wedges in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping each wedge halfway through the cooking time, until the edges are charred and the core is fork-tender.
- Serve immediately as a side dish.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these wedges warm while they are at their peak crispiness. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken or a juicy steak. You can also drizzle them with balsamic glaze for extra zing. They make a wonderful addition to a cozy fall dinner.
For a complete meal, serve them alongside some fluffy quinoa. Set the table, light a candle, and enjoy this guilt-free comfort food. It is a simple way to make weeknight meals feel special. Your body will thank you for the extra nutrients.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To keep the texture, avoid using the microwave for reheating. Instead, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F. Heat for 3-5 minutes until they are hot and crispy again.
Tips for Best Results
- Keep the core attached so the wedges stay in one piece.
- Do not overcrowd the basket to ensure the air can circulate.
- Use a pastry brush to get the oil into every crevice.
- Flip the wedges carefully halfway through to avoid breaking them.
- Choose a heavy cabbage head for the freshest flavor and texture.
- Adjust the cook time based on how charred you like your edges.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vegan twist.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Top with fresh lemon zest right before serving for brightness.
- Try using red cabbage for a beautiful pop of color.
Common Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can slice and season the cabbage a few hours early. However, they are best served fresh from the air fryer. This ensures you get that signature crispy texture on the edges.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, cabbage is a wonderful low-carb vegetable for keto diets. These wedges are naturally low in calories and high in fiber. They are a great alternative to starchy side dishes.
I hope these crispy wedges become a staple in your busy kitchen. They make healthy eating feel like a real treat during the week. Happy cooking!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage (approximately 2 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Remove any damaged or loose outer leaves from the cabbage and rinse under cold water.
- Cut the cabbage into 1-inch thick wedges, ensuring the core remains intact to hold the leaves together.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a pastry brush, coat both sides of each cabbage wedge thoroughly with the oil and spice mixture.
- Arrange the wedges in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping each wedge halfway through the cooking time, until the edges are charred and the core is fork-tender.
- Serve immediately as a side dish.
