Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage with Lemon Butter Recipe
Introduction
Are you looking for an easy and delicious side dish that will impress everyone at the dinner table? Look no further than Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage with Lemon Butter! This recipe transforms a humble cabbage into a savory, tender delight, bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for family meals, gatherings, or anyone wanting to boost their vegetable intake.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only simple but also nutritious. Cabbage is packed with vitamins and fiber, and with the addition of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon, it becomes incredibly tasty. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other dishes or relax. Plus, it’s a great way to serve a whole vegetable in a new and exciting way!
How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage
Ingredients:
- 1 medium whole cabbage
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Place the whole cabbage in the slow cooker.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon zest, juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the butter mixture over the cabbage in the slow cooker.
- Pour the vegetable broth around the cabbage.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the cabbage is tender.
- Once cooked, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage
Serve your Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage as a side dish alongside meats, pastas, or your favorite grain dishes. You can cut it into wedges for easy serving. Adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top can make it even more delightful!
How to Store Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage
If you have leftovers, let the cabbage cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or heat it gently on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Whole Cabbage
- For a richer flavor, try using flavored vegetable broth or add a splash of white wine to the broth.
- If you prefer a bit of heat, include red pepper flakes in the garlic butter mixture.
- If you don’t have a whole cabbage, you can use cabbage wedges and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding other seasonings or ingredients. Consider tossing in some sautéed onions, roasted red peppers, or even cooked bacon for additional flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or cheddar, but Parmesan adds a unique savory taste that pairs nicely with the cabbage and lemon.
2. How do I know when the cabbage is done cooking?
The cabbage is done when it is fork-tender. If you can easily pierce it with a fork, it’s ready to enjoy!
3. Can I cook this recipe on high heat instead of low?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook the cabbage on high for about 2-3 hours, but the low and slow method helps to develop deeper flavors.
4. Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
You can make this recipe vegan by using plant-based butter and omitting the cheese, or replacing it with a vegan cheese.
Enjoy your cooking, and enjoy your meal!
