Simple Tasty Roasted Cabbage Slices with Cheese
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head cabbage
– 50 ml (about 3–4 tbsp) olive oil
– 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
– Ground black pepper, to taste
– Red pepper flakes (or ground red pepper), to taste
– 1–2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1 tsp smoked or regular paprika (optional)
– 100–150 g shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
– 2–3 tbsp mayonnaise or thick yogurt or mustard (optional — to help the topping adhere)
– Fresh or dried herbs like oregano or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the cabbage:
– Slice the cabbage into thick rounds about 2–3 cm (about ¾–1 inch) thick, leaving a bit of the core intact so each slice holds together. A medium head will give around 6–8 slices.
– Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Make the oil seasoning:
– In a small bowl combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, paprika, and minced garlic (if using). You can add a teaspoon of mustard or mayonnaise to help the mixture stick to the cabbage.
3. Brush the slices:
– Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly oil it.
– Place the cabbage rounds on the sheet and brush the tops and exposed edges generously with the oil mixture.
4. Roast until tender:
– Roast in the oven for 15–20 minutes until the edges begin to brown and the cabbage is becoming tender. (If grilling, preheat the grill and cook 6–8 minutes per side until charred marks appear.)
5. Add topping and cheese:
– Remove the tray from the oven. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise, mustard, or thick yogurt on each slice if desired. Top with shredded cheese and some chopped red bell pepper or green onion if you like. Sprinkle a little extra red pepper flakes or paprika over the cheese for more flavor.
6. Finish roasting:
– Return to the oven and bake (or use the broiler) for another 5–8 minutes until the cheese melts and browns lightly. Watch closely if broiling so it doesn’t burn.
7. Serve:
– Remove from the oven and let rest for 1–2 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs (parsley or basil) and a light squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
– Serve hot as a side dish or light main with a green salad, yogurt‑garlic sauce (tzatziki), or a spicy honey sauce on the side.
