If you’ve been searching for a fresh, delicious way to elevate a humble vegetable, this Grilled Cabbage Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. The smoky char and tender, slightly sweet layers make each bite a satisfying experience, wonderfully enhanced by simple seasonings that let the cabbage’s natural flavor shine. Perfect for a quick weeknight side or a memorable addition to your summer cookout, grilling cabbage transforms this common veggie into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A whole light green cabbage with fresh outer leaves sits on a wooden surface, next to a clear glass bowl holding three small piles of spices in white, beige, and black colors, and beside it is a small clear glass container filled with light yellow oil. The scene is simple, featuring a top-down view with natural lighting on a white marbled texture background photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Keeping things simple is the secret to this Grilled Cabbage Recipe’s success. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance the cabbage’s natural sweetness and bring that perfect balance of savory, smoky, and fresh notes.

1 large head green cabbage: The star of the dish, firm and fresh for perfect grilling.
4 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve those gorgeous grill marks without sticking.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a mild, savory background flavor that complements the cabbage’s sweetness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the depth of flavor with its warm, aromatic presence.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps draw out moisture for a tender texture.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that livens up the dish nicely.
Chopped parsley for serving: A fresh pop of color and brightness to finish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Grilled Cabbage Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Start by removing the damaged outer leaves from your cabbage to ensure each wedge is fresh and tender. Then, slice the cabbage in half, followed by cutting each half into 4 to 6 wedges, making sure to keep the core intact. The core acts like a handle on the grill and helps the wedges hold their shape while cooking.

Step 2: Make the Seasoning Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This simple yet flavorful blend will coat each wedge and give them that perfect savory boost. Brush both sides of the cabbage wedges generously with this mixture to lock in flavor as they grill.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill

Heat your gas grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F. A clean and lightly oiled grill grate is essential to prevent sticking and ensure those beautiful grill marks that add such an appealing smoky flavor.

Step 4: Grill the Cabbage

Place the seasoned cabbage wedges directly onto the grill. Resist the urge to move them too soon — letting them cook undisturbed for 7 to 8 minutes per side allows the cabbage to develop a tender texture and a lovely charred finish. Turn carefully and grill the other side until both sides are perfectly caramelized but not burnt.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the cabbage wedges from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh and vibrant touch that brightens the dish and complements the smoky flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Grilled Cabbage Recipe

Several wedges of bright green cabbage with thick, layered leaves sit on a black grill with glowing orange flames beneath. Each cabbage wedge shows clear char marks, ranging from light brown to dark black, across the outer and inner leaves. The layers are thick and textured, with some parts curling slightly from the heat. There is a white marbled texture behind the grill in soft focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing touches like a scattering of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice add brightness and contrast, balancing the smoky richness of the grilled cabbage. You can also experiment with toasted nuts or crumbled feta cheese for added texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

This grilled cabbage pairs wonderfully with any grilled meats, fish, or even as part of a hearty vegetable platter. Serve alongside roasted potatoes, grilled corn, or your favorite light grain salad to complete a meal that’s full of fresh flavors and satisfying textures.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elevated look, slice the wedges thinner after grilling and create a warm cabbage salad with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a dollop of creamy yogurt sauce. You can also chop the grilled wedges and toss them into tacos or sandwiches for a smoky twist on lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover grilled cabbage, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated as part of a salad or side dish.

Freezing

While you can freeze grilled cabbage, keep in mind that the texture may soften further after freezing and thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the cabbage in a skillet over medium heat or under the broiler for a few minutes to refresh those smoky flavors without drying it out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can sometimes make the texture soggy.

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage for this recipe?

Absolutely! Red cabbage works just as well and will add a beautiful pop of color and slightly earthier flavor when grilled. Just follow the same steps for preparation and grilling.

What if I don’t have a grill? Can I make this recipe indoors?

Yes! You can use a grill pan on your stovetop or even roast the cabbage wedges in the oven at 425°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through until tender and caramelized.

Is it necessary to leave the core attached when cutting the wedges?

Leaving the core intact helps the wedges stay together while grilling, making them easier to handle and preventing them from falling apart. It also allows for a nice grasp when flipping on the grill.

Can I add other spices to the seasoning mix?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for a different flavor profile. The Grilled Cabbage Recipe is flexible and welcomes your personal touch.

How do I know when the cabbage is done grilling?

The cabbage is ready when it’s tender through the layers and has lovely grill marks with a little char without burning. A fork should easily pierce the cabbage, and the exterior will have that smoky, caramelized flavor you’re aiming for.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Cabbage Recipe highlights how something as simple as cabbage can become a standout star on your dinner table with just a bit of attention and love. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable—a perfect recipe to keep in your repertoire for delicious, healthy meals. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Grilled Cabbage Recipe

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This Grilled Cabbage recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to enjoy cabbage with a smoky, charred twist. The cabbage wedges are brushed with a seasoned olive oil blend and grilled until tender and slightly caramelized, making a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or a healthy addition to any meal.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Vegetables

1 large head green cabbage

Seasonings & Oil

4 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

Chopped parsley for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Cabbage: Remove the cabbage’s damaged outer leaves. Cut the cabbage in half, then cut each half into 4 to 6 wedges, making sure to keep the core intact so the wedges hold together during grilling.
Make the Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Brush both sides of each cabbage wedge generously with this mixture, ensuring even coverage.
Preheat the Grill: Heat a gas grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (204°C). Clean the grill grates well and oil them lightly to prevent the cabbage from sticking during cooking.
Grill the Cabbage: Place the cabbage wedges directly on the hot grill grates. Let them cook without moving for about 7 to 8 minutes per side, allowing tenderization and development of nice grill marks without burning.
Serve: Remove the grilled cabbage from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, colorful garnish and serve immediately.

Notes

Keeping the core intact helps the cabbage wedges hold their shape while grilling.
Use a brush or spray to oil the grill grates for easier flipping and to prevent sticking.
Adjust grilling time slightly depending on the heat intensity and thickness of cabbage wedges.
For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving.
This recipe pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.

Grilled Cabbage Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need