This Sautéed Cabbage with Peppers, Corn, and Peas is a simple, colorful, and healthy dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a light main course. The combination of fresh vegetables like cabbage, bell peppers, and tomatoes, along with the sweetness of corn and peas, makes for a hearty and flavorful dish. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and full of vibrant flavors.
Preparation, Cooking, and Total Times:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Cuisine: Vegetarian, Healthy, Comfort Food
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cabbage, shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 170g (5.9 oz) green corn (canned or fresh)
- 170g (5.9 oz) peas (canned or fresh)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Shred the cabbage as thinly as possible.
- Chop the red bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Mince the garlic finely.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Main Vegetables:
- Add the chopped red bell pepper and shredded cabbage to the pan.
- Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the cabbage and peppers start to soften and release their flavors.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Stir well to combine, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to break down.
5. Add Corn and Peas:
- Stir in the green corn and peas (fresh or canned).
- Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender and well combined.
6. Serve:
- Once all the vegetables are cooked through and the flavors are well combined, remove the pan from heat.
- Serve the dish hot as a main course or side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
-
As a Main Dish:
Serve this sautéed vegetable mixture on its own as a light, healthy main course. Pair it with some quinoa or rice for extra protein and fiber. -
As a Side Dish:
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or tofu. It also works well alongside pasta or risotto as a nutritious vegetable side. -
With Fresh Herbs:
Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or basil to add extra flavor and color. -
With a Side of Bread:
Serve with a piece of crusty bread or naan to soak up the juices and make the meal more filling.
Cooking Tips:
-
Cut Vegetables Evenly:
Try to chop the vegetables into similar-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate and ensure an even texture throughout the dish. -
Add a Splash of Lemon:
For a fresh burst of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil at the end of cooking. -
Customize the Veggies:
Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have available. Zucchini, broccoli, or spinach would also be great additions. -
Make It Spicy:
Add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño to bring some heat to the dish. -
Use Fresh or Frozen Corn and Peas:
You can use frozen corn and peas if fresh is unavailable. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the pan.
Variations to Try:
-
With Chickpeas or Beans:
Add some cooked chickpeas or beans for added protein and fiber, turning the dish into a more filling main course. -
Add Tofu or Chicken:
For a protein-packed version, add grilled chicken or cubed tofu to the pan along with the vegetables. -
Spicy Mexican Style:
Add cumin, paprika, and a dash of lime juice for a spicier, Mexican-inspired version of this dish. -
With Coconut Milk:
For a creamy version, add a can of coconut milk along with the tomatoes for a rich, flavorful base.
Conclusion:
This Sautéed Cabbage with Peppers, Corn, and Peas is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s full of nutrients and perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as a main course, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a delicious and satisfying way. Easy to make, customizable with various vegetables and seasonings, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
-
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen corn and frozen peas in this dish. Just be sure to thaw them before adding them to the pan. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. -
Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, you can add grilled chicken, sausage, or bacon to make this dish more filling and add a savory flavor. -
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce to increase the spice level. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It’s even better the next day as the flavors meld together. -
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or spinach to the mix. -
Can I use other types of cabbage?
Yes, you can use Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage as alternatives to regular cabbage for a different texture and flavor. -
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. -
Can I use other spices?
Yes, you can experiment with other spices like cumin, turmeric, or oregano to customize the flavor. -
Can I add cheese to this dish?
Yes, you can sprinkle some cheddar or parmesan cheese on top before serving for an added layer of flavor.