Air Fryer Cabbage Wedges
Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls in love with bold, simple flavors, this recipe is the answer. My kitchen memories always include my abuela’s cabbage simmering away with spices, but today we’re giving it a modern twist: Air Fryer Cabbage Wedges. They’re crispy on the edges, tender in the middle, and full of smoky, garlicky flavor. Whether you’re looking for cabbage as a side dish, easy keto veggie sides, or just a yummy vegetable side that takes under 15 minutes, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. It’s healthy, fast, and pairs beautifully with just about any meal.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American, Mexican-inspired |
| Best Season | All year round |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy side dish fast.
- Healthy and Low Carb: With minimal oil and fresh cabbage, it’s an easy keto veggie side that works for many diets.
- Crispy and Flavorful: The air fryer makes the edges beautifully crispy while the inside stays soft and tender.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve it with proteins, salads, grains, or even roasted veggies. It truly goes with everything.
- Budget-Friendly: Cabbage is one of the most affordable veggies, making this dish healthy, tasty, and wallet-friendly.
Crispy Air Fryer Cabbage Wedges
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Air Fryer Cabbage Wedges are crispy on the edges and tender in the middle. Healthy, easy to make, and ready in just 15 minutes. A perfect low-carb, keto-friendly side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb green cabbage
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Cut cabbage into 4 equal wedges, each about 1 inch thick.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush seasoning mixture onto both sides of cabbage wedges.
4. Arrange wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until edges are crispy and centers are tender.
6. Serve hot, with optional garnish of parsley, cilantro, or dill.
Notes
Cut wedges evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Cook in batches if using a smaller air fryer.
Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
Add fresh herbs, lemon juice, or Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wedge
- Calories: 138
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 831mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 13g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Ingredients
- 1 lb green cabbage
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient Tips
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Green cabbage | Use about half a medium head of cabbage, cut into 1-inch wedges. |
| Olive oil | Extra-virgin gives a richer flavor, but avocado oil works too. |
| Whole grain Dijon mustard | Adds texture and tang. Smooth Dijon or spicy brown mustard are good swaps. |
| Apple cider vinegar | Balances flavors with acidity. White wine vinegar also works. |
| Garlic powder | Provides a mild garlic kick. Fresh minced garlic can be used for stronger flavor. |
| Smoked paprika | Adds a smoky depth. Regular paprika is milder if you prefer. |
| Sea salt | Fine sea salt seasons evenly. Adjust to taste. |
| Black pepper | Freshly cracked gives the best flavor. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut the cabbage: Slice the cabbage into 4 equal wedges, each about 1 inch thick. Keep extra cabbage for another recipe.
- Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Season the wedges: Brush the seasoning mix generously on both sides of the cabbage wedges.
- Air fry the cabbage: Place wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until crispy on the edges and tender inside. No need to preheat.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve hot as is, or garnish with parsley, cilantro, or dill for extra freshness.
Helpful Tips
- Cut wedges evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
- Use parchment liners for easy cleanup.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Check halfway: Flip wedges halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- Season generously: Cabbage absorbs flavor, so don’t be shy with seasoning.
- Add garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens up the final dish.
- Adjust cooking time: Some air fryers cook hotter, so keep an eye on them.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Cabbage Wedges: Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle Parmesan or nutritional yeast after air frying.
- Asian-Inspired: Brush with soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger instead of Dijon.
- Lemon Herb Version: Swap vinegar with lemon juice and add fresh thyme or rosemary.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can cut and season the cabbage wedges ahead of time, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Leftover wedges store in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheating in the air fryer restores crispiness, while freezing is not recommended since cabbage becomes watery after thawing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy wedges alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or roasted tofu. They also pair well with fresh salads or hearty grain bowls. For presentation, arrange wedges on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs.
Pairing Ideas
- Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon.
- Sides: Complement with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, or a fresh cucumber salad.
- Protein: Perfect with grilled steak, shrimp skewers, or baked chickpeas.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until hot and crispy. For stovetop reheating, warm in a nonstick skillet with a splash of oil. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the cabbage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage works too, though the flavor is slightly earthier and the color deepens as it cooks.
2. Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
No preheating is necessary, which saves time and keeps this recipe extra quick.
3. Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Yes, you can omit the oil, but the cabbage won’t crisp up as much. A light spray of cooking oil is a good compromise.
4. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute with yellow mustard, spicy brown mustard, or even a bit of tahini for creaminess.
5. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. With very few carbs and no added sugars, it’s one of the best healthy side dishes low carb eaters can enjoy.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. The seasoning mixture can easily be doubled.
7. How do I know when the cabbage is done?
The edges should look crispy and golden, while the center should feel tender when pierced with a fork.
Make your menu complete with this Smashburger Quesadillas.
Nutrition Information
| Serving Size | 1 wedge |
|---|---|
| Calories | 138 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Fiber | 13g |
| Sugar | 15g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Cabbage Wedges prove that simple ingredients can create a side dish that’s crispy, healthy, and full of flavor. Try them for your next meal, and you’ll have a new favorite veggie recipe that works with everything from steak to salad bowls.
