Description
Cabbage Walnut Pasta is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of sautéed cabbage with the crunch of walnuts, all tossed in a delicious olive oil-based sauce. This easy and healthy pasta recipe is a perfect weeknight meal that’s full of texture and flavor. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (about 225g) pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or vegan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, and set aside.
- Sauté the Cabbage and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage and sauté for 7-10 minutes, until it softens and starts to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Toast the Walnuts: In a separate small pan, toast the chopped walnuts over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside.
- Combine the Pasta and Cabbage: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed cabbage. Toss everything together, adding a little bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to help the mixture come together. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with toasted walnuts, grated Parmesan (if using), and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra protein, you can add cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu to the pasta.
- You can use any variety of pasta you prefer, from gluten-free options to whole wheat pasta for a healthier choice.
- If you like a richer flavor, try adding a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a spoonful of pesto before serving.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it great for meal prep or picnics.
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling some nutritional yeast on top as a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 3504
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg