Roasted Cabbage Salad with Miso Vinaigrette

 Roasted Cabbage Salad with Miso Vinaigrette: A Nutritious and Flavor-Packed Delight

When it comes to nutritious, hearty, and flavorful salads, few dishes stand out like the Roasted Cabbage Salad with Miso Vinaigrette. This salad offers a perfect combination of umami-rich flavors, crisp textures, and health-boosting ingredients, making it an ideal addition to any meal or a satisfying stand-alone dish. Whether served warm or cold, this recipe brings a delightful balance of sweetness, saltiness, and tanginess, all wrapped up in a wholesome, plant-based meal.

Why Roasted Cabbage Salad is a Must-Try

Cabbage is often overlooked in salads, but when roasted, it transforms into a caramelized, slightly smoky vegetable with an appealing crisp-tender texture. Combined with a miso vinaigrette, this salad becomes a flavor bomb that's both healthy and satisfying. Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, cabbage is an underrated superfood that deserves a regular spot on your table.

Ingredients for Roasted Cabbage Salad with Miso Vinaigrette

For the Salad:

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, cut into thick wedges

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup roasted almonds, chopped (optional for crunch)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted

• 2 green onions, finely sliced

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional for garnish)

For the Miso Vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons white miso paste

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

• 2 tablespoons warm water, to thin (if needed)

How to Prepare the Best Roasted Cabbage Salad

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Cabbage

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cut the cabbage into thick wedges, ensuring the core stays intact to hold the wedges together.

3. Brush both sides of each wedge with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.

4. Place the cabbage wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced out to allow even roasting.

5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Prepare the Miso Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, combine white miso paste, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger.

2. Whisk vigorously until smooth. If the vinaigrette is too thick, add warm water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Place the roasted cabbage wedges on a serving platter or individual plates.

2. Drizzle generously with the miso vinaigrette, ensuring every layer gets coated.

3. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, roasted almonds, and sliced green onions over the top.

4. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added pop of color and flavor.

The Health Benefits of Roasted Cabbage Salad with Miso Vinaigrette

Rich in Nutrients

Cabbage is loaded with vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and fiber. Roasting enhances its natural sweetness, making it more palatable for those who find raw cabbage too bitter or harsh.

Digestive Health Support

The fermented miso paste in the vinaigrette is an excellent source of probiotics, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Additionally, the fiber content in cabbage supports digestive regularity.

Heart-Healthy Fats

Olive oil and sesame oil add monounsaturated fats that support heart health. These oils, combined with almonds and sesame seeds, offer a dose of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E.

Antioxidant Power

Both cabbage and miso deliver a range of antioxidants, helping to reduce inflammation and protect cells from oxidative stress. The garlic and ginger in the vinaigrette further boost anti-inflammatory properties.

Serving Suggestions

• Main Course: Serve over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal.

• Side Dish: Pairs perfectly with grilled fish, chicken, or tofu.

• Wrap Filling: Chop the roasted cabbage and use it as filling for wraps, along with other roasted vegetables and hummus.

• Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. It tastes delicious cold or reheated.

Customization Options

• Add Protein: Include grilled tempeh, tofu, or shredded chicken for a protein-packed option.

• Vary the Veggies: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes make excellent additions.

• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the vinaigrette for an extra kick.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Cabbage

• Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's space between the wedges for even roasting.

• Use high heat: This caramelizes the natural sugars in the cabbage, creating crispy edges and tender centers.

• Flip carefully: Use a spatula to flip the wedges halfway through cooking to prevent breaking.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180

• Protein: 4g

• Carbohydrates: 14g

• Dietary Fiber: 5g

• Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 1.5g

• Sodium: 430mg

Why We Love This Recipe

The Roasted Cabbage Salad with Miso Vinaigrette is a celebration of simple ingredients brought to life through bold flavors and healthy preparation techniques. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a clean-eating lifestyle. The versatility of this salad means it can be enjoyed year-round, whether as a comforting warm dish in the winter or a refreshing cold salad in the summer. Read more