All Recipes Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls for Healthy Meals

If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty, and wholesome dish that’s entirely plant-based, vegetarian cabbage rolls are a fantastic choice. This recipe beautifully combines tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, vegetables, and savory spices, all baked in a rich tomato sauce.

It’s a classic comfort food that’s perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more meatless meals into your diet, these cabbage rolls deliver on taste, texture, and nutrition.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, cabbage rolls are versatile enough for you to customize with your favorite vegetables or grains.

In this post, I’ll guide you through making delicious vegetarian cabbage rolls that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian cabbage rolls are a wonderful dish for many reasons. First, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures — the soft, tender cabbage contrasts beautifully with the hearty filling inside.

This meal is nutrient-dense, packed with fiber and plant-based protein, making it both satisfying and good for you.

Additionally, these cabbage rolls are an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare them in advance and bake when ready, making them ideal for meal planning or entertaining guests.

They also freeze well, which means you can enjoy this comforting classic anytime with minimal effort.

Lastly, the recipe is adaptable. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Whether you want to make it gluten-free, add more protein with beans or lentils, or spice things up, this recipe welcomes your creativity.

Ingredients

• 1 large green cabbage (about 2-3 pounds)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Optional: 1/2 cup cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein

Equipment

• Large pot (for blanching cabbage leaves)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
• Aluminum foil (for covering while baking)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully core the cabbage and gently separate about 12 large leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Cook the rice: In a separate pot, cook the rice according to package instructions until just tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the grated carrot and mushrooms, cooking another 5 minutes until tender.
4. Combine the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes, parsley, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional lentils or chickpeas. Mix well to evenly distribute flavors.
5. Assemble the rolls: Place a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling into the center near the base. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the base to the tip to enclose the filling. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. Prepare the baking dish: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish snugly.
7. Add sauce and broth: Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls, then carefully pour the vegetable broth around the rolls (not directly on top to avoid unrolling).
8. Bake the rolls: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes until the cabbage is tender and flavors meld.
9. Rest and serve: Remove from oven and let the rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle and makes them easier to handle.

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: To soften your cabbage leaves faster, you can also microwave the whole head for 4-5 minutes before peeling off the leaves. This saves time compared to blanching.

Feel free to experiment with the filling ingredients. You can substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier grain option.

Adding cooked lentils or crumbled tofu boosts the protein content. For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the filling mixture.

If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in some shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream inside the filling or on top before baking. For a gluten-free version, just ensure your tomato sauce and broth do not contain any gluten additives.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian cabbage rolls make a hearty main dish, but pairing them with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted root vegetables for added texture and flavor contrast.

For a more indulgent meal, drizzle with a dollop of sour cream or a splash of tangy yogurt. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also pair nicely, soaking up the delicious tomato sauce.

Looking for more plant-based inspiration? Check out our Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes for a quick noodle dish or try the Zucchini Peppers Onions Tomatoes Recipe for a vibrant veggie medley.

Conclusion

These vegetarian cabbage rolls are a delightful and nutritious meal that showcases how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. The tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory, flavorful filling make each bite comforting and satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, batch cooking, or impressing guests with a wholesome, homemade dish.

By preparing these rolls, you’re not only enjoying a delicious meal but also embracing a nutritious lifestyle with plenty of vegetables, fiber, and plant-based protein. Plus, the versatility of the recipe means you can tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

I hope you give this recipe a try and find it as comforting and delicious as I do!

For more tasty recipes to round out your meal plans, explore the Breakfast Wellington Recipe for a savory start to your day or the rich and flavorful Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe if you want to indulge in a meat dish.

And if you love exploring unique dishes, the Bluebill Duck Recipes offer exciting flavors and techniques.

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