Vegetarian Cabbage Roll Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Looking for a comforting and wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and meat-free? This vegetarian cabbage roll recipe is perfect for cozy dinners, bringing a tasty twist to a classic comfort food favorite.

Packed with a flavorful mixture of rice, mushrooms, herbs, and vegetables, these cabbage rolls are wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply want to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe offers a delicious, nutritious option that everyone will love.

What makes these cabbage rolls so special? The combination of hearty filling with the slight crunch and subtle sweetness of cabbage creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Plus, they’re gluten-free, can be made vegan, and are a great way to sneak in extra veggies. If you’re excited to try something new or want to impress family with a classic dish done differently, this recipe is a must-try.

Let’s dive into all the details to make your next meal memorable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First off, these vegetarian cabbage rolls are incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables, grains, or legumes.

They’re also a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

The recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients like brown rice, mushrooms, and fresh herbs, providing both flavor and nutrition. The cabbage leaves soften beautifully during baking but still hold their shape, making every bite satisfying.

Plus, baking them in a rich homemade tomato sauce adds a tangy, comforting layer that ties everything together.

Lastly, cabbage rolls are a great plant-based alternative to traditional meat versions, making them suitable for vegetarians, vegans (with slight adjustments), and anyone looking to eat more vegetables without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 1 cup brown rice, cooked
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional for crunch)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup vegetable broth

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling cabbage leaves)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or strainer

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and gently separate about 12 large outer leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until flexible but not mushy. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Cook the rice: Cook brown rice according to package instructions until tender. Set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Add chopped mushrooms and grated carrot, cooking until soft and any moisture evaporates (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Mix the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, chopped walnuts (if using), smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
5. Prepare the tomato sauce: In the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the cabbage rolls: Lay one cabbage leaf flat, trim the thick central vein if needed to make rolling easier. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly towards the tip, like a burrito. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
7. Arrange in baking dish: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish, packing tightly but leaving a little space between each. Pour remaining tomato sauce over the rolls.
8. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to slightly brown the tops.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

“Blanching the cabbage leaves just enough to make them pliable is key to rolling without tearing.”

• Vegan option: Ensure no animal-based broth or ingredients are used. Nutritional yeast can be sprinkled in the filling for a cheesy flavor.
• Grain swaps: Try quinoa or bulgur instead of brown rice for different textures and nutritional profiles.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the filling for a little heat.
• Mushroom alternatives: Use cooked lentils or chopped nuts for added protein and texture.
• Make-ahead: Assemble the rolls a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake right before serving.
• Freezing: These rolls freeze beautifully. Store cooked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegetarian cabbage rolls warm with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal. A dollop of plant-based yogurt or sour cream adds a nice creamy contrast to the tomato sauce.

For a heartier dinner, pair with roasted potatoes or a simple vegetable soup like our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating. These rolls also make a fantastic lunch option, easily reheated or enjoyed cold.

Conclusion

This vegetarian cabbage roll recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional dish with a plant-based twist. The combination of wholesome grains, savory vegetables, and aromatic herbs wrapped in tender cabbage leaves makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s perfect any time of year.

Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a dinner party, or meal prepping for the week, these cabbage rolls are easy to make and sure to impress.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings or sauces to suit your tastes. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love exploring other delicious vegetarian dishes like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the comforting Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Happy cooking!

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