These crispy air fryer cabbage wedges are a fun and tasty side dish! They’re seasoned well and come out with a golden-brown color that makes them hard to resist.
Honestly, who knew cabbage could be this exciting? I like to dip mine in a little ranch dressing for extra flavor. Give it a try, and you might just fall in love with veggies again! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: A medium head of green cabbage is perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find green cabbage, you could use savoy or purple cabbage for a different color and texture. Just keep in mind that purple cabbage can change the color of your dish!
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you can replace it with cooking spray. Alternatively, avocado oil is a great substitution because it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor.
Garlic Powder: I love garlic powder for its convenience, but fresh minced garlic can add a stronger flavor. Use one clove of garlic for each 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder if you’re looking to switch it up!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy taste without using cheese. Alternatively, you can leave it out entirely for a lighter option.
How Do You Get Crispy Cabbage Wedges in the Air Fryer?
Getting crispy cabbage wedges is all about the right temperature and cooking time. Here’s how to make sure they’re perfect:
- Preheat your air fryer! This step is crucial to kickstart the crispiness.
- Cut the cabbage into wedges, leaving the core intact. This helps keep the wedges sturdy during cooking.
- Don’t skimp on the oil! A light brushing ensures even browning and crisping.
- Space the wedges out! If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of crisp.
- Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning. Check them to avoid burning and adjust cooking time if needed.
With these tips, you’re on your way to enjoying delicious, crispy cabbage wedges that everyone will love!
How to Make Air Fryer Cabbage Wedges
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
- Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook. So, in about 20 minutes, you can have delicious and crispy cabbage wedges ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your cabbage cooks evenly and gets that nice crispiness we’re looking for.
2. Prepare the Cabbage:
Remove any loose or damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Now, slice the cabbage into 4 to 6 wedges. Make sure to keep the core intact in each wedge; it helps hold everything together during cooking.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a delicious seasoning mix!
4. Season the Wedges:
Brush the seasoning mixture generously over all sides of each cabbage wedge. Don’t be shy; the more flavor, the better!
5. Add Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the wedges. This will add a lovely cheesy crust while they cook.
6. Air Fry the Wedges:
Place the cabbage wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on how big your air fryer is, you might need to do this in batches. Air fry for about 12-15 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges, and tender inside.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the wedges from the air fryer. Garnish them with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately alongside lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch dressing for added flavor!
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful air-fried cabbage wedges as a delightful and healthy side dish that everyone will love!
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is the standard, you can also use savoy cabbage for a slightly sweeter taste or even purple cabbage for a vibrant color. Just remember that the cooking time might vary slightly based on the type of cabbage.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you prefer a different oil, avocado oil is an excellent alternative due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. You can also use cooking spray for a lighter option, but it may not give the same richness as olive oil.
How Do I Store Leftover Cabbage Wedges?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain some crispiness!
Can I Add More Seasoning or Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cayenne pepper for some heat or Italian herbs for extra flavor. You can also top the wedges with crispy bacon bits or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for a delicious touch.
