Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Cabbage is the unexpected hero of summer cuisine—cool, crisp, and incredibly versatile.
Whether you’re whipping up a refreshing slaw, grilling hearty cabbage steaks, or tossing it into vibrant salads, this humble veggie brings crunch, flavor, and nutrition to every dish.
In this collection of 23+ summer cabbage recipes, you’ll find easy, fresh, and delicious ways to highlight cabbage at its seasonal best.
From light lunches to crowd-pleasing sides and cookout-ready creations, these recipes will inspire you to reach for cabbage all summer long.
23+ Quick and Tasty Summer Cabbage Recipes You’ll Love All Season Long
From simple sides to satisfying mains, these summer cabbage recipes prove just how delicious and adaptable cabbage can be when the weather heats up.
Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a barbecue, or just looking for something light and healthy, these dishes offer a fresh new way to enjoy cabbage.
Try a few this week and discover just how vibrant summer cooking can be.
Sautéed Cabbage and Onions
Caramelized onions and tender cabbage come together in this simple yet soul-warming dish that brings out the natural sweetness of both ingredients.
As the onions sizzle and turn golden in the pan, the earthy aroma fills your kitchen, signaling comfort food at its finest.
With just a touch of butter, salt, and pepper, this humble recipe becomes a velvety side that pairs effortlessly with grilled meats or roasted potatoes.
The cabbage turns silky and slightly crisp around the edges, adding a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Enjoy it as a light lunch, or serve it as a versatile complement to almost any summer spread.
Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Cool, crunchy, and refreshingly tangy, this cabbage and cucumber salad is the epitome of summer simplicity.
Shredded cabbage adds body, while thin slices of cucumber offer a delicate crispness that’s hard to resist.
Dressed in a light vinaigrette with hints of garlic and fresh dill, the flavors burst with brightness in every bite.
It’s perfect for picnics, backyard barbecues, or as a palate-cleansing side to spicy mains.
The vibrant green tones and zesty aroma make it as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.
Southern Fried Cabbage
Smoky, savory, and rich with soul, Southern Fried Cabbage transforms humble greens into something truly unforgettable.
Bacon drippings infuse every bite with depth, while sautéed onions and a dash of spice round out the flavor profile.
The cabbage softens yet retains a slight bite, giving the dish a satisfying, hearty texture.
Its robust aroma draws everyone to the kitchen before it even hits the plate.
Enjoy it as a stand-alone dish or serve it alongside cornbread and grilled sausages for a down-home summer feast.
Cabbage Stir Fry
Quick, colorful, and bursting with umami, this cabbage stir fry brings bold Asian flavors to your table in minutes.
A medley of garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of heat coats the crisp-tender cabbage in a savory glaze.
The slight char from the wok enhances its natural sweetness and adds a smoky nuance.
This dish is incredibly flexible—toss in tofu, shrimp, or leftover chicken for a fast weeknight meal.
Its intoxicating aroma and vibrant crunch make it a standout solo or a fantastic companion to rice or noodles.
Cabbage and Apple Slaw
Bright, tangy, and subtly sweet, Cabbage and Apple Slaw is a refreshing twist on a classic summer side.
Crisp red and green cabbage blend with juicy apple slices, all tied together with a creamy, lightly spiced dressing.
The contrast of textures—from the crunch of the cabbage to the tender bite of the fruit—keeps every forkful interesting.
Hints of cider vinegar and honey elevate the flavor and bring balance to rich summer fare.
Perfect with pulled pork, fish tacos, or eaten straight from the bowl, this slaw is a seasonal staple.
Cabbage Soup
Light yet satisfying, Cabbage Soup is a brothy, herbaceous dish perfect for warm evenings or healthful lunches.
Simmered with tomatoes, carrots, and a touch of garlic, the cabbage becomes tender and deeply infused with flavor.
A swirl of olive oil and sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end adds a bright, aromatic finish.
Its clean taste and hydrating broth make it a revitalizing option between heavier summer meals.
Whether served warm or chilled, this soup is a nourishing addition to any summer table.
Grilled Cabbage
Smoky, charred edges meet tender, buttery leaves in this grilled cabbage recipe that redefines what summer vegetables can be.
The cabbage is brushed with olive oil, sprinkled with garlic and paprika, then flame-kissed to bring out a nutty depth.
Each wedge boasts crispy outer layers and a soft, juicy center that melts in your mouth.
It’s a striking side dish for steaks, burgers, or even grilled tofu.
The aroma of sizzling cabbage on the grill alone will make this a warm-weather favorite.
Cabbage Tacos
Fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, cabbage tacos are a plant-forward spin on taco night that’s light yet satisfying.
Shredded cabbage acts as both filler and garnish, soaking up spices, lime juice, and creamy toppings with ease.
Whether paired with black beans, pulled pork, or shrimp, the texture adds a lively crunch to every bite.
Zesty and vibrant, these tacos offer a colorful contrast to traditional heavy fillings.
They’re ideal for casual summer dinners or fun, build-your-own taco bars.
Cabbage Pancakes
Crispy on the edges and savory throughout, cabbage pancakes are a golden, griddled delight.
Inspired by Japanese okonomiyaki, these pancakes are filled with chopped cabbage, green onions, and a light, eggy batter.
The aroma is toasty and mouthwatering, with just a hint of sesame oil sizzling in the pan.
Top with soy sauce or spicy mayo for a punch of umami that makes them irresistible.
They work great as an appetizer, lunch, or even a quick dinner when time is tight.
Pickled Cabbage
Tangy, crunchy, and wildly refreshing, pickled cabbage is a must-have condiment for summer.
Brightened with vinegar, garlic, and a touch of sugar, it strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sour.
The crisp texture holds up beautifully in sandwiches, wraps, or as a bright pop on grilled meats.
Its vivid pink hue and zingy aroma add life to any dish.
Make a big jar and enjoy it for days—it only gets better with time.
Cabbage Wraps
Light, crisp, and endlessly versatile, cabbage wraps are a smart and satisfying alternative to tortillas or bread.
Large cabbage leaves cradle fillings like seasoned ground meat, rice, or veggies with a fresh crunch.
Each bite is juicy, herbaceous, and full of layered texture.
Perfect for hot days when you want something cool and handheld.
They’re just as good served cold from the fridge as they are freshly made.
Creamed Cabbage
Velvety, rich, and deeply comforting, creamed cabbage offers a luscious twist on a traditional summer side.
Shredded cabbage is slowly cooked with butter, cream, and a touch of nutmeg until luxuriously soft.
The aroma is warm and buttery, and the taste is mild with just enough sweetness from the cabbage.
It pairs beautifully with roast chicken, grilled sausages, or even a fried egg on top.
It’s hearty yet gentle—a creamy, nostalgic dish made for warm evenings.
Cabbage Stir Fry
Fast, flavorful, and full of texture, cabbage stir fry is a go-to summer dish for busy weeknights.
It features crisp-tender cabbage tossed in a garlicky soy-based sauce that clings to every bite.
A splash of sesame oil adds a nutty aroma that fills the kitchen as it cooks.
Perfect on its own or served over rice, it adapts easily to whatever protein or veggies you have on hand.
Fresh, vibrant, and ready in minutes—it’s simplicity done right.
Cabbage Slaw
Bright, crunchy, and endlessly adaptable, cabbage slaw is a must-have side at any summer gathering.
Made with shredded cabbage and carrots, it’s tossed in a zesty dressing of vinegar, mustard, and just a hint of sweetness.
The flavors are sharp and clean, with a refreshing bite that cuts through rich main dishes.
It’s ideal for topping sandwiches or tacos, or just scooping straight from the bowl.
Every picnic and cookout needs a bowl of this classic crunch.
Roasted Cabbage
Deeply caramelized and rich in flavor, roasted cabbage turns this simple vegetable into a standout.
The high heat brings out its natural sugars, creating crisp edges and a tender center.
A hint of olive oil and a sprinkle of seasoning are all it takes to unlock its full potential.
It smells slightly sweet, savory, and toasty as it cooks, like roasted Brussels sprouts’ cousin.
A delicious side that goes with everything from grilled fish to veggie burgers.
Cabbage Soup
Clean, light, and packed with nutrients, cabbage soup is a summertime comfort in a bowl.
It’s made with broth, tomatoes, herbs, and plenty of fresh cabbage simmered until tender.
Each spoonful offers a warm, satisfying bite with subtle aromatic undertones.
Whether served hot or chilled, it’s refreshing without being too heavy.
Ideal for a reset meal or a light lunch when you want something nourishing and flavorful.
Braised Cabbage
Tender, buttery, and infused with flavor, braised cabbage is a dish that slowly unfolds with every bite.
Cooked gently with onion, garlic, and a splash of broth, the cabbage becomes melt-in-your-mouth soft.
Its savory aroma fills the kitchen, hinting at the rich depth inside.
It’s a cozy, elegant addition to grilled meats or hearty grain bowls.
This is the kind of side that steals the spotlight without trying too hard.
Cabbage Steaks
Thick-cut, oven-roasted cabbage steaks are crispy, smoky, and surprisingly satisfying.
Each slice is seasoned and seared until golden on the outside and tender on the inside.
A drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle of spices enhance its natural flavor without overpowering it.
Their roasted aroma is warm and inviting, making them hard to resist fresh out of the oven.
Serve with dipping sauces or stack with toppings for a fresh twist on meatless mains.
Cabbage Salad
Crisp, cool, and bursting with garden freshness, cabbage salad is the ultimate side for warm-weather meals.
Thinly sliced cabbage mingles with colorful veggies and a tangy vinaigrette for a light, refreshing crunch.
Each bite delivers a mix of textures—from snappy to tender—and a zingy brightness that cuts through rich dishes.
It’s a natural fit for grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a stand-alone lunch on hot days.
With its simple prep and big flavor, this salad belongs in every summer lineup.
Coleslaw
Creamy, tangy, and endlessly craveable, coleslaw is a timeless favorite that shines alongside summer classics.
Shredded cabbage and carrots get tossed in a cool, silky dressing with just the right balance of sweetness and zip.
Its familiar crunch and mellow flavor make it a crowd-pleaser for picnics, BBQs, and potlucks.
It smells clean and lightly sweet, with a satisfying texture that holds up well on sandwiches or as a side.
A chilled bowl of coleslaw completes any warm-weather spread.
Fried Cabbage
Sizzling and savory, fried cabbage is a one-skillet wonder packed with smoky, comforting flavors.
Cabbage is sautéed until golden with garlic, onions, and a touch of butter or bacon grease.
It smells like home cooking—rich and warm, with crispy bits that add irresistible texture.
The flavors are bold and layered, making it perfect for pairing with sausage, cornbread, or even eggs.
Rustic, hearty, and quick—this dish proves cabbage can be pure comfort food.
Cabbage Rolls
Hearty and wholesome, cabbage rolls are a cozy favorite wrapped in tender cabbage leaves.
Each roll is stuffed with a seasoned mix of rice and ground meat, then baked in a savory tomato sauce.
The aroma is rich and inviting, hinting at the delicious warmth inside.
Their satisfying texture and balanced flavor make them a filling main course or a standout side.
Whether served hot from the oven or as leftovers, they’re always a hit.
Napa Cabbage Salad
Delicate and crunchy, napa cabbage salad is a lighter take on traditional slaws with a subtle sweetness.
It blends tender napa leaves with slivered almonds, crisp noodles, and a sesame-ginger dressing.
The mix of flavors is nutty, tangy, and just a little sweet, perfect for warm days.
Its aroma is fresh and citrusy, with a hint of toasted sesame.
Serve it with grilled chicken, tofu, or enjoy as a refreshing dish on its own.
Conclusion
Cabbage might not always steal the spotlight, but these 23+ summer cabbage recipes show it deserves a front-row seat at your summer table.
Which recipe are you most excited to try first?
Share your favorites, add your own twist, and tag a friend who needs some cabbage inspiration—because summer cooking is always better together.
