Introduction:
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Cabbage is a powerhouse vegetable that not only packs a punch in terms of nutrients but also serves as a perfect base for weight loss recipes, particularly when combined with the principles of the Weight Watchers (WW) program. Known for being low in calories and high in fiber, cabbage is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight while still enjoying delicious and satisfying meals.
This WW Cabbage Recipe for Weight Loss is designed to be nutritious, filling, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re following the WW program or just looking to reduce your calorie intake while eating wholesome, flavorful food, this recipe will be an excellent addition to your meal plan. The cabbage in this dish not only provides an impressive array of vitamins and minerals but also offers a great source of fiber to keep you feeling full longer. Along with the right mix of seasonings and lean proteins, this cabbage dish is a simple yet satisfying meal option that aligns perfectly with your weight loss goals.
Ingredients:
For the Cabbage Base:
- 1 medium head of Green Cabbage (about 1.5 to 2 lbs, shredded)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for sautéing)
- 1 small Onion (diced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 large Carrot (peeled and sliced thinly)
- 1/2 Red Bell Pepper (sliced thinly, optional for added color and nutrients)
- 1/2 cup Vegetable or Chicken Broth (low-sodium)
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar (for a touch of tanginess)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Paprika (for a smoky flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme (for herbal freshness)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
For Protein Option (Optional):
- 1 lb (450g) Ground Turkey or Chicken Breast (lean, for added protein)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for cooking the protein)
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by washing the cabbage thoroughly. Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and slice it into thin strips or shreds. You can use a sharp knife or a mandolin slicer for even slices, which will help ensure uniform cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Peel and slice the carrot into thin rounds or matchstick-sized pieces. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips, and dice the onion finely. Mince the garlic cloves. These vegetables add not only color and flavor but also essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and fiber, which will enhance the overall dish.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Next, add the sliced carrots and bell peppers to the pan. Stir everything together and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and adds depth to the dish’s flavor profile.
Step 4: Add the Shredded Cabbage
Now, add the shredded cabbage to the pan. Toss it gently with the other vegetables to combine. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften and release its moisture. The cabbage will shrink down as it cooks, so don’t worry if the pan looks full at first.
Step 5: Add the Seasonings
Once the cabbage has softened, add the vegetable or chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Stir to combine, ensuring that the cabbage is evenly coated with the seasonings. The broth will help create a slight steam effect, further softening the cabbage while infusing it with flavor.
Cover the pan again and cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage has completely softened and the flavors have melded together. You may need to stir occasionally to ensure that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
Step 6: Cook the Protein (Optional)
While the cabbage cooks, if you’re adding a protein like ground turkey or chicken breast, heat another tablespoon of olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season it with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, and cook until it’s browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes for ground turkey).
If you’re using chicken breast, you can either cook it whole and slice it or cut it into small cubes before sautéing. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 7-10 minutes depending on the size of the pieces.
Once the protein is cooked, you can either serve it on the side or stir it directly into the cabbage mixture for a fully integrated dish.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
After the cabbage has softened and absorbed the flavors, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add a little extra salt, pepper, or apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors to your liking. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, which adds a pop of color and freshness.
Serve the cabbage as a main dish or alongside your favorite low-calorie protein, such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a well-rounded meal.
