| Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Yield: 4 servings |
Step aside, cauliflower. In 2026, the humble cabbage has taken the crown as the most versatile, budget-friendly vegetable in the kitchen. Whether you’re following the Cabbage Crush trend or just looking for an anti-inflammatory meal that won’t break the bank, these Crispy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks are a total game-changer.
Cabbage is naturally packed with fiber and sulfur-rich compounds that support gut health and detoxification. When roasted in the air fryer, the outer leaves become as crispy as chips while the center remains tender. By topping them with a high-protein Greek yogurt sauce, we turn a simple side dish into a complete, macro-friendly meal.
Ingredients & Quantities
- 1 large Green Cabbage (cut into 1-inch thick “steaks”)
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil or Avocado Oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
High-Protein Lemon-Garlic Sauce:
- 1 cup Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt (or blended cottage cheese)
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 clove Garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Dill or Parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Cabbage: Remove the loose outer leaves of the cabbage. Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds, keeping the core intact so the “steaks” don’t fall apart.
- Season: Brush both sides of each steak with olive oil. Sprinkle generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Air Fry: Place the steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to work in batches). Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes. Flip halfway through. You are looking for those “blistered” dark brown edges—that’s where the flavor is!
- Whisk the Sauce: While the cabbage roasts, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, grated garlic, and herbs.
- Serve: Plate the crispy cabbage steaks and top each with a generous dollop of the high-protein sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or toasted seeds.
Why This Works for 2026
This recipe is the definition of “Dopamine Dining”—it’s visually vibrant, textured, and guilt-free. It hits the longevity trend by focusing on cruciferous vegetables while staying strictly within a budget-friendly grocery list.
