Low-Calorie Cabbage Side Dishes: 20 Recipes Under 200 Calories

Cabbage is one of the most versatile, affordable, and nutrient-dense vegetables available. This cruciferous powerhouse is naturally low in calories—only about 22 calories per cup shredded—while delivering impressive amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants. Whether you’re following a low-calorie diet, aiming for weight loss, or simply seeking lighter side dishes, cabbage recipes offer endless possibilities without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

From crisp salads and creamy slaws to hearty sautés and comforting soups, these 20 low-calorie cabbage side dishes (all under 200 calories per serving) showcase cabbage’s chameleon-like ability to absorb flavors while maintaining its signature crunch or tender texture. Most recipes take 30 minutes or less, making them perfect for busy weeknights. We’ve organized them by preparation style for easy browsing.

Cabbage Salads & Slaws (6 Recipes)

Nothing beats the refreshing crunch of raw cabbage salads. These no-cook options are ideal for summer picnics or quick lunch sides.

1. Classic Coleslaw (95 calories/serving)

Our lightened-up version of traditional coleslaw uses Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, slashing calories by 60% while keeping it creamy and tangy. Shredded green cabbage, carrots, and red onion get tossed in a zesty dressing of nonfat yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey. Fresh dill adds herbaceous brightness. Prep in 15 minutes; serves 6.

2. Asian Cabbage Slaw (72 calories/serving)

Rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and scallions transform simple cabbage into an umami-packed slaw. Add shredded red cabbage for color contrast and toasted sesame seeds for crunch. This 10-minute recipe pairs perfectly with grilled fish or chicken.

3. Citrus Cabbage Salad (88 calories/serving)

Bright orange and lime juices dress thinly sliced cabbage, fennel, and radishes. Toasted almonds provide protein and crunch. The vitamin C triple-threat (cabbage + citrus) makes this immunity-boosting salad a winter favorite.

4. Apple-Cabbage Slaw (112 calories/serving)

Tart Granny Smith apples, green cabbage, and celery root come together in a maple-mustard vinaigrette. Dried cranberries add natural sweetness without excess sugar. This autumn-inspired slaw serves 8 and holds up beautifully for meal prep.

5. Spicy Mexican Cabbage Slaw (65 calories/serving)

Lime, cilantro, jalapeño, and cumin give this slaw fiesta flair. Jicama adds extra crunch while keeping calories low. Essential for fish tacos or alongside grilled skirt steak.

6. Creamy Cucumber-Cabbage Salad (78 calories/serving)

Thinly sliced cucumbers and cabbage marinate in a dill-yogurt dressing. Red onion slices provide bite. This Eastern European-inspired salad refreshes any heavy main dish.

Sautéed & Stir-Fried Cabbage (5 Recipes)

Quick cooking methods like sautéing preserve cabbage’s texture while concentrating flavors. Use a nonstick pan or wok for minimal oil.

7. Garlic Sautéed Cabbage (52 calories/serving)

Five ingredients, 10 minutes: cabbage wedges sautéed with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The edges caramelize beautifully while the core stays crisp-tender.

8. Balsamic-Glazed Cabbage (68 calories/serving)

Red cabbage wedges get a glossy finish from reduced balsamic vinegar and a pat of butter. Rosemary sprigs infuse woodsy aroma. Elegant enough for dinner parties.

9. Ginger-Sesame Cabbage Stir-Fry (84 calories/serving)

Shredded cabbage and bell peppers stir-fry with fresh ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, and sesame oil. Top with green onions. Ready in under 15 minutes.

10. Caraway Cabbage Sauté (59 calories/serving)

A German classic: cabbage sautéed with caraway seeds, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of brown sugar. The seeds’ licorice notes elevate simple cabbage to side-dish stardom.

11. Lemon-Herb Cabbage (71 calories/serving)

Fresh parsley, lemon zest, and garlic transform cabbage into a Mediterranean-inspired side. Use savoy cabbage for extra tenderness.

Roasted & Braised Cabbage (4 Recipes)

Roasting intensifies cabbage’s natural sweetness; braising makes it meltingly tender. Both methods work with minimal added fat.

12. Roasted Cabbage Wedges (64 calories/serving)

Cabbage wedges roast at high heat with olive oil, salt, and pepper until edges are crispy and caramelized. Simple perfection that rivals roasted potatoes.

13. Braised Red Cabbage (92 calories/serving)

Red cabbage slowly braises with onions, apple cider, red wine vinegar, and cinnamon. The result is jewel-toned, sweet-tart perfection. Make ahead for best flavor.

14. Miso-Roasted Cabbage (78 calories/serving)

Miso paste, sriracha, and sesame oil create an umami bomb coating for roasted cabbage steaks. Vegan and irresistibly addictive.

15. Beer-Braised Cabbage (105 calories/serving)

Light beer, mustard seeds, and cabbage create a hearty German-style side. Use non-alcoholic beer to keep calories lowest.

Soups & Stews (3 Recipes)

Cabbage shines in brothy dishes, adding bulk and nutrition without many calories.

16. Cabbage Soup (45 calories/serving)

Tomatoes, carrots, celery, and cabbage simmer in vegetable broth with thyme. A weight-loss staple that’s filling and detoxifying.

17. Curried Cabbage Soup (67 calories/serving)

Coconut milk, curry powder, and ginger create creamy, golden soup without heavy cream. Serve with lime wedges.

18. Borscht (Lite) (82 calories/serving)

Beets, cabbage, and potatoes in beef broth (use vegetable broth for vegan). Dill and sour cream (light) finish this Russian classic.

Other Creative Cabbage Sides (2 Recipes)

19. Pickled Cabbage (28 calories/serving)

Quick-pickled cabbage with rice vinegar, sugar, and chili flakes. Ready in 30 minutes; lasts a week in fridge. Asian taco topping perfection.

20. Cabbage ‘Noodles’ (49 calories/serving)

Spiralized cabbage cooks like pasta with garlic and olive oil. Top with Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a low-carb zoodle alternative.

Nutrition Highlights: Why Cabbage? ★

• Ultra-low calorie: 22 calories/cup shredded (green cabbage)
• High fiber: 2.2g/cup = stays full longer
• Vitamin C powerhouse: 36mg/cup (40% DV)
• Antioxidant-rich: Sulforaphane fights inflammation
• Budget-friendly: ~$0.50/pound year-round

Pro Tip: Choose firm cabbage heads with vibrant color. Store wrapped in fridge up to 2 weeks. Savoy cabbage for tenderness; Napa for slaws; red for antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cabbage good for weight loss?

Absolutely! Cabbage’s high water (92%) and fiber content promote satiety. Studies show cruciferous veggies aid weight management by improving gut health and reducing calorie absorption.

How do you cut cabbage for these recipes?

Remove outer leaves, quarter head, cut out core. Shred finely for slaws (food processor or knife), cut into 1-inch wedges for roasting/sautéing, or chop into 2-inch pieces for stir-fries.

Can I freeze cabbage for these recipes?

Yes! Shred and blanch for 1-2 minutes before freezing. Perfect for soups and braises. Whole leaves freeze well for cabbage rolls.

Are there low-carb cabbage recipes here?

All 20 recipes are naturally low-carb (<15g net carbs/serving). The cabbage ‘noodles’ and roasted wedges are particularly keto-friendly.

Similar Articles

Alarming Rise in Self-Harm in Young People

Alarming Rise in Self-Harm in Young People

Skin Signs Of Non-Accidental Injury: Expert Guide For Clinicians

Lichen Simplex Of The Scrotum: Diagnosis And Treatment

Labial Adhesion In Prepubertal Girls: What Parents Need To Know

Thrush In Men: 5 Signs, Causes, And Treatment Options

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to renewcure,  crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete