Flavorful Roasted Cabbage Recipe with Hot Honey Twist

Name: Flavorful Roasted Cabbage Recipe with Hot Honey Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cabbage, roughly chopped or sliced into wedges; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup roasted and salted peanuts, roughly chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Posted on October 27, 2025

The smell of caramelized cabbage with a hint of spicy-sweet hot honey wafting through the kitchen is pure magic. This roasted cabbage recipe has quickly become one of my favorites—not just because it’s ridiculously easy, but because it’s packed with bold flavors and textures. Who knew humble cabbage could be this exciting? With crispy edges, a touch of heat, and the crunch of roasted peanuts, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I discovered this recipe during one of those “clean out the fridge” nights when I had half a head of cabbage and a craving for something different. After experimenting with hot honey drizzle and a sprinkle of peanuts, I knew I had stumbled onto something special. This roasted cabbage is perfect for weeknights, but it’s also impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Trust me, you’ll be making this one on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is ready in about 35 minutes.
Bold Flavors: The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory is irresistible.
Simple Ingredients: Cabbage, honey, chili flakes, and peanuts—no fancy grocery shopping required.
Versatile: Works as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a vegetarian main course.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this dish is sure to get rave reviews.
Unique Twist: The hot honey drizzle and toasted peanuts take this recipe to the next level, making it different from your average roasted vegetable dish.

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something that’s comforting but still exciting. It’s a wonderful way to showcase cabbage’s natural sweetness while adding layers of flavor and texture. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so you can make it your own!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Most of these are pantry staples, and there’s room for easy substitutions if needed.

Cabbage: One medium head, roughly chopped or sliced into wedges.
Olive Oil: About 2 tablespoons for roasting (helps achieve those crispy edges).
Honey: The base for our hot honey—choose a good-quality honey for the best flavor.
Chili Flakes: Adds the kick to our hot honey (adjust to taste).
Peanuts: Roasted and salted, roughly chopped for texture and crunch.
Salt & Pepper: For seasoning the cabbage before roasting.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of freshness to balance the flavors.

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! You can easily swap peanuts for almonds or omit them altogether. Maple syrup works as an alternative to honey, and red pepper flakes can be substituted with cayenne or hot sauce.

Equipment Needed

Baking Sheet: A large one to spread the cabbage out evenly.
Parchment Paper: Optional, but great for easy cleanup and preventing sticking.
Small Saucepan: For making the hot honey drizzle.
Knife & Cutting Board: To chop the cabbage and peanuts.
Mixing Bowl: For tossing the cabbage with olive oil and seasonings.

No fancy tools are needed here—just the basics. If you don’t have parchment paper, a quick grease with oil on the baking sheet works just as well.

Preparation Method

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the cabbage: Remove any damaged outer leaves and chop the cabbage into wedges or large chunks. Toss in a mixing bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Roast the cabbage: Spread the cabbage evenly on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The edges should be golden brown and crispy.
Make the hot honey: In a small saucepan, combine honey and chili flakes. Heat gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Toast the peanuts: If your peanuts aren’t already roasted, you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
Assemble the dish: Once the cabbage is roasted, drizzle the hot honey over the top and sprinkle with chopped peanuts. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Serve immediately while the cabbage is warm and crispy. If you’re making this ahead of time, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure the cabbage has space to roast evenly—use two trays if necessary.
Watch the honey: When heating the honey, keep the flame low to avoid scorching. Burnt honey can taste bitter.
Customize the spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small pinch of chili flakes and adjust to taste.
Get those crispy edges: For extra crunch, let the cabbage roast a bit longer (but keep an eye on it to avoid burning).
Balance the flavors: The lemon juice is key—it cuts through the sweetness and spice, so don’t skip it!

These tips will help ensure your roasted cabbage comes out perfect every time. Once you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to experiment with different flavors!

Variations & Adaptations

Make it vegan: Swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.
Nut-free option: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of peanuts.
Add herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, cilantro, or chives on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
Seasonal twist: Incorporate roasted carrots or sweet potatoes alongside the cabbage for a hearty fall dish.
Asian-inspired: Add a dash of soy sauce or sesame oil to the hot honey for a different flavor profile.

One of my favorite variations involves swapping peanuts for sesame seeds and drizzling the hot honey with a touch of ginger juice—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This roasted cabbage is best served warm, straight out of the oven. Pair it with grilled chicken, tofu, or even a fried egg for a complete meal. It also works beautifully alongside rice or quinoa for a satisfying vegetarian dish.

To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to soften the cabbage too much.

The flavors deepen slightly as it sits, making it a great meal prep option. Just keep the peanuts separate and sprinkle them on just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cabbage is a great source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. The peanuts provide healthy fats and plant-based protein, while the hot honey adds a touch of natural sweetness without refined sugar.

Estimated per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 180
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 5g

If you’re following a gluten-free or vegetarian diet, this recipe is perfect for you. Just check your honey and chili flakes to ensure they’re compliant with your dietary needs.

Conclusion

If you’ve ever thought cabbage was boring, this recipe will completely change your mind. The crispy roasted edges, the sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle, and the crunch of peanuts—it’s a flavor and texture explosion that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Yes, red cabbage works beautifully in this recipe. The flavor is slightly earthier, and the color adds a vibrant touch.

What kind of peanuts should I use?

Roasted and salted peanuts are ideal for flavor and texture. You can also use unsalted peanuts if you prefer to control the saltiness.

Is hot honey spicy?

Hot honey has a mild kick from the chili flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the cabbage ahead of time and reheat it in the oven. Add the hot honey and peanuts just before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the cabbage in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore its crispy texture.

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