Mediterranean Caramelized Garlic Cabbage with Feta, Walnuts & Hot Honey Drizzle
Mediterranean Caramelized Garlic Cabbage with Feta, Walnuts & Hot Honey Drizzle is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that balances sweet, savory, and spicy elements in a single pan. Tender cabbage is slowly caramelized with garlic and olive oil, then finished with creamy feta, crunchy walnuts, and a drizzle of hot honey for a sophisticated kick. This dish embodies Mediterranean cuisine with its use of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and textural contrasts. Perfect alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or served with crusty bread, it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for entertaining.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 medium green cabbage, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons hot honey (or honey mixed with a pinch of cayenne)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add the cabbage to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic oil.
Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes.
Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and starts to caramelize around the edges.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
Drizzle in the lemon juice and toss gently to combine.
Remove from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta over the cabbage.
Scatter toasted walnuts on top for crunch.
Finish with a drizzle of hot honey and a sprinkle of chopped parsley before serving warm.
Tips
Slice cabbage evenly to ensure uniform cooking and caramelization.
Use a wide skillet to avoid overcrowding and promote browning.
Toast walnuts in a dry pan for 3–5 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
Adjust hot honey spiciness according to taste or omit for a milder version.
Stir occasionally but not constantly to allow natural caramelization.
Add a splash of water if the cabbage begins to stick or brown too quickly.
Use extra virgin olive oil for a rich Mediterranean flavor.
Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish; add at the end to retain freshness.
Garnish just before serving to maintain the vibrant color of parsley.
For extra depth, add a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Variations
Replace green cabbage with savoy or red cabbage for color variation.
Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta salata for creaminess.
Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different nutty texture.
Add caramelized onions along with garlic for extra sweetness.
Include sliced bell peppers for additional color and flavor.
Drizzle with a balsamic glaze instead of hot honey for a tangy twist.
Add cooked chickpeas for a protein-rich version.
Sprinkle sumac over the finished dish for a zesty, citrusy touch.
Roast the cabbage in the oven instead of pan-cooking for a smokier flavor.
Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, savory variation.
Q & A
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I use frozen cabbage?
Fresh cabbage is preferred; frozen may become too soft.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, and it can also be vegan if feta and honey are omitted or substituted.
Can I make it spicier?
Add extra chili flakes or use chili-infused honey.
What type of honey is best?
Mild or floral honey works well; combine with cayenne for the hot honey drizzle.
Can I prepare this in advance for a dinner party?
Yes, caramelize the cabbage earlier and add walnuts, feta, and honey just before serving.
How do I prevent cabbage from being soggy?
Cook on medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I use a different nut?
Yes, almonds, pecans, or pistachios all work well.
Can I serve this cold?
It’s best served warm, though it can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 280
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 460mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Caramelized Garlic Cabbage with Feta, Walnuts & Hot Honey Drizzle is a beautifully balanced dish that combines tender, caramelized cabbage with savory feta, crunchy walnuts, and a sweet-spicy finish. Its bold Mediterranean flavors and contrasting textures make it a versatile side for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even as part of a mezze spread. Easy to prepare yet visually striking, this dish showcases how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create a sophisticated, satisfying meal. The combination of sweet, savory, nutty, and spicy elements ensures every bite is flavorful, comforting, and memorable.