Cook with Color: 10 Flavorful Purple Cabbage Recipes Worth Making

If your usual meals are starting to feel a bit dull, it might be time to add a pop of color—starting with purple cabbage. This vibrant veggie isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also packed with nutrients, crunch, and endless versatility. From fresh salads to sizzling stir-fries, these purple cabbage recipes offer a fun and flavorful way to brighten up your plate without adding complexity to your cooking routine.

In this article, you’ll discover 10 delicious and easy recipes featuring purple cabbage as the star ingredient—perfect for weeknight dinners, healthy lunches, or make-ahead sides.

Frequently Asked Questions About Purple Cabbage

What’s the difference between red and purple cabbage?
They’re the same! Purple cabbage is often labeled as red cabbage, but its deep purple hue makes the former name more accurate.

Is purple cabbage good for you?
Absolutely. It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and supports digestive health.

Can purple cabbage be eaten raw?
Yes, and it’s delicious raw! It adds crunch and color to salads, slaws, and wraps.

Does purple cabbage taste different from green cabbage?
Purple cabbage has a slightly peppery, more robust flavor than green cabbage, especially when raw. When cooked, the taste becomes milder and sweeter.

1. Purple Cabbage Slaw with Apple and Carrot

This vibrant slaw brings together the crunch of purple cabbage, the sweetness of apples, and the freshness of carrots. It’s tossed in a light vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard—perfect for serving with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or veggie burgers.

Ingredient Highlights:
Purple cabbage, green apple, shredded carrot, apple cider vinegar, olive oil.

Serving Tip: Make a few hours ahead to let the flavors meld. Add toasted seeds for extra crunch.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Apple Cabbage Slaw

2. Stir-Fried Purple Cabbage with Garlic and Ginger

Quick and flavorful, this stir-fry is a great side dish for any Asian-inspired meal. Purple cabbage retains a bit of crunch while soaking up the aromatic flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.

Variations:
Add sesame seeds, chili flakes, or toss with soba noodles for a full meal.

Serving Tip: Cook just until slightly softened to preserve texture and color.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Asian Cabbage Stir-Fry

3. Purple Cabbage and Quinoa Power Bowls

These meal-prep-friendly bowls combine roasted chickpeas, shredded purple cabbage, quinoa, and avocado. Tossed with a creamy tahini dressing, it’s a filling and balanced lunch that’s easy to customize with seasonal ingredients.

Ingredient Highlights:
Purple cabbage, cooked quinoa, roasted chickpeas, avocado, lemon tahini dressing.

Make It Your Own: Add sweet potatoes, hummus, or a poached egg for extra protein.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Quinoa Cabbage Bowl

4. Tacos with Purple Cabbage Slaw

Give your tacos a crunchy, colorful twist with purple cabbage slaw. Whether you’re making shrimp tacos, pulled pork, or crispy tofu, this topping brings brightness and texture that balances rich or spicy fillings.

Pro Tip: Add lime juice and cilantro to your slaw for an extra layer of freshness.

Serving Tip: Make slaw ahead, but dress just before serving to retain crunch.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

5. Braised Purple Cabbage with Apples and Onions

This sweet and savory dish is perfect for cooler months. Slow-cooked purple cabbage with apples and onions pairs beautifully with pork, sausage, or roasted root vegetables. A splash of vinegar brings everything together.

Ingredient Highlights:
Purple cabbage, apple, onion, balsamic or red wine vinegar, butter or olive oil.

Flavor Boost: Add cloves or caraway seeds for a hint of spice.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Braised Red Cabbage

6. Purple Cabbage and Avocado Wraps

These vibrant wraps are packed with texture and nutrients. Use large leafy greens or whole wheat tortillas and fill them with a mixture of purple cabbage, avocado, carrots, and your favorite protein or hummus.

Serving Tip: Roll tightly and slice in half for easy serving or lunch packing.

Flavor Idea: Add a drizzle of peanut sauce or a sprinkle of feta for a savory twist.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Wraps

7. Pickled Purple Cabbage

A simple and bold addition to any sandwich, burger, taco, or bowl. Pickling enhances cabbage’s natural flavor while preserving its vibrant color. Plus, it’s easy to make and lasts for weeks in the fridge.

Quick Pickling Brine: Vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and optional garlic or spices.

Serving Tip: Let sit at least 2 hours, but best after a full day.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Quick Pickled Cabbage

8. Purple Cabbage Stir-Fry with Tofu

This vegetarian stir-fry is hearty enough to be a full meal. Cubed tofu is pan-fried until crispy and tossed with purple cabbage, bell peppers, and a savory hoisin-based sauce. Serve over rice or noodles.

Ingredient Highlights:
Tofu, purple cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, hoisin, green onions.

Pro Tip: Press tofu before cooking for the best texture.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Stir-Fried Tofu Cabbage

9. Roasted Purple Cabbage Wedges

If you’ve never roasted cabbage, you’re missing out. Roasting brings out a subtle sweetness while crisping the edges. These thick wedges are seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan or nutritional yeast.

Serving Idea: Serve as a unique side with grilled meats or grain bowls.

Flavor Boost: Finish with lemon zest and fresh herbs.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Roasted Cabbage

10. Purple Cabbage and Black Bean Salad

A crunchy, satisfying salad packed with protein and fiber. Purple cabbage, black beans, corn, red pepper, and avocado come together in a lime-cilantro dressing. It’s fresh, filling, and perfect for summer potlucks or weekday lunches.

Ingredient Highlights:
Purple cabbage, black beans, corn, red onion, lime juice.

Make It a Meal: Top with grilled chicken or tortilla strips.

➡️ Get Full Recipe: Southwestern Cabbage Salad

Brighten Up Your Meals with Purple Cabbage

Whether you’re making slaws, wraps, or warm bowls, purple cabbage is an easy way to bring color, crunch, and nutrients to your meals. These ten flavorful recipes prove just how versatile this underrated vegetable can be.

Ready to give your meals a colorful makeover? Explore more veggie-forward dishes and global recipes at Chaskoza for fresh inspiration every week.