Air Fryer Cabbage and Onions

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of green cabbage (about 2 lbs / 900 g), cored and cut into 1-inch wedges or chunks
• 1 large yellow onion (about 10 oz / 280 g), peeled and cut into thick wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables (5 minutes)

1. Core the cabbage and cut it into 1-inch wedges or chunks. Cut the onion into thick wedges, keeping the layers intact as much as possible. Pat the cabbage dry with a clean kitchen towel — excess moisture prevents browning and creates steam instead of crispness.

Step 2: Season (5 minutes)

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cabbage and onions with olive oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss again until every piece is evenly seasoned.

Step 3: First Cook — High Heat (10 minutes at 400°F / 200°C)

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Add the vegetables to the basket in an even layer — do not overcrowd. If your air fryer is small, cook in two batches. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes , shaking the basket halfway through (at the 5-minute mark) to promote even browning.

Step 4: Second Cook — Moderate Heat (8–12 minutes at 375°F / 190°C)

1. Reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue cooking for 8–12 minutes , shaking the basket every 4 minutes. This lower, gentler phase lets the cabbage tenderize while the onions caramelize without scorching. The dish is done when the cabbage edges are deeply golden and slightly crisp, and the onions are soft and sweet.

Step 5: Finish and Serve (1 minute)

1. Remove from the air fryer, taste, and adjust salt. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top if desired, and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: ~130 kcal · Protein: 2 g · Fat: 7 g · Carbohydrates: 15 g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 1 g · Fiber: 5 g · Sugar: 7 g · Sodium: ~320 mg