Cod and cabbage sauté is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together delicate fish and hearty vegetables in one skillet. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and light, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something wholesome but not heavy. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a balanced, flavorful dish on the table in no time.
Cod is a mild, flaky white fish that cooks quickly and takes on flavor beautifully. Paired with cabbage — which becomes tender and slightly caramelized when sautéed, the result is a deliciously balanced dish with a mix of textures. The natural sweetness of the cabbage complements the clean, mild flavor of the cod, while garlic, onion, and a splash of lemon bring everything to life.
This sauté is all about letting simple ingredients shine. A little olive oil or butter in the pan helps develop a golden crust on the fish while softening the cabbage to the perfect consistency. You can season it with salt, pepper, and a touch of thyme or parsley for freshness. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
Cod and cabbage sauté is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, making it a great option for those following lighter or clean-eating diets. It also reheats well, so it works for meal prep or leftovers the next day. You can serve it as is or alongside a scoop of mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a slice of crusty bread for a more filling meal.
What makes this dish stand out is its simplicity. There’s no need for heavy sauces or complex methods. Just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a few good seasonings are enough to bring out the best in both the cod and the cabbage. It’s an easy, nourishing meal that feels both classic and refreshing.

Ingredients
- 2 fillets cod fillet
- 1 onion thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cabbage thinly sliced
- 1 tsp thyme dried
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Season the cod fillets with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- Move the cabbage mixture to the sides of the skillet and place the cod fillets in the center.
- Cook the cod fillets for about 5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
- Serve the cod and cabbage sauté hot.
Yum! Cabbage is so good. Coulda used more garlic tho, I like it strong.
It was ok, but I found the cod a bit bland. Maybe try adding some lemon next time?
I totally agree! A little lemon zest could really brighten it up. I like your suggestion!
Bland? Really? I thought it was fine. Maybe try seasoning it better next time?
Super simple and healthy! I’m on a diet and this fits perfectly. Thanks for sharing!
I dunno, it was kinda bland. Maybe needs more spices? My family didn’t really like it. 😕
Cookin is hard, i burnt my onions 😂 but still turned out okay.
Cod n cabbage??? NAH! Gimme meat! 😤
I didn’t have cod, so I used tilapia instead. It turned out kinda bland. Maybe it’s the fish? Not sure I’ll try this again.
This was amazing! I loved the flavors. Definitely making again! 😍
I thought the cod was too fishy! But I like my food plain… maybe I did something wrong.
I’m glad you loved it! The flavors really come together nicely. 😄
Cabbage tastes weird to me, but the fish was nice. Guess it’s a hit and miss 💁♂️.
Yeah, cabbage can be a bit funky sometimes! Glad you liked the fish though! 😊
I don’t understand how you can not like cabbage! It’s healthy and yummy! What’s wrong with your taste buds? 🤔
Who even eats cod? This should be with chicken instead, way better! 🤨
Lol why not both? Chicken could work but cod has its own flavor ya know.
Cod is actually super nutritious! Healthy fats and proteins. Chicken is good too, but don’t knock cod until you try it. 🐟
This was so good! The cod was flaky and the cabbage added a nice crunch. Will definitely make again!
Why would you put cabbage with fish? Sounds weird. But I tried it, and it’s not awful, I guess. 🤷♂️
I thought the same thing! But it actually works. Cabbage adds a nice crunch to the dish. 😋
This recipe was super easy to follow! The cod was flaky and the cabbage added a nice crunch. Definitely making it again! 👍
Seems easy, but did you really get all the flavors? I tried a similar recipe, and it was bland! Just asking…
I’m glad to hear that! Cod is such a light fish, and with cabbage, it’s a perfect combo! What’s your secret to perfecting the flakiness?
I’m not usually a fan of cabbage but in this dish it was alright. Cod tasted fresh, i added some chili flakes for spice!
Cabbage? Really? I find it tastes like nothing. Can’t believe you added chili! Cod is nice tho, I suppose.
I’m glad you enjoyed the cod! I usually avoid cabbage too but it’s nice it worked for you. Chili flakes are a great idea!
Why would you cook cabbage? It’s supposed to be crunchy!! Not sure about this recipe.
Easy to make and healthy! I added some chili flakes for a kick.
I didn’t have cod so I used tilapia. Still tasted good! 🐟
Tilapia is a good substitute! I do that sometimes too. Glad it still turned out tasty! 😊
Eh, but it’s not really the same, is it? Cod is firmer and has that unique flavor… 😒