Verza al forno (Baked Savoy Cabbage)

Here is the recipe for preparing baked savoy cabbage (cabbage) in a simple and appetizing Italian style.

Ingredients

• 1 medium savoy cabbage
• 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Breadcrumbs (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200 °C.
2. Remove the tougher outer leaves of the cabbage and cut the savoy cabbage into four wedges, keeping the core so that the leaves stay attached. If you prefer, you can also cut it into strips.
3. Peel the garlic cloves and slightly crush them with the side of the knife.
4. In an ovenproof dish large enough to contain the cabbage wedges, pour the extra virgin olive oil and add the garlic.
5. Lay the cabbage wedges in the dish and brush them with oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper as desired.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake the cabbage for about 40 minutes.
7. After this time, remove the aluminum foil, and if you wish, sprinkle the cabbage with a bit of breadcrumbs and Parmesan. This will add crunchiness and flavor. For a sour touch, you can drizzle with a stream of balsamic vinegar.
8. Put back in the oven for another 20 minutes or until the cabbage is golden and crispy on the edges.

If you prefer a more flavorful touch, you could enrich the recipe with slices of bacon or sausage laid between the layers of cabbage before baking, or add boiled chestnuts in the last step of cooking for a richly flavored winter dish.

Curiosity

Baked savoy cabbage is a dish of simple preparation that highlights the sweet and slightly peppery taste of this vegetable. Besides being tasty, savoy cabbage is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent ally for our health.