This Jamie Oliver-inspired savoy cabbage pasta is a simple, comforting, and flavorful dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying meal. Tender pasta is tossed with sweet Savoy cabbage, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese for a quick weeknight dinner that feels both wholesome and delicious.
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
300g penne pasta
1 small savoy cabbage, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, finely sliced
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
50g parmesan cheese, freshly grated
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the savoy cabbage and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
Pour in a little reserved pasta water and toss everything together.
Season with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using.
Stir in most of the Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately, topped with the remaining Parmesan and lemon zest.
Notes
Thinly sliced cabbage cooks faster and blends better with the pasta.
Reserve extra pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor.
Add cooked pancetta, chicken, or sausage for a heartier version.
Whole wheat pasta can be substituted for additional fiber.
Best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
