This dish combines tender cooked rice with fresh, crunchy cabbage and a bright lemon dressing. The cabbage is sliced thinly and added to the rice, which is seasoned with zesty lemon juice and toasted until fragrant, resulting in a vibrant, textured meal with crispy and fluffy elements.
Cook the rice in a large pot with 3 cups of water, bringing it to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until the rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
While the rice cooks, thinly slice the green cabbage using a sharp knife and cutting board, aiming for fine shreds that will mix easily with the rice.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering and fragrant, add the sliced cabbage and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still crunchy.
Pour the cooked rice into a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed cabbage and toss gently to combine, ensuring even distribution of the crunch and tender rice.
Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the rice and cabbage mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste, then toss to evenly coat everything with the citrusy dressing.
Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and garnish with additional lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crunchy cabbage and fluffy rice with bright citrus flavor.
Notes
For extra flavor, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Adjust lemon and seasoning to your taste for a personalized touch.