Roasted Cabbage with Bacon Gremolata

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized head of cabbage (about 1 1/2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 3/4 cup roasted unsalted almonds
• 4 strips (about 1/4 pound) good-quality thick-cut bacon
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• Pinch of kosher salt
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

• 1.

  Arrange two oven racks in the upper and lower third of the oven.

• 2.

  Peel off one or two of the thin, limp outer layers of the cabbage. Trim the stem so that it is flush with the bottom of the cabbage (if it isn't already).

• 3.

  Set the cabbage upright and slice into 1-inch thick slices. Don't worry if a few of the outer layers unfurl or fall away.

• 4.

  Use a pastry brush to cover both sides of the cabbage slices with olive oil, or use your fingers to rub the oil in. Season both sides with a little salt and pepper.

• 5.

  Arrange the cabbage slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast on the lower oven rack for 35 to 45 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through cooking.

• 6.

  When done, both sides should be seared an even golden-brown with crispy edges and the center of the slices should be tender.

• 7.

  Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until very crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. When cool, roughly chop.

• 8.

  Combine the chopped almonds, chopped bacon, minced parsley, lemon zest, and a pinch of kosher salt in a small mixing bowl. Toss to combine and set aside. (This bacon gremolata can be prepared ahead and kept refrigerated in an airtight container for about a week.)

• 9.

  As soon as the cabbage slices are done roasting, transfer to a serving platter or individual plates. Sprinkle with a few spoonfuls of bacon gremolata and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.