Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Ingredients:**
– Slice the sausage into thin rounds or half-moons.
– Peel and devein the shrimp, then set them aside.
– Shred the cabbage and chop the onion and bell pepper (if using).

2. **Cook the Sausage:**
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
– Add the sausage slices to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.

3. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
– In the same pan, add the butter and heat over medium. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper (if using), and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. **Cook the Cabbage:**
– Add the shredded cabbage to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine, and season with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
– Cook the cabbage, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until it begins to soften and gets a nice golden color. You can cover the pan to help the cabbage cook more quickly.

5. **Add the Shrimp and Sausage:**
– Once the cabbage has softened, add the cooked sausage back into the pan.
– Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper, and add them to the pan with the cabbage and sausage. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
– If you like, add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar at this stage to give the dish a little tang and balance the flavors.

6. **Toss and Serve:**
– Once everything is cooked through and well combined, give the dish a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
– Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

7. **Serve:**
– Serve this fried cabbage with shrimp and sausage immediately, either on its own or with a side of rice or cornbread for a complete meal.

#### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
– **Quick and Easy:** This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a meal in a hurry.
– **Packed with Flavor:** The smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and savory cabbage combine for a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
– **One-Pan Meal:** The best part? It’s made in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!
– **Healthy and Satisfying:** With shrimp as a lean protein and cabbage as a low-calorie vegetable, this dish is light but filling, and perfect for those seeking a healthier option.

#### Variations:
– **Add More Veggies:** Feel free to toss in extra veggies like carrots, zucchini, or celery for even more flavor and nutrition.
– **Spicy Version:** Increase the cayenne pepper or add some red pepper flakes to spice things up.
– **Gluten-Free:** This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

This **Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage** is the perfect combination of savory, smoky, and slightly tangy flavors. Whether you’re feeding your family or making a meal for yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy. Try it today for a hearty, healthy meal that’s quick and easy to prepare!