I have to say that one of my absolute favorite summer dishes is this Old Fashion Sauerkraut Salad. Every time I whip this up, I can’t help but think of my grandmother, who used to make it for our family gatherings. The blend of tangy sauerkraut and fresh veggies is so refreshing, and let’s be honest—it’s a colorful explosion that looks gorgeous on any picnic table. This salad is one of those recipes that’s stood the test of time, and personally, I believe it deserves a spot at every summer gathering or holiday feast!
Let me tell you, this salad is a vibe! It’s not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies and give your guests something unique. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time—what’s not to love? Alright, let’s jump into how we can bring this delightful dish to life!
What’s in Old Fashion Sauerkraut Salad?
- Sauerkraut: The star of the show! A 16 oz jar of drained and rinsed core flavor for this salad. I prefer a good quality brand like Farmer’s that really delivers that tangy punch.
- Green cabbage: A cup of chopped green cabbage adds even more crunch and great color!
- Shredded carrots: Sweet, colorful, and packed with nutrients, a cup of shredded carrots makes the salad pop and adds a slight sweetness.
- Red cabbage: This adds a beautiful mauve hue and adds additional texture. Half a cup is all you need for that flat-out fabulous look.
- Bell pepper: I love any color bell pepper for this recipe; they add flavor and crunch! You could go with any color, but I usually opt for red or yellow for that sweet, juicy taste.
- Red onion: For a mild, sweet bite, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion is perfect.
- Fresh parsley: For that touch of freshness and vibrant green color, use 1/4 cup of chopped parsley.
- Granulated sugar: Just a 1/4 cup to balance the tanginess of the sauerkraut and vinegar. Don’t worry; it won’t turn it into a dessert!
- Apple cider vinegar: Six tablespoons add that tangy zing we adore!
- Vegetable oil: 1/4 cup gives it the dressing base we need for a smooth mix.
- Dijon mustard: Just 1 teaspoon to add a bit of depth and flavor to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for that all-important seasoning!
Is Old Fashion Sauerkraut Salad Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This salad gives a good dose of veggies while tantalizing our taste buds. The sauerkraut is fermented, which means it’s packed with probiotics—great for gut health! The cabbage and carrots add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this salad pretty nutritious. Plus, the apple cider vinegar perks up your digestion. Of course, it does have sugar, so if you’re mindful of your sweet intake, you could reduce it or substitute with a natural sweetener.
Generally, this salad is a wonderful side dish that helps lighten up those heavier meals. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats and is a perfect option for potlucks or barbecues!
Ingredients List
- 1 jar (16 oz) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chopped green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Old Fashion Sauerkraut Salad?
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed sauerkraut, green cabbage, shredded carrots, red cabbage, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, vegetable oil, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together until it’s evenly coated with that tangy goodness.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight). This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Taste is everything!
Extras to Elevate Your Old Fashion Sauerkraut Salad
- For an added crunch, throw in some chopped apples or a handful of nuts.
- If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it that extra kick.
- This salad can also be served cold or at room temperature, making it super versatile for any occasion.
So there you have it! The Old Fashion Sauerkraut Salad is not just a dish; it’s a story on a plate. It’s easy to make and full of delightful flavors that come together in perfect harmony. I promise, once you try making this, it will bring back memories and good times, just like it does for me. Give it a whirl, and I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy cooking!
