Crisp Kraut Salad
A crisp, tangy kraut salad featuring shredded vegetables and a sweet-sour dressing, perfect as a refreshing side dish for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Turn kraut into a colander and drain, pressing out all liquid.
- Combine in a bowl the drained kraut, pimentos, chopped onion, celery, shredded carrots, and chopped green bell pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper, then stir until dissolved.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, let the salad sit overnight in the refrigerator. You can substitute the sugar with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing. This recipe can also incorporate other vegetables like cucumber for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Crisp Kraut Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread. It pairs beautifully with Peachy Chutney for a sweet and tangy contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a hearty sandwich or wrap. This dish also complements American recipes like barbecue or fried chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Crisp Kraut Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier after a day. If the salad appears too watery, drain excess liquid before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture of the vegetables may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crisp Kraut Salad contains roughly 249 calories, with 4g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 927mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! In fact, it tastes better after being refrigerated for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld. You can prepare it a day in advance and simply give it a good toss before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This Crisp Kraut Salad is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. It’s a great option for a vegan picnic or barbecue, and the combination of vegetables provides a satisfying crunch and refreshing flavor without any dairy or meat.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, especially grilled meats like chicken or pork. Consider serving it alongside Three Bean Salad With Sweet And Sour Dressing for a colorful and diverse spread. It also works as a topping for sandwiches or burgers, adding a zesty crunch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).