German Sauerkraut Salad
A tangy and crunchy German sauerkraut salad with sweet pimentos and fresh vegetables, perfect as a side dish or relish for hearty meats like bratwurst and burgers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator overnight.
- Drain the salad before serving.
- Serve as a side dish or relish for bratwurst or burgers. Will keep for one week.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your German Sauerkraut Salad, let it sit for at least 24 hours before serving, as this allows the ingredients to meld together. For a twist, consider adding diced apples or shredded carrots for sweetness and crunch. If white wine vinegar isn’t available, apple cider vinegar can be a great substitute. Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer a less sweet salad.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a fantastic side dish for bratwurst or burgers, making it perfect for barbecues or picnics. Serve it chilled for a refreshing contrast to warm meats. It also pairs beautifully with Whole Wheat French Bread for a complete meal. For a lighter option, enjoy it alongside a green salad or as a topping on sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, so it's best consumed within a week. If the salad becomes too watery, simply drain it before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the vegetables may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Sauerkraut Salad contains roughly 339 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2355mg per serving (102% 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 use fresh sauerkraut instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh sauerkraut. Just make sure to rinse it well to reduce the saltiness and acidity. Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to balance the flavors according to your taste.
How can I make this salad vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it doesn’t contain any animal products. Just ensure that the pimentos are packed without any non-vegan ingredients. It’s a great option for those looking for vegan recipes.
What other dishes can I serve with this salad?
Besides bratwurst and burgers, this salad complements grilled chicken and fish nicely. It can also be served alongside dishes like Apple Chutney for a sweet contrast, or as a relish to enhance your favorite sandwiches.
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).