Reuben Salad
A hearty and tangy salad combining corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and fresh herbs, perfect for a flavorful lunch or casual dinner with crunchy rye croutons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the drained sauerkraut, chopped dill pickle, and chopped parsley or cilantro together.
- Layer half of the chopped Romaine lettuce on a serving platter.
- Spread half of the sauerkraut mixture over the lettuce.
- Add half of the chopped roast beef on top.
- Sprinkle half of the grated Swiss cheese over the beef.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining lettuce, sauerkraut mixture, roast beef, and Swiss cheese.
- Spread with your preferred dressing.
- Serve the salad sprinkled with rye croutons or accompanied by toasted slices of rye bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the dill pickle with sweet pickles for a different taste profile. You can also use leftover corned beef from making Corned Beef And Cabbage Salad for a more traditional flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, opt for turkey or chicken instead of roast beef. Fresh herbs can enhance the freshness, so feel free to experiment with other herbs.
Serving Suggestions
This Reuben Salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a hearty side dish at dinner. Pair it with a side of baked potato wedges or a simple tomato soup for a complete meal. It also goes well with crusty bread or a light vinaigrette dressing. For a twist, serve alongside some Smoked Sausage With Cabbage And Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Reuben Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispness of the lettuce, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. When reheating any components like roast beef, do so gently in the microwave to avoid drying it out, but it's best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Reuben Salad contains roughly 1062 calories, with 66g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (266% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (156% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2259mg per serving (98% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it's best to assemble the salad right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. You can mix the sauerkraut, pickles, and herbs a day ahead, and store them in the fridge. Just layer everything and add the dressing when you're ready to serve.
What type of dressing works best with this salad?
A classic choice would be a thousand island or a creamy dressing, which complements the flavors of the sauerkraut and beef. You can also try a tangy vinaigrette for a lighter option. If you're feeling adventurous, a homemade dressing with a hint of horseradish can elevate the dish further.
Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian Reuben Salad by omitting the roast beef and substituting it with marinated tofu or tempeh for protein. Additionally, consider using vegan cheese alternatives to keep it plant-based. This way, you can enjoy the same great flavors without the meat.
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).