Sauerkraut Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sauerkraut salad is light yet flavorful, balancing the tang of sauerkraut with a sweet dressing and crunchy vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and an excellent alternative to creamy salads. Plus, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for sausages and burgers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 jar sauerkraut (1 liter)
1 green pepper, chopped
1 sweet onion, chopped
2 cups celery, chopped
2 tbsp pimento

Dressing:
1/2 cup white vinegar
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp celery seed

Directions

1. Drain the sauerkraut well and place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the chopped green pepper, onion, celery, and pimento to the sauerkraut. Toss to combine.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, and celery seed. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Pour the dressing over the sauerkraut mixture and stir until evenly coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
6. Stir before serving and enjoy chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours (minimum)
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Add shredded carrots for extra color and sweetness.
• Replace pimento with roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
• Use red onion instead of sweet onion for a sharper bite.
• Swap white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tang.
• Stir in chopped parsley or dill for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Store sauerkraut salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Since it’s a chilled salad, there’s no reheating required—just give it a quick stir before serving. Freezing is not recommended as it will change the texture of the vegetables.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, it tastes better when made the day before, as the flavors have more time to blend.

Do I need to rinse the sauerkraut first?

It’s optional. Rinsing will reduce the tang and saltiness, but if you like a strong sauerkraut flavor, just drain it without rinsing.

Can I use bagged sauerkraut instead of jarred?

Yes, as long as it’s about 1 liter (or 4 cups). Both work well in this recipe.

How can I make the dressing less sweet?

Reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup or substitute with honey for a more natural sweetness.

Is sauerkraut salad healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with fiber, probiotics (if using raw sauerkraut), and fresh vegetables. The only indulgent part is the sugar in the dressing, which you can adjust.

Can I use red or yellow peppers instead of green?

Absolutely. Any bell pepper works, and different colors add more visual appeal.

What does pimento add to the salad?

Pimento provides mild sweetness and color. You can omit it if unavailable.

Can I make this recipe sugar-free?

Yes, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to make it lower in calories.

What main dishes pair well with sauerkraut salad?

It’s excellent alongside grilled sausages, barbecue chicken, or deli sandwiches.

How long does the salad need to chill before serving?

At least 4 hours is recommended, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.

Conclusion

Sauerkraut salad is a tangy, crisp, and refreshing dish that’s both versatile and easy to prepare. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or family dinners, it adds a zesty crunch to any table. With its balance of sweet, sour, and savory, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Print