Sniffing the air, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen—a cacophony of scents dancing around as my grandmother prepared her famous Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad. This Eastern European staple is a flavorful symphony of tangy sauerkraut and crisp red onions, making it a must-have side dish for any gathering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it’s quick to throw together and gets even better when allowed to chill overnight, allowing the flavors to meld into a perfect harmony. Plus, it’s a healthy upgrade to those uninspiring fast-food choices, leaving you feeling revitalized and satisfied. Are you ready to bring a taste of nostalgia to your table with this delightful salad?

What Makes This Salad So Special?

Nostalgic Comfort: This Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad evokes memories of warm family gatherings, making it more than just a dish.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a refreshing salad ready to enhance any meal in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The tangy sauerkraut paired with the sweet crunch of red onions creates a delightful taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile Serving: Perfect as a side or a topping for sandwiches, this salad seamlessly complements grilled meats, making it your new go-to for gatherings.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers for up to a week; the flavors only get better as they meld, making it ideal for busy days ahead.
Consider pairing it with Shredded Thai Salad for a complete meal!

Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad Ingredients

• Get ready to create a classic dish!

For the Salad

Sauerkraut – A tangy base that defines the salad; opt for store-bought for convenience or homemade for a more personalized touch.
Red Onion – Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch; yellow onion can be a great substitute if needed.

Optional Additions

Shredded Carrots – Introduces sweetness and extra crunch to the mix; they also add a pop of color.
Bell Peppers – Can be included for an added layer of flavor and texture; choose red or yellow for vibrant hues.
Chopped Parsley or Dill – Fresh herbs enhance the overall taste; they bring a delightful brightness to the tangy salad.

This Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad is packed with flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad

Step 1: Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, begin by draining your store-bought or homemade sauerkraut thoroughly to avoid a watery salad. Add the sauerkraut to the bowl and then chop half a medium-sized red onion into small pieces, mixing it into the sauerkraut until well blended. This should take about 2 minutes of gentle stirring to ensure even distribution.

Step 2: Mix It Up
Next, using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix the sauerkraut and red onion together thoroughly. The goal is to incorporate the sweetness of the onion with the tangy bite of the sauerkraut, which only takes about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the bowl is filled with a colorful mixture that has a delightful crunch.

Step 3: Let the Flavors Marry
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and set it aside at room temperature for at least 15 minutes. This short resting period allows the flavors of the Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad to develop. You’ll start to notice the vibrant aroma as the ingredients mingle, giving your salad its signature taste.

Step 4: Chill for Best Results
For the best flavor, transfer the salad to the refrigerator and let it chill for a few hours or, even better, overnight. This extra time allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, making the salad even more refreshing. When you take it out the next day, the colors will be bright, and the texture will be perfectly crunchy.

Step 5: Serve It Up
When you’re ready to serve, give the Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad a quick stir to refresh its texture. Scoop portions into bowls or serve it as a vibrant topping for grilled meats. Its tangy flavor and crunchy texture make it an irresistible side dish that will have everyone reaching for more.

How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad

Fridge: Store the Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors become more delightful as they meld over time.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving; some textures may slightly change.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. If you’ve mixed in extra ingredients, give it a good stir before serving to refresh its texture.
Airtight Guidance: Ensure the container is airtight to lock in freshness and maintain flavor integrity while stored in the fridge or freezer.

Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad Variations

Customize your Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad to suit your tastes and dietary preferences with these delicious twists! Each option offers a unique flavor or texture experience that invites your creative side to shine.

Milder Onions: Substitute red onion with green onions for a more subtle flavor, perfect for those who prefer lighter tastes.
Crunchy Carrots: Add shredded carrots to the mix for a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness, elevating the salad’s texture beautifully.
Vibrant Bell Peppers: Incorporate diced bell peppers for an extra burst of color and sweetness; red or yellow varieties work wonderfully here.
Herbed Freshness: Try tossing in chopped parsley or dill to bring a fresh, herby note that brightens every bite.
Creamy Twist: For a creamy variation, blend in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to create a luscious, tangy dressing.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist that delivers an unexpected heat!
Nutty Flavor: Include chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds for an added crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tangy base.
Mixed Greens: Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing, leafy contrast, making it a fuller, more vibrant dish.

Pair this iconic salad with sides like Cucumber Salad Deliciously or Mango Cucumber Salad for a delightful meal!

Make Ahead Options

Transform your busy weeknights with the Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad, which is ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the salad components up to 24 hours in advance by thoroughly mixing the sauerkraut and diced red onion in a bowl, then refrigerating it. To enhance the flavors, let it chill overnight, allowing them to marry beautifully—this also helps maintain that delightful crunch. For optimal freshness, keep the salad covered in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply give the salad a quick stir and enjoy the same vibrant taste that’s just as delicious as when freshly made.

What to Serve with Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad

Indulge in a delightful medley of flavors that can turn your meal into a culinary celebration.

Grilled Sausages: The smoky, savory notes of grilled sausages pair perfectly with the tangy crunch of sauerkraut salad, creating a satisfying balance.
Roasted Chicken: Juicy roast chicken brings a comforting warmth that complements the crisp tanginess of the salad, transforming any dinner into a feast.
Potato Salad: The creamy, rich textures of a classic potato salad play wonderfully against the crunch of the sauerkraut, creating a lovely contrast on the plate.
Brown Bread: Hearty, dense brown bread, with its nutty undertones, makes every bite of your meal a comforting experience, inviting you to savor each flavor.
Pickled Vegetables: Add a zing with some homemade pickled vegetables; their sharpness will elevate both dishes, enhancing the entire meal with vibrant flavors.
A Light White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, refreshes your palate and enhances the tangy notes of the Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad.
Apple Crisp: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp; the sweet-spiced flavors serve as a delightful contrast to the tangy salad.

Mix and match these pairings, and let each bite transport you back to those cherished family gatherings!

Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad

Drain the Sauerkraut: Ensure you thoroughly drain the sauerkraut to prevent a soggy salad. This helps maintain the desired crunchiness.
Enhance Flavors: Consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of vinegar for an extra layer of flavor in your Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad.
Chill Time Matters: Allow the salad to sit overnight in the refrigerator; this lets the ingredients fully meld and develop a deeper taste.
Customization Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers for added texture and color.
Serving Temperature: Serve the salad chilled for the best refreshing experience, especially on warm days or alongside grilled meats.

Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad Recipe FAQs

What kind of sauerkraut should I use?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought sauerkraut for convenience, or homemade if you feel adventurous! For a fresher taste, homemade sauerkraut is often fermented for at least 2-4 weeks, allowing those delicious flavors to develop.

How should I store the salad?
Very! To store your Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad, keep it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to one week, and as the flavors meld, it actually becomes more delightful. Just give it a stir before serving!

Can I freeze Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad?
The more the merrier! You can freeze this salad for up to 3 months. To do this, place it in an airtight container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, so give it a stir before serving!

How can I enhance the flavors of the salad?
For sure! You can elevate your Old Fashioned Sauerkraut Salad by adding a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of vinegar to enhance its tangy flavors. Plus, consider mixing in chopped herbs like parsley or dill, which add a lovely freshness and vibrant color!

Is this salad suitable for my dog?
Definitely! While sauerkraut can be safe for dogs in small amounts, avoid adding ingredients like onions and seasonings. Onions can be toxic to dogs, so if you want to share some salad, serve plain sauerkraut without any additives and consult your vet for advice.