Oma's Traditional German Sauerkraut Salad (Sauerkrautsalat)
My German sauerkraut salad is an easy, healthy 'pickle-style' side ... bright, crunchy, and perfect for summer buffets or picnics.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Standing Time:
2 - 3 hours
Total Time:
3+ hours
Servings:
makes 4 to 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 - 3 cups (320 - 480 g) sauerkraut
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 large carrot, coarsely grated
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- ½ onion, diced
- salt and freshly ground pepper
Instructions:
- Drain sauerkraut in a sieve over a bowl. Measure ½ cup of liquid and reserve.
- Put the drained sauerkraut into a large bowl. Mix in sugar.
- Let sit about 15 minutes. Add ½ cup reserved sauerkraut liquid and oil.
- Add remaining ingredients.
- Season with freshly ground pepper, salt, and extra sugar, if required.
- Let stand in fridge for several hours, if possible, before serving.
Notes/Hints:
- As with most salads, quantities are just approximate. Add extra or less of what you like.
- Optional additions are red or green onions, cucumbers, radishes, and even grated beets.
- This is best made with fresh sauerkraut, but you can use jarred, canned, or frozen as well.
- If you have more sauerkraut than needed for this salad, then turn it into this traditional amazing sauerkraut soup!
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Unless otherwise noted recipe, images and content © Just like Oma | www.quick-german-recipes.com
Recipe updated on June 12, 2025