A Taste of Germany in Every Bite
Imagine sitting at a rustic wooden table in a cozy German kitchen, the aroma of warm potatoes and tangy pickles filling the air. German cuisine is famous for its hearty, satisfying flavors, and this Ultimate German Salad captures the essence of comfort food with a refreshing twist.
This simple yet flavorful salad combines tender potatoes, crunchy red cabbage, pickled cucumbers, sweet peas, and aromatic onions to create a dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Whether served as a side dish for sausages, schnitzel, or roasted meats, or enjoyed on its own, this salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Let’s dive into this authentic German salad recipe that will become your new favorite dish.
Why You’ll Love This German Salad Recipe
✔️ Authentic Flavor: A classic German combination of potatoes, cabbage, and pickles.
✔️ Simple & Easy: Made with readily available ingredients and minimal prep time.
✔️ Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins.
✔️ Versatile: Enjoy as a side dish, light lunch, or meal prep option.
✔️ Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or festive gatherings.
Ingredients for the Ultimate German Salad
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | 600g | Provides a hearty, starchy base |
| Red Cabbage | 300g, shredded | Adds crunch and vibrant color |
| Onion | 1 large, diced | Enhances the salad with depth of flavor |
| Pickled Cucumbers | 6, finely chopped | Adds tangy contrast |
| Canned Peas | 200g, drained and rinsed | Contributes sweetness and freshness |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Balances and enhances all flavors |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Potatoes
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly but leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients.
- Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil.
- Let them simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Cabbage
- Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shred the red cabbage into thin strips.
- Place it in a large mixing bowl, ready to absorb all the flavors.
3. Dice the Onion
- Peel and finely dice the onion.
- Add it to the cabbage, allowing its mild sharpness to blend into the salad.
4. Chop the Pickles
- Take six pickled cucumbers (gherkin-style pickles work best).
- Chop them into small pieces to distribute the tangy flavor evenly.
5. Add the Peas
- Drain and rinse the canned peas to remove excess brine.
- Add them to the bowl for a touch of sweetness and texture contrast.
6. Assemble & Season
- Gently mix all the prepared ingredients in the large bowl.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Let It Rest & Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad one final toss and transfer to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Healthy Fats | 2g |
This low-fat, high-fiber dish is perfect for a balanced, nutritious meal!
Tips for the Best German Salad
🔹 Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Red Bliss for the best texture.
🔹 For extra flavor, add a splash of pickle juice to the salad dressing.
🔹 Let it rest overnight—this salad tastes even better the next day!
🔹 Experiment with add-ins like bacon bits, mustard, or fresh parsley.
🔹 For a creamy version, mix in a little sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to blend. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. What can I serve with this German salad?
It pairs perfectly with grilled sausages, schnitzel, roast chicken, or even as a side for BBQ dishes.
3. Can I use fresh peas instead of canned peas?
Absolutely! Simply blanch fresh peas in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding them.
4. Is this salad vegan-friendly?
Yes! This authentic German salad is completely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians.
5. Can I add a dressing?
Traditionally, this salad is served lightly seasoned, but you can add a simple vinaigrette with olive oil, mustard, and vinegar if desired.
6. Can I use white cabbage instead of red cabbage?
Yes, white cabbage works too! However, red cabbage adds more antioxidants and a beautiful color.
Final Thoughts: A Hearty and Flavorful German Salad You’ll Love
This Ultimate German Salad is simple, delicious, and packed with fresh ingredients that come together to create a perfectly balanced dish. The combination of creamy potatoes, crunchy red cabbage, tangy pickles, and sweet peas makes this salad irresistible!
Whether you’re making it for a family meal, a BBQ, or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit on any table. Plus, it’s healthy, easy to prepare, and completely customizable.