Save A crisp, tangy salad featuring fresh cabbage and a simple vinaigrette, perfect as a side dish for hearty German meals.
I first made this classic German cabbage salad on a chilly fall day to serve alongside schnitzel and mashed potatoes. It brought a refreshing crunch that everyone at the table loved.
Ingredients
- Green cabbage: 1 medium head (about 800 g), finely shredded
- Carrot: 1 small, grated
- Onion: 1 small, finely diced
- White wine vinegar: 4 tbsp
- Sunflower oil: 2 tbsp (or neutral vegetable oil)
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp, freshly ground
- Caraway seeds: 1 tsp, optional
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped, optional (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Cabbage:
- Place the shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with salt and, using clean hands, massage the cabbage for 1–2 minutes to help soften it.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the grated carrot and diced onion to the bowl.
- Mix Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together vinegar, oil, sugar, black pepper, and caraway seeds (if using) until the sugar is dissolved.
- Combine Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to combine.
- Let Flavors Meld:
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld. For best results, refrigerate for 1–2 hours before serving.
- Finish and Garnish:
- Toss again, adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Save When my family gathers around for a Sunday roast, this salad always finds a place on our table. It adds brightness that even picky eaters enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside schnitzel, sausages, roast meats or as a crunchy topping for sandwiches and wraps.
Flavor Variations
Add thinly sliced apples or increase the sugar for a sweeter version, or try extra caraway seeds for a distinctive taste.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 110 calories, 7 g total fat, 11 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save This German cabbage salad is best served cold. Enjoy the fresh crunch at any meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I get the cabbage tender?
Massage shredded cabbage with salt for 1–2 minutes to soften and release moisture before adding other ingredients.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, letting it rest for 1–2 hours in the refrigerator helps enhance the flavors. It keeps well for up to 2 days.
- → What proteins pair well with this dish?
This salad complements schnitzel, roasted meats, or German sausages wonderfully as a refreshing side.
- → Is it suitable for special diets?
Made with vegetarian ingredients and is naturally gluten-free as well as low in carbohydrates.
- → Can I add other vegetables or fruits?
Try adding thinly sliced apples or extra veggies for sweetness and extra color. Personalize to taste!
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Increase the sugar in the dressing up to 2 teaspoons for a sweeter flavor profile if desired.