- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Side Dish
- Calories: Approximately 110 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional)
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the cabbage thoroughly and remove any damaged outer leaves. Slice it into thin strips and place it into a large mixing bowl. Peel and grate the carrots, then add them to the bowl. Thinly slice the onion and mix it with the cabbage and carrots. If using fresh parsley, chop it finely and stir it into the vegetables.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, vegetable oil, water, salt, black pepper, and celery seed if desired. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Do not allow the mixture to boil vigorously. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly for several minutes.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Pour the warm dressing evenly over the vegetables. Toss well until every piece is lightly coated with the dressing. The warm dressing slightly softens the cabbage while allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 4: Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the vegetables to absorb the dressing and develop a brighter flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Give the salad one final toss before serving. Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish with roasted meats, sandwiches, grilled chicken, potatoes, or hearty soups.
Tips for Success
- Slice the cabbage as thinly as possible for the best texture.
- Fresh vegetables provide the best flavor and crunch.
- Allow enough chilling time so the dressing fully flavors the vegetables.
- Taste before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
- For extra sweetness, add a few raisins.
- Chopped apples can add a pleasant fruity flavor.
- Sunflower seeds or chopped peanuts provide additional crunch.
- A small amount of mayonnaise can create a creamier version if desired.
Storage
Store leftover Depression Era Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving because the vegetables naturally release moisture as they sit. Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables lose their crisp texture after thawing.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs wonderfully with:
- Roast chicken
- Meatloaf
- Grilled hamburgers
- Fried potatoes
- Baked beans
- Homemade bread
- Vegetable soup
- Pulled pork sandwiches
It also makes an excellent addition to picnics, potlucks, family dinners, and barbecue gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Crisp and refreshing
- Naturally colorful
- Perfect for meal prep
- Family-friendly
- Great for holidays and everyday meals
- Inspired by classic American home cooking
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Total Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Vitamin A: 70% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 45% Daily Value
- Calcium: 4% Daily Value
- Iron: 5% Daily Value