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Pennsylvania Dutch Pepper Cabbage Recipe

4.9 from 121 reviews

Pennsylvania Dutch Pepper Cabbage is a classic, tangy vegetable salad featuring shredded green cabbage, diced green pepper, celery, and grated carrots dressed in a sweet and tangy vinegar-based dressing. This refreshing side dish is chilled to enhance its crisp texture and bold flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 cups shredded raw green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup finely diced green pepper
  • 1/2 cup finely diced celery
  • 1/4 cup grated carrots

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 5 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Place the shredded green cabbage, finely diced green pepper, celery, and grated carrots together in a large glass bowl, ensuring they are evenly mixed for consistent flavor in every bite.
  2. Make the dressing: In a smaller bowl, combine the cold water, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved to create a balanced sweet and tangy dressing.
  3. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables in the large bowl. Use a spoon or salad tongs to thoroughly mix and coat all the vegetables with the dressing.
  4. Chill to develop flavors: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill until cold, at least 1 hour, so the flavors meld and the cabbage softens slightly while retaining crunch.

Notes

  • For best flavor, prepare the salad several hours ahead or the day before serving to let the dressing fully penetrate the vegetables.
  • This salad is best served cold and makes a great side dish for barbecues, picnics, and hearty meat dishes common in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.
  • Adjust the amount of sugar or vinegar to your taste preference for sweetness or acidity.
  • Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
  • Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Pennsylvania Dutch salad, cabbage salad, vinegar dressing, cold vegetable salad, side dish