Warm Apple and Sauerkraut Skillet Salad (Printer-friendly)

Caramelized apples meet tangy sauerkraut in this vibrant warm skillet salad with fresh greens and toasted nuts.

# What You'll Need:

→ Produce

01 - 2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Gala variety), cored and sliced
02 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
03 - 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
04 - 2 cups baby spinach or arugula

→ Fats & Oils

05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter

→ Seasonings

06 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, adjusted to taste
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground caraway seeds, optional
09 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

→ Garnishes

10 - 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans, chopped
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
02 - Add sliced apples and onions. Sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples develop golden color and onions become tender.
03 - Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the mixture, sprinkle with caraway seeds if using, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat evenly and cook for 1 additional minute.
04 - Reduce heat to low. Fold in drained sauerkraut and warm through for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through without drying out.
05 - Remove from heat. Gently toss in baby spinach or arugula until just wilted from residual heat.
06 - Transfer to a serving platter. Top with toasted nuts and fresh parsley.
07 - Serve immediately at warm or room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The contrast between sweet caramelized apples and tangy sauerkraut creates this incredible flavor harmony that even skeptical eaters find themselves craving.
  • Its somehow both comforting and refreshing, making it perfect alongside heavier winter meals or as a light but satisfying lunch on its own.
02 -
  • Dont overcook the sauerkraut or youll lose both the beneficial probiotics and that distinctive tangy bite that makes this dish special.
  • The salad actually tastes even better after sitting for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to settle and marry before serving.
03 -
  • After accidentally letting my apples caramelize a bit too long once, I discovered those darker, almost jam-like pieces became everyone's favorite bites, so now I intentionally let some pieces get extra golden.
  • A tiny splash of apple cider vinegar added right at the end brightens all the flavors and brings a remarkable balance that makes this simple dish taste professionally crafted.
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