Fresh & Flavorful: 12 Amish-Style Salads for Spring

Nearly every Amish family has a well-tended garden providing them a steady supply of fresh vegetables throughout the warmer months. Starting in spring, Amish families enjoy a bounty of garden goodies, which they use in fresh salads, cooked dishes, and of course, canning for the winter months. 

This selection of Amish-inspired salads is a great way to make use of garden vegetables in Spring – or any time of year you can get your hands on these simple and wholesome ingredients. ~Erik

Spring is the ideal time to embrace fresh flavors and vibrant ingredients, and what better way to do that than with Amish-inspired salads?

These dishes combine simplicity with freshness, highlighting seasonal produce and wholesome ingredients. Dive into these 12 delightful recipes that are sure to lighten up your meals and bring a taste of the countryside to your table. *Article created with AI assistance

1. Amish Creamy Cucumber Salad

This Amish Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. Its cool, crisp cucumbers are enveloped in a creamy dressing that boasts a hint of tang, making it an ideal side for any meal. Simple to prepare, this salad requires just a handful of ingredients, making it a breeze for any home cook.

The combination of cucumbers and a creamy, seasoned dressing creates a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. Whether served at a family gathering or a casual picnic, this cucumber salad will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dill weed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, dill weed, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and gently fold them into the dressing, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional dill if desired.

2. Amish Sweet And Sour Celery Salad

Amish Sweet and Sour Celery Salad offers an invigorating blend of crisp celery, colorful veggies, and a tangy dressing that balances sweetness and acidity. It’s perfect for spring gatherings, bringing a light and vibrant touch to any table. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it an excellent option for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

The crunch of fresh celery combined with the sweetness of bell peppers and the zesty dressing makes every bite enjoyable. Whether served as a side at a family meal or as part of a potluck spread, this salad is sure to please. It’s a fantastic way to get in those spring flavors while keeping things light!

Ingredients

• 4 cups celery, chopped
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup red onion, sliced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped celery, diced bell peppers, and sliced red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
5. Give it a good stir before serving, and enjoy the fresh, balanced taste!

3. Amish Garden Fresh Lettuce Salad

Amish Garden Fresh Lettuce Salad is a wonderful way to celebrate spring. It’s packed with crisp lettuce and vibrant vegetables, making it a refreshing side dish or a light meal. The combination of flavors is crisp and tangy, perfect for those warmer days when you crave something light yet satisfying.

Best of all, it’s super easy to whip up! With just a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have a salad that’s not only healthy but also colorful and enticing. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a simple lunch at home, this salad is sure to please.

Ingredients

• 6 cups mixed lettuce (green leaf and red leaf)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup salad dressing (your choice)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lettuce: Rinse the mixed lettuce thoroughly and pat dry. Tear or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and shredded carrots.
3. Add the Crunch: Stir in the sunflower seeds for an added crunch.
4. Toss with Dressing: Drizzle your favorite salad dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

4. Amish Cabbage And Carrot Slaw

Amish Cabbage and Carrot Slaw is a crunchy mix that brings freshness to your table. This simple dish marries the sweetness of carrots with the crispness of cabbage, creating a light and punchy side that perfectly complements any meal.

With its creamy dressing and vibrant colors, this slaw not only stands out but is also easy to whip up. It makes for a great addition to picnics, barbecues, or just as a side for dinner. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal veggies!

Ingredients

• 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 cups purple cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 large carrots, grated
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine both types of cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing everything together until evenly coated.
4. Let the slaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy your crunchy, refreshing slaw!

5. Amish Macaroni And Sweet Corn Salad

This Amish Macaroni and Sweet Corn Salad offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect side dish for spring gatherings. This salad combines tender pasta with the sweetness of corn, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing.

Easy to whip up, this salad is ideal for potlucks or family dinners. The combination of colorful bell peppers and fresh herbs adds a vibrant touch, while the macaroni provides a hearty base. Serve it chilled for a cool and inviting complement to any meal!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sweet corn, diced bell peppers, and red onion.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving.

6. Amish Broccoli And Cauliflower Salad

This Amish Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad is the perfect mix of fresh veggies and a creamy dressing. It’s crunchy, slightly sweet, and has just the right amount of tang to keep you coming back for more. Perfect for a spring gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare.

With its blend of broccoli, cauliflower, and a few other colorful ingredients, this salad makes for an eye-catching dish on any table. It’s a great way to enjoy the taste of spring while getting your daily dose of vegetables. Here’s how to whip up this tasty dish!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups fresh cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, red onion, and raisins.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. If using, sprinkle in the chopped walnuts and mix gently.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your fresh, crunchy salad!

7. Amish Potato And Green Bean Salad

Our Amish Potato and Green Bean Salad is a fresh and simple dish that embodies the essence of spring. With tender potatoes and crisp green beans, it’s a dish that balances flavors beautifully. The salad is creamy yet light, making it perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side for a family dinner.

Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a wonderful mix of textures and tastes. The addition of cherry tomatoes adds a sweet burst, while fresh herbs lend a zesty note. This recipe is sure to bring a taste of Amish tradition to your table!

Ingredients

• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes: In a pot of salted water, cook the diced potatoes until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. Cook the Green Beans: In the same pot, add the green beans to boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes until vibrant and tender-crisp. Drain and cool under cold water.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooled potatoes, green beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and fresh dill.
5. Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

8. Amish Radish And Onion Salad

Amish Radish and Onion Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that brings the crispness of spring right to your table. With its crunchy radishes and sweet onions, this salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a quick side dish or a light lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup radishes, sliced
• 1 cup red onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens (like spinach and arugula)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced radishes and onions.
2. Add the mixed greens and toss gently.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit to enhance the flavors.

9. Amish Spinach And Strawberry Salad

This Amish Spinach and Strawberry Salad is a lovely combination of fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, and crunchy walnuts. The mix of flavors perfectly balances the earthiness of the spinach with the juicy sweetness of the strawberries. It’s not just flavorful; it’s also simple to prepare, making it a great choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner.

This salad is ideal for springtime gatherings or picnics, as it brings a burst of color and freshness to any table. Toss in a light dressing, and you’ve got a dish that is sure to impress without requiring too much effort!

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach and sliced strawberries.
2. Add the chopped walnuts and feta cheese, if using.
3. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately, enjoying the fresh flavors of spring!

10. Amish Pea And Cheese Salad

Amish Pea and Cheese Salad blends fresh flavors and is both easy to prepare and satisfying to enjoy. The crisp peas combined with creamy cheese and colorful peppers create a refreshing dish perfect for spring gatherings or family meals. It’s the kind of salad that brings a bit of sunshine to your table, making it a favorite among all ages.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this salad is a breeze to whip up. It pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light lunch. The taste is a lovely balance of sweetness from the peas and a savory punch from the cheese, making each bite enjoyable. Give it a try for a quick and tasty addition to your spring table!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
• 1 cup cubed cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the peas, cheddar cheese, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and red onion.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and gently stir to combine, making sure everything is well coated.
4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!

11. Amish Dandelion Greens Salad

Dandelion greens are an excellent, often overlooked addition to any spring salad, offering a unique, slightly bitter flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients. This Amish-inspired Dandelion Greens Salad is not only fresh and vibrant but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect dish for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions.

The combination of dandelion greens with cherry tomatoes adds a burst of color and sweetness, while a light dressing enhances the natural flavors. This salad is a fantastic way to enjoy the seasonal bounty, and it provides a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals with every bite.

Ingredients

• 4 cups dandelion greens, washed and chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Greens: In a large bowl, combine the chopped dandelion greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and walnuts.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

12. Amish Vinegar Coleslaw With Fresh Herbs

Amish Vinegar Coleslaw is a tangy take on a classic side dish that bursts with flavor. This coleslaw balances crunch from fresh cabbage and colorful veggies with a vinegar-based dressing. It’s light, zesty, and a breeze to whip up, making it the perfect accompaniment for warm-weather gatherings.

This recipe not only pleases the palate but also brings a vibrant splash of color to your table. Enhanced with fresh herbs, it offers a unique twist that sets it apart from traditional slaws. Enjoy it alongside grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread—it’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled as a side dish or on top of sandwiches.

13. Amish Apple And Walnut Spring Salad

Last but not least, this Amish Apple and Walnut Spring Salad blends fresh flavors making for a light yet satisfying dish. Featuring crisp apples and crunchy walnuts, this salad offers a mix of sweet and nutty tastes that are perfect for springtime gatherings or a simple lunch.

Preparing this salad is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it an easy choice for both experienced cooks and beginners alike. The combination of seasonal greens with the added texture of walnuts and the sweetness of apples creates a refreshing and inviting meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
• 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens and sliced apples.
2. Add the chopped walnuts, and if desired, sprinkle in the feta cheese and dried cranberries.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors!