Copper Pennies Recipe (with Video)

Copper Pennies Recipe: Ever heard of a dish that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly tangy? That’s exactly what Copper Pennies are. No, we’re not talking about coins here. We’re talking about a sweet and sour carrot salad that’s been around for decades. The name comes from the shiny, bright orange slices of carrot that resemble—you guessed it—copper pennies. This dish is often served cold and has a unique punch thanks to its vinegar-based marinade. It’s a colorful, vibrant addition to any potluck, holiday dinner, or BBQ.

What makes Copper Pennies special is their simplicity and flavor. Despite being made from everyday pantry ingredients, they pack a punch of taste. The marinade seeps into the tender carrots and onions, creating a balance between sweet and tangy that gets better the longer it sits. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or using it as a topping for sandwiches or burgers, it’s a must-have Southern staple.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Recipe

Copper Pennies are the kind of dish that generations have passed down. It’s the kind of recipe you find in your grandmother’s cookbook—stained with oil but full of flavor memories. So why do people love this dish so much?

• Easy to make: No fancy tools or skills required. If you can boil water, you can make this recipe.
• Make-ahead friendly: It tastes even better the next day.
• Perfect for gatherings: It’s a crowd-pleaser that travels well.
• Versatile: Serve it as a salad, a side dish, or even as a topping.
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, common ingredients.

Plus, with its bright orange color and sweet tangy glaze, it adds both flavor and flair to your meal.

The History Behind Copper Pennies Salad

The roots of the Copper Pennies recipe trace back to Southern kitchens in the mid-20th century. It became especially popular in the 1960s and ‘70s when convenience cooking was on the rise. Carrots, being affordable and easy to store, became a staple in households. This salad was a way to transform simple ingredients into something exciting.

Originally published in community cookbooks and passed around in church potlucks, Copper Pennies earned its place as a comfort food favorite. Over time, variations have appeared—some with bell peppers, others with celery or tomato soup. But at its heart, the dish remains the same: sweet carrots in a punchy marinade.

Today, it’s not just a dish of the past. Foodies and home cooks alike are reviving Copper Pennies, proving that classic recipes never go out of style.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

Believe it or not, this sweet and sour salad can be good for you too! Let’s break down the benefits of its key ingredients:

• Carrots: High in beta carotene (great for vision), fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A, K1, and potassium.
• Onions: Rich in antioxidants and compounds that support heart health and immunity.
• Bell peppers (if added): Loaded with Vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Vinegar: Aids digestion and has antimicrobial properties.
• Olive oil (optional): Heart-healthy fats that support cholesterol balance.

Sure, there’s some sugar in the mix, but overall, Copper Pennies can be a surprisingly nutritious choice—especially if you tweak the sugar content.

List of Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of classic Copper Pennies. You probably already have most of this in your kitchen.

Fresh Produce:

• 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced (optional for crunch and color)

Pantry Staples:

• ½ cup white sugar (can reduce to ⅓ cup for less sweetness)
• ½ cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup vegetable oil or olive oil
• ½ cup tomato soup (canned, like Campbell’s, is traditional)
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard (or Dijon mustard as an alternative)
• ½ teaspoon celery seed (adds a unique flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• Chopped celery
• Red bell peppers
• Garlic powder or minced garlic for extra flavor
• A pinch of chili flakes for heat

These ingredients come together to create that irresistible sweet, sour, and savory flavor profile that makes Copper Pennies a Southern favorite.

Kitchen Tools Required

Let’s keep it simple. You’ll need:

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Vegetable peeler
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Airtight container or casserole dish for marinating

No fancy gadgets. Just good old kitchen basics.

Prep Work Before Cooking

Before you dive into the recipe, a bit of prep can make your process smoother.

1. Wash and peel the carrots – Use fresh, firm carrots for best results.
2. Slice the carrots evenly – Aim for consistent thickness so they cook evenly.
3. Thinly slice the onion – A mandoline can help with this.
4. Optional: prep bell peppers or celery – Rinse and slice thin.

Once your veggies are sliced, lay them aside and move on to making the marinade.

How to Slice the Carrots Perfectly

This step might seem basic, but it makes a huge difference in both texture and appearance. The goal? Evenly sliced rounds that resemble shiny little pennies.

• Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer – This ensures clean cuts and uniform size.
• Aim for about ¼ inch thickness – Too thick and they won’t absorb the marinade; too thin and they’ll go mushy.
• Try a diagonal slice for a fancier presentation.

Once sliced, give them a quick rinse and move on to cooking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Copper Pennies

Now comes the fun part! Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Step 1: Boiling the Carrots

Peel the carrots and slice them into thin, even rounds. Place them in a pot of boiling salted water and cook until just tender but not mushy. Drain well and allow them to cool slightly. Properly cooked carrots hold their shape and absorb the marinade better.

Step 2: Preparing the Marinade

In a saucepan, combine tomato soup, vinegar, sugar, vegetable oil, sliced onions, and bell peppers. Add salt, black pepper, and a pinch of mustard or celery seed if desired. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is well blended.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Place the cooked carrots in a large bowl or container. Pour the hot marinade over the carrots, making sure they are fully coated. Gently stir to distribute the onions and peppers evenly without breaking the carrots.

Step 4: Marinating Process

Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the carrots to soak up the sweet-and-tangy flavors and develop their signature taste.

Bright, tangy, and slightly sweet—copper pennies are a classic make-ahead side dish that gets better with time 🥕✨

How Long Should It Marinate?

The marination time is where the magic really happens. While you might be tempted to sneak a bite right after mixing everything together, try to hold off—your patience will be rewarded.

Ideally, Copper Pennies should marinate for at least 12 hours, but for maximum flavor, allow them to chill in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours. During this time, the vinegar and sugar break down the carrots slightly and infuse them with that addictive sweet-and-sour flavor. The onions soften and mellow out, and the entire mixture becomes a well-balanced, tangy delight.

Remember to give it a gentle stir once or twice while it chills. This helps ensure every slice is evenly coated and absorbs the marinade fully. After 24 hours, you’ll notice the carrots have a glossier, deeper color—this is a sign that the marinade has penetrated properly.

Tips for the Best Flavor

Want your Copper Pennies to stand out from the crowd? Here are some tried-and-true tips that take this classic dish to the next level:

• Don’t overcook the carrots: Slightly firm is best. Overcooked carrots can become mushy and won’t hold their shape well.
• Use fresh produce: The fresher your carrots, onions, and peppers, the brighter the flavor.
• Warm the marinade slightly: A warm marinade helps the carrots absorb flavor faster.
• Let it chill overnight: The longer it marinates, the deeper the flavor.
• Add color: Mix in both red and green bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
• Balance is key: Taste the marinade before pouring it over the veggies. If it’s too sweet or too sour, adjust accordingly.

These small adjustments can make a big difference in the final outcome, so don’t skip them!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Copper Pennies are super simple to make, there are a few pitfalls you’ll want to avoid:

1. Overcooking the carrots: If they’re too soft, they’ll fall apart during marination and lose their satisfying texture.
2. Using too much vinegar or sugar: This can throw off the balance of flavors. Stick to the recipe the first time, then tweak to your taste.
3. Not marinating long enough: This dish gets better with time. Don’t rush it!
4. Not draining the carrots: Extra water will dilute the marinade. Make sure your carrots are well-drained before mixing.
5. Skipping the onion or bell pepper: These aren’t just filler—they balance the flavor and add textural variety.

Avoiding these common issues will help you nail it on the first try.

Serving Suggestions

You’ve let it chill. The flavors are locked in. Now how do you serve Copper Pennies? The beauty of this dish is how versatile it is:

• Cold side salad at summer barbecues, picnics, or holiday dinners.
• Paired with grilled meats like BBQ chicken, ribs, or pork chops.
• Alongside sandwiches, especially pulled pork or brisket.
• Topped on a green salad for a flavorful twist.
• In a bento box or lunch meal prep, it holds up well and adds a punch of flavor.

Pro tip: Serve it in a clear glass bowl to show off those beautiful orange and red tones—it makes a great visual impact on the table!

How to Store Copper Pennies

Proper storage is key to keeping your dish fresh and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. The flavor will continue to develop.
• Glass over plastic: Glass containers are ideal because vinegar can sometimes react with plastic.
• Don’t drain the marinade until you’re ready to serve. It keeps the carrots moist and flavorful.

If you’re making this for a potluck or meal prep, Copper Pennies are the ultimate make-ahead winner.

Can You Freeze Copper Pennies?

Surprisingly, yes—you can freeze Copper Pennies! That makes it even more convenient.

Here’s how:

• Let the salad marinate for at least 24 hours.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Note: The texture may be slightly softer after thawing, but the flavor holds up well. It’s not exactly like fresh, but still very tasty and practical.

How Long Do Copper Pennies Last?

If stored properly in the fridge:

• Freshly made: Best eaten within 7 days.
• Frozen: Can last up to 2 months.

Because the marinade acts as a natural preservative, this dish keeps better than most salads. Just be sure to stir it occasionally and keep it tightly sealed.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

Love the idea of Copper Pennies but want to put your own spin on it? Try these tasty twists:

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce.
• Asian-Inspired: Swap vinegar with rice vinegar and add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil.
• Italian Version: Add oregano, basil, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
• Tex-Mex: Add corn, black beans, and a lime-cilantro vinaigrette.

The base recipe is a blank canvas—feel free to customize it according to your taste!

Vegan and Gluten-Free Adaptations

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free (with one small check):

• Check your tomato soup: Some brands use dairy or wheat. Look for a vegan/gluten-free version or use tomato puree with your own seasoning.
• Worcestershire sauce swap: Traditional versions contain anchovies. Use a vegan version or a dash of soy sauce instead.

With those simple swaps, Copper Pennies can be enjoyed by just about anyone at the table.

FAQs about Copper Pennies Recipe

1. Can I use baby carrots instead of slicing regular ones?

Technically yes, but it’s not ideal. Baby carrots won’t absorb the marinade as well and may result in a less flavorful salad.

2. Is Copper Pennies served hot or cold?

Always cold. It’s a chilled salad, which makes it refreshing and perfect for warmer weather or big meals.

3. Can I reduce the sugar content?

Absolutely! You can cut it down by ¼ cup or use a sugar substitute. Just taste the marinade and adjust as needed.

4. What’s the best vinegar to use?

White vinegar is traditional, but apple cider vinegar adds a nice depth and slightly fruity flavor.

5. Can I make it more savory?

Sure! Add minced garlic, more onions, or swap out tomato soup for crushed tomatoes with extra seasoning.

Conclusion

Copper Pennies are one of those humble, retro recipes that never go out of style. With their bold sweet-and-sour flavor, vibrant appearance, and make-ahead convenience, they’re a guaranteed hit whether you’re hosting a BBQ or prepping your weekly meals.

Give it a try—slice those carrots, whip up the tangy marinade, and let the magic happen in your fridge. Trust us: you’ll be making this on repeat.