Brussels Kale Salad – 5 Ingredients for Fall Flavor

Brussels kale salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that combines the earthy flavors of kale and Brussels sprouts with the crunchiness of toasted pecans and the savory bite of bacon and sharp cheddar. It’s the perfect balance of nutritious vegetables and indulgent flavors, making it an ideal side dish for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering. This salad is quick to prepare, full of textures, and packed with flavor—perfect for both veggie lovers and those who aren’t usually fans of greens.

Why Brussels Kale Salad is a Winner

This Brussels kale salad stands out for its perfect balance of fresh greens, crispy bacon, and sharp cheese. What makes it so appealing is that it brings together a medley of flavors and textures. The kale and Brussels sprouts provide a hearty base, while the apples add a crisp, refreshing bite. Topped with sharp cheddar, bacon, and toasted pecans, the salad offers a flavor profile that’s as exciting as it is satisfying.

The versatility of this salad makes it a great option for any meal. Whether served as a healthy lunch, a festive side dish, or a light dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prep ahead, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients for Brussels Kale Salad

To make this delicious Brussels kale salad, gather these simple ingredients:

• Brussels Sprouts: These small, nutrient-dense vegetables form the heart of the salad. Their crisp texture adds crunch and a slightly nutty flavor when shaved.
• Kale: Kale is the perfect complement to Brussels sprouts. It’s hearty, nutrient-packed, and has a slightly earthy flavor. Use any variety of kale, though Tuscan kale is particularly popular.
• Apples: Use your favorite apple variety for sweetness and tartness. Granny Smith apples are particularly good for their tart flavor, but Honey Crisp apples are also a great choice.
• Cheddar Cheese: Extra sharp cheddar adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a savory, umami element to the salad, making it extra indulgent.
• Pecans: Toasted pecans provide a nutty crunch and a slight sweetness that balances the other flavors.
• Dried Cranberries: These add a touch of sweetness and a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the crunch of the pecans and Brussels sprouts.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make this Brussels kale salad your own, consider these swaps:

• Bacon: If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using crispy chickpeas or roasted pumpkin seeds for crunch and umami.
• Cheddar Cheese: Swap the sharp cheddar for blue cheese or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Pecans: Walnuts or almonds also work well as substitutes for pecans.
• Apples: If apples are not in season, pears make an excellent alternative, offering a similar texture and sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts and Kale: Start by cleaning the Brussels sprouts. Trim off any damaged leaves and slice or shave them as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer works best for this. Next, remove the stems from the kale, roll the leaves, and slice them into thin ribbons. Add both the Brussels sprouts and kale to a large bowl.
2. Massage the Greens: Drizzle the greens with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Use your hands to massage the kale and Brussels sprouts for about 1-2 minutes. This step softens the greens and reduces their volume, making them easier to eat.
3. Toast the Pecans: On a baking sheet, toast the pecans at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, or until they become fragrant and slightly golden.
4. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly add the olive oil and bacon fat, whisking until the vinaigrette emulsifies.
5. Assemble the Salad: Add the diced apples, toasted pecans, cranberries, cheddar, and bacon to the massaged greens. Pour the vinaigrette over the top and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve: Serve immediately, or store in the fridge for up to a few hours before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• Use a Mandoline: For the best results, use a mandoline slicer to shave the Brussels sprouts as thinly as possible. This creates a delicate texture that pairs perfectly with the kale.
• Don’t Pre-Cut the Apples: To prevent browning, don’t cut the apples until right before serving. Their crispness and tartness add a refreshing contrast to the salad.
• Prep Ahead: To make this Brussels kale salad even easier, prepare the ingredients in advance. The dressing can be made up to 5 days ahead, and the Brussels sprouts and kale can be prepped and refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Brussels kale salad is versatile enough to be paired with many different dishes. It’s a great side dish for a Thanksgiving feast or a delicious complement to roasted meats like chicken or pork. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu to make it a main course.

For those looking for variations, try adding roasted butternut squash for a seasonal touch or substituting the cheddar with a creamy goat cheese for a milder flavor.

Conclusion

Brussels kale salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fall flavors and textures. With the perfect balance of hearty greens, crunchy nuts, tangy cheese, and savory bacon, this salad offers something for everyone. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or making it a weekly staple, this vibrant dish never fails to impress. The fresh ingredients are packed with nutrients, while the combination of flavors will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s easy to customize with alternatives that fit your dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry.

For a truly memorable meal, serve this Brussels kale salad with your favorite proteins or as a stand-alone dish. No matter the occasion, it’s bound to be a hit!

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More Relevant Recipes

• Roasted Fall Vegetables with Cranberries, Maple & Walnuts: A perfect complement to the Brussels kale salad, this recipe features hearty roasted vegetables tossed with sweet cranberries and maple syrup, enhanced by crunchy walnuts. It’s a fantastic seasonal side dish bursting with autumn flavors.
• Pumpkin Whipped Feta Dip – Fall Appetizer: For a fall-inspired appetizer, this creamy pumpkin and feta dip pairs wonderfully with Brussels kale salad. The savory, tangy feta combined with the richness of pumpkin creates a perfect balance of flavors for any gathering.
• Apple & Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash: This recipe brings together the sweetness of apples, the savory richness of sausage, and the earthiness of butternut squash. It makes a great main dish alongside the Brussels kale salad, offering a cozy, fall-inspired meal that’s full of flavor and nutrition.

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