Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad – Easy Holiday Favorite

Looking for a refreshing, nutrient-packed, and show-stopping side dish? This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is everything you want in a modern salad — crisp textures, bursts of sweet and tart, and a creamy lemon Dijon vinaigrette to tie it all together. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday meal or adding color to your weekday menu, this salad strikes the perfect balance of vibrant flavor and satisfying crunch.

Why This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Deserves a Spot on Your Table

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad isn’t just another leafy green recipe — it’s a harmonious blend of texture, tang, and sweetness. Perfect for make-ahead meal prep, holiday spreads, or even light lunches, this dish is:

• Fresh and seasonal: Features winter favorites like pomegranate and cranberries
• Nutrient-rich: Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber and vitamin C
• Flavor-layered: Sweet candied pecans and tart lemon dressing complement the earthy sprouts
• Make-ahead friendly: Holds up well in the fridge without wilting

It’s an easy yet elegant option that transitions beautifully from casual meals to festive occasions.

What You’ll Need for This Salad Masterpiece

• Brussels Sprouts: The star of the dish, providing a crisp, hearty base with slightly bitter, earthy notes
• Pomegranate Arils: Add a juicy pop of sweetness and vibrant color
• Candied Pecans: Deliver crunch and caramelized sweetness for textural contrast
• Dried Cranberries: Provide chewy, tangy bursts that complement the vinaigrette
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, salty umami depth that ties all the flavors together

• Shallots: Thinly sliced for a mild, savory bite that balances the sweetness
• Olive Oil: Forms the base of the dressing, adding richness and body
• Dijon Mustard: Gives the vinaigrette a tangy kick and emulsifies the dressing
• Lemon Juice: Brightens up the salad with zesty acidity
• Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness to round out the vinaigrette
• Salt & Pepper: Enhances overall flavor and balances acidity

Substitutions & Swaps: Customizing Your Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

• Nut-free Option: Swap candied pecans with roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch
• Vegan Twist: Omit Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese
• Fruit Variations: Try apples, pears, or dried cherries instead of cranberries or pomegranate
• No Shallots? Red onion or green onion offers a similar aromatic kick
• No Food Processor? Use a mandoline or sharp knife to shave the Brussels sprouts finely

These swaps make this salad easily adaptable for various diets and pantry situations — without compromising on taste or texture.

How to Make the Best Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

1. Shave the Brussels Sprouts
   Trim the ends and remove any tough outer leaves. Using a food processor with the slicing attachment or a mandoline, thinly shave the Brussels sprouts into delicate ribbons. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Massage the Greens
   Lightly toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with your hands or tongs to help soften the texture. Let them sit while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
3. Mix the Dressing
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Shake or stir until fully emulsified.
4. Combine the Ingredients
   To the bowl of shaved sprouts, add pomegranate arils, dried cranberries, thinly sliced shallots, and candied pecans. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat.
5. Add the Finishing Touch
   Shave or grate fresh Parmesan over the salad just before serving. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   This salad is best served fresh but also holds up well if made a few hours ahead. Just store it in the fridge and give it a quick toss before serving.

Salad Success Secrets: Expert Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t skip the shave: Thin slices ensure the Brussels sprouts absorb flavor and soften slightly for the best texture
• Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled versions often taste flat—fresh gives a true citrusy brightness
• Balance the sweetness: Taste the dressing before adding to ensure it’s not too sweet or too tangy
• Massage gently: A little physical softening makes the sprouts less tough and more palatable
• Make ahead tip: Store dressing separately and toss just before serving for maximum freshness

By following these tips, your Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad will always be crunchy, flavorful, and well-balanced.

Flavor Pairings & Creative Twists

• Pair with: Roasted chicken, turkey, or pork tenderloin for a hearty main
• Add protein: Toss in chickpeas, quinoa, or grilled tofu for a more complete meal
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the dressing
• Serve warm: Lightly sauté shaved sprouts for a cozy variation with wilted texture
• Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store in an airtight container, and freshen with extra lemon before serving

This salad’s versatility means you can dress it up or down, depending on your needs and mood.

A Seasonal Staple That Works Year-Round

While this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad features winter produce like pomegranate and cranberries, it easily adapts to any season. In the fall, add roasted squash or apples. In summer, try fresh berries and a honey-lime vinaigrette. Brussels sprouts are available year-round, making this a reliable option for your salad rotation anytime.

It’s also an ideal holiday dish — festive, colorful, and easy to prep in advance without compromising quality or flavor.

Why Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Should Be Your Go-To Side

With its balance of crunch, tang, sweetness, and vibrant color, this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is more than just a seasonal favorite — it’s a year-round, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or prepping for weekday lunches, this salad delivers freshness, flavor, and nutrition in every bite. Simple to make, endlessly customizable, and beautiful on the plate, it’s a modern classic you’ll reach for time and again.

Make this salad your own by experimenting with mix-ins or dressings, and don’t be surprised if it becomes the star of your next meal. It’s the kind of recipe that earns repeat requests — and rightly so.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Fall Harvest Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette: A vibrant seasonal salad combining crisp apples, mixed greens, pecans, and cranberries, dressed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. Its flavor profile and texture make it a perfect companion or variation to Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad.
• Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad: This sweet and savory salad blends crunchy apples, tart cranberries, and toasted pecans — echoing the textures and flavors of Brussels sprout-based salads. Great for autumn menus or holiday gatherings.
• Roasted Chickpea Fall Salad: Featuring warm roasted chickpeas, seasonal greens, and a zesty vinaigrette, this hearty yet light dish offers a flavor-forward option for those who enjoy the fresh, textured style of shaved Brussels sprout salads.

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