Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad: Easy Recipe for Any Meal

If you’re looking for a refreshing, healthy, and easy-to-make side dish, this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is the perfect choice. Crisp Brussels sprouts paired with the sweetness of apples and a tangy maple dressing create a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday dinner or simply craving a light, nutritious dish, this salad will impress your guests and elevate any meal. It’s a unique way to enjoy Brussels sprouts without roasting them, making it a fresh alternative to heavier side dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad stands out because it’s not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With its light, crisp texture, it’s an ideal addition to any meal, especially during the fall and winter months when Brussels sprouts are in season. The sweetness from apples and dried cranberries balances out the slightly bitter flavor of raw Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful contrast. Plus, the simple maple mustard dressing brings it all together in a way that’s both vibrant and satisfying. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious and fresh salad:

For the Dressing:

• Olive oil: Provides a rich, smooth base for the dressing.
• Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, zesty tang.
• Apple cider vinegar: Complements the fall flavors with a touch of acidity.
• Maple syrup: Brings sweetness and depth to balance the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts.
• Dijon mustard: Acts as an emulsifier and enhances the flavor profile.
• Garlic: Adds a savory kick to the dressing.

For the Salad:

• Brussels sprouts: The star of the dish. Make sure to wash them well before use.
• Honeycrisp apple: Sweet and juicy, these apples add a nice crunch to the salad.
• Dried cranberries: A pop of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the Brussels sprouts.
• Sunflower seeds: For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Shaved Parmesan adds a salty, savory note that elevates the dish.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make swaps based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are some ideas:

• Apples: While Honeycrisp apples work best, you can swap them for Gala or Fuji apples if needed.
• Nuts and Seeds: Feel free to replace sunflower seeds with pumpkin seeds, toasted almonds, or walnuts.
• Cheese: If you prefer a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan or try a vegan cheese alternative like nutritional yeast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Shave the Brussels Sprouts: Using a sharp knife, mandolin, or food processor, thinly slice the Brussels sprouts. Ensure the slices are as thin as possible to enhance the texture.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, chopped Honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once tossed, serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate for up to a few hours before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• Make Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the dressing and shave the Brussels sprouts in advance. Store the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and the Brussels sprouts for up to 2 days.
• Don’t Overdo the Garlic: While garlic adds great flavor, raw garlic can be intense. Adjust the amount to suit your taste, especially if you’re sensitive to its sharpness.
• Customize Your Salad: This salad is highly adaptable. Add other fruits like pears, or mix in different nuts or seeds depending on what you have on hand.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is an excellent side dish for a variety of meals, particularly during the holiday season. Pair it with roasted turkey, baked ham, or a light fish like salmon for a well-rounded, satisfying meal. The salad can also be served as a standalone light lunch or dinner option.

For a different flavor twist, try adding crumbled goat cheese, blue cheese, or feta. You can also make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the dressing for a kick. If you’re making it for a crowd, feel free to double the recipe and serve it at your next holiday gathering!

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It will still maintain its crispness, especially if the dressing is kept separate until serving.

Seasonal and Health Benefits

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is a perfect dish for the fall and winter seasons when Brussels sprouts are in abundance. Not only is it refreshing and vibrant, but it also offers a variety of health benefits. Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, making this salad a nutritious option. The apples provide additional fiber and vitamin C, while the maple syrup adds natural sweetness without the processed sugars.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just want a healthy side dish, this salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The raw Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy base, complemented by the sweetness of apples and cranberries, while the maple mustard dressing ties it all together. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, and its versatility allows you to customize it to your liking. Make this fresh and vibrant salad for your next gathering, and watch it become a favorite at your table.

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad: This refreshing salad combines crisp apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, making it a perfect companion to the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad. The addition of nuts adds texture, while the sweetness of the apples complements the tangy dressing.
• Autumn Chopped Salad: A hearty salad packed with fall flavors, including roasted vegetables, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. Its rich, earthy flavors align perfectly with the fresh and vibrant nature of the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad.
• Brussels Kale Salad: This salad combines Brussels sprouts and kale with a light dressing, providing a similar refreshing crunch as the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad. The kale adds a hearty green element, making it a more filling option while maintaining the same crispness and flavor balance.

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