As the winter months roll in, the appeal of a vibrant, fresh salad often seems to fade. However, this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad stands out as a nourishing and delightful dish that brightens any table. Imagine light, crunchy Brussels sprouts, finely shaved to enhance their delicate flavor, tossed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This salad not only elevates your typical salad game but is also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for a light lunch or a festive side dish at gatherings.

The freshness of the ingredients combined with the tangy dressing creates an inviting dish that is not only healthful but incredibly satisfying. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this salad is simple enough to make but elegant enough for any occasion. It’s a dish that showcases the beauty of seasonal produce and encourages mindful eating during the colder months, when hearty foods often dominate our plates.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy prep, perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can have this salad ready in under 30 minutes!
• Utilizes seasonal Brussels sprouts, maximizing flavor and nutrition, as they are at their peak during the colder months. This means more vitamins and a better taste, straight from the farm to your table.
• A vibrant addition to any holiday table or gathering, appealing to vegetarians and omnivores alike, ensuring everyone can enjoy it. The bright colors and delicious flavors make it a centerpiece dish that sparks conversations.
• Customizable with various toppings to suit your taste, so you can easily adapt it to what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Feel free to get creative add ingredients that make you smile!
• Packed with vitamins and low in calories, making it a healthy salad option that supports your wellness goals while satisfying your taste buds. It’s guilt-free indulgence without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad. Quality ingredients will yield the best flavor and texture. Whenever possible, choose organic Brussels sprouts and fresh produce to enhance the overall taste of the salad. Freshness is key here opt for items that are in season for the most vibrant flavors.

• For the Salad:
  • 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shaved, preferably organic for the best flavor. Look for sprouts that are firm and tightly packed for optimal crunch.
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated, adding a touch of sweetness and a pop of color. Carrots not only brighten the dish but also provide essential nutrients and fiber.
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion, which introduces a sharp contrast to the other ingredients. The onion enhances the overall complexity of flavors; adjust according to your personal taste.
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped, providing a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor, bringing out their natural oils.
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries, for a hint of tartness and chewiness that balances the salad. These little gems add a delightful burst of sweetness that complements the savory elements.
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional), for those who enjoy a creamy, tangy element in their salads. Feta adds a unique flavor profile, elevating the salad into something truly special.
• For the Dressing:
  
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, a high-quality oil will enhance the flavor significantly. Ensure the oil is fresh, as rancid oil can spoil the taste.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, freshly squeezed for the best brightness and acidity. Always use fresh lemon juice for a more vibrant flavor compared to bottled.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, which adds depth and a smooth texture to the dressing. This ingredient also acts as an emulsifier to help combine the oil and vinegar.
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, for a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity. This subtle sweetness is key to achieving a well-rounded dressing.
  • Salt and pepper to taste, essential for enhancing the overall flavors of the dish. Don’t skip this step seasoning can make or break your salad!

  

Steps / Instructions

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, shave the Brussels sprouts into thin slices. Aim for pieces that are about 1/8-inch thick for optimal texture. The thinner the sprouts, the more tender they will become once dressed. If you are using a mandoline, be careful with your fingers and use the safety guard!

Grate the Carrot: Peel and grate the carrot using a box grater or food processor. This adds vibrant color and sweetness to your salad, making it visually appealing and delicious. The bright orange will contrast beautifully with the green sprouts!

Slice the Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and separate the rings. The onion adds a sharp flavor but should be balanced, so feel free to adjust the quantity according to your taste. If the raw onion flavor is too strong, consider soaking the slices in cold water for a few minutes to mellow them out. This step can make the onion taste sweeter and less pungent.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary; a well-balanced dressing complements the salad’s flavors beautifully. The dressing can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using!

Toss the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, grated carrot, sliced red onion, walnuts, and dried cranberries. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to ensure everything is evenly coated. Take a moment to enjoy the colorful mix before serving it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate!

Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld and slightly softens the Brussels sprouts, making them more palatable. If you prefer a crunchier texture, serve immediately after tossing. The salad’s flavor will deepen as it sits, so don’t rush this step!

Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese, if using, for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy this salad as a light lunch option or as a side dish with your favorite main course. A glass of chilled white wine pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the overall dining experience!

Tips & Tricks

• Choosing Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts that are tightly packed. Avoid any that are yellowing or wilting. Fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal for achieving the best texture and flavor in your salad. When selecting, consider taking a whiff fresh sprouts should smell earthy, not cabbage-like.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become slightly soggy as it sits, so consider keeping the dressing separate if preparing in advance. This keeps the salad crisp and enjoyable, allowing for a delicious second serving!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the shaved Brussels sprouts and dressing in advance. Combine them just before serving to keep the salad crisp. You can also chop the nuts and grate the cheese ahead of time for even quicker assembly, making meal prep a breeze.
• Fixing Overly Bitter Taste: If your Brussels sprouts taste bitter, try blanching them in boiling salted water for 1-2 minutes before shaving. This can help mellow their flavor, making the salad more enjoyable for everyone. After blanching, immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process.
• Texture Variations: For added crunch, consider incorporating other nuts or seeds such as sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds. You can also try adding roasted chickpeas for a protein boost. These options not only enhance the flavor but also add interesting textures, making your salad a multi-dimensional dish.

Conclusion

Embrace the beauty of winter with this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad. The combination of fresh ingredients, bright flavors, and nutritional benefits makes it an ideal choice for any meal. Whether you’re prepping for a festive gathering or simply looking for healthy salad ideas, this salad is sure to impress. Try it out and let the crunch and flavor speak for themselves! Check out our related guide for more tips on incorporating seasonal vegetables into your meals.

Have you tried making this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experience in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, consider saving it or sharing it on social media. You might also love our Balsamic Chicken Salad with Grilled Corn and Feta or our Mango Avocado Salad with Honey Lime Dressing. Happy cooking and enjoy exploring the vibrant world of salads!

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Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Recipe by diralvid@gmail.com

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Salad Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4 +

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Prep Time

15 min

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Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Calories

—

A nourishing and delightful dish that brightens any table. This salad is packed with nutrients and features light, crunchy Brussels sprouts, finely shaved and tossed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shaved
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1.

Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shave the Brussels sprouts into thin slices.

2.

Peel and grate the carrot using a box grater or food processor.

3.

Thinly slice the red onion and separate the rings.

4.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.

5.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, grated carrot, sliced red onion, walnuts, and dried cranberries. Pour the dressing over and toss.

6.

Allow the salad to marinate for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

7.

Before serving, sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese if using.

Nutrition Facts