Ultimate Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe

Brussels sprout salad is the ultimate game-changer when it comes to healthy, vibrant, and flavorful dishes. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a potluck, or just looking to elevate your everyday meal routine, this Brussels sprout salad recipe is a go-to choice that combines crunch, nutrition, and freshness in every bite.

This dish takes the underrated Brussels sprout and transforms it into a star ingredient. Instead of roasting or sautéing, we shred the sprouts raw and pair them with a delicious combination of textures and flavors think creamy cheese, crunchy nuts, juicy fruits, and a tangy, bright dressing that brings everything together.

Perfect for meal prep, lunch, dinner sides, or a light main course, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing. It’s naturally gluten-free, can be easily made vegan, and stores well for a couple of days making it as practical as it is delicious.

Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and learn exactly how to prepare it from start to finish.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before starting, gather the following tools and equipment:

• Sharp chef’s knife or mandoline slicer
• Large mixing bowl
• Small whisking bowl or jar with lid (for dressing)
• Cutting board
• Salad spinner (optional, for washing sprouts)
• Cheese grater (if using fresh block cheese)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or salad servers for mixing

What Do You Need to Prepare Brussels Sprout Salad?

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need for this delicious and crunchy Brussels sprout salad:

Main Salad Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and thinly sliced or shredded
• 1 medium apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balance)
• 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped and toasted
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries or cherries
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (optional) for extra crunch

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Easy Brussels Sprout Salad Step-by-Step ?

Let’s get right into the method for making this refreshing and healthy salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Wash and trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Alternatively, you can pulse them in a food processor using the slicing blade. Transfer the shredded sprouts into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts or pecans for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Stir occasionally and be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or a jar with a tight lid, combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and maple syrup. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk or shake until emulsified and smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Salad Ingredients

Add the sliced apples, red onions, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and cheese to the bowl with Brussels sprouts. Pour the dressing over and toss everything gently but thoroughly until evenly coated.

Step 5: Let It Marinate and Serve

Allow the salad to sit for at least 10–15 minutes before serving. This gives the Brussels sprouts time to soften slightly and absorb the flavors of the dressing. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Variations of Brussels Sprout Salad

The beauty of a Brussels sprout salad recipe lies in its flexibility. Here are a few exciting variations to consider:

• Vegan Version: Skip the cheese or replace it with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a plant-based option.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or roasted chickpeas to make it a complete meal.
• Different Nuts: Try almonds, hazelnuts, or cashews instead of walnuts or pecans for new textures.
• Sweet Additions: Swap cranberries with pomegranate seeds, raisins, or diced dried apricots.
• Cheese Options: Blue cheese or goat cheese can be substituted for a sharper or creamier flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices for some heat.
• Asian-Inspired: Replace dressing with sesame oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger, and add edamame and shredded carrots.

Feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits, fresh herbs like parsley or mint, and crunchy toppings like sunflower seeds or croutons. This dish easily adapts to whatever is available in your pantry.

Cooking Note

Although this dish involves no cooking in the traditional sense, a few preparation notes will ensure the best results. Firstly, the key to a delicious Brussels sprout salad is shredding the sprouts very finely. This helps break down their tough texture and allows the dressing to soak in.

To avoid bitterness, ensure your sprouts are fresh and bright green. If they seem dry or yellowish, discard the outer leaves. Toasting the nuts is highly recommended—it enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

If you’re prepping in advance, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving. The apples can be sliced ahead but toss them in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

Letting the salad rest after mixing helps meld the flavors and tenderize the sprouts slightly, improving both taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Brussels sprout salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various main courses. Serve it alongside roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or beef as a fresh, crunchy contrast. It’s also a fantastic side for holiday meals, particularly Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Looking for a light lunch? Add a protein source such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or boiled eggs and enjoy it as a stand-alone dish. It also pairs wonderfully with hearty soups like tomato basil, squash, or chicken noodle.

For presentation, garnish with a few whole nuts, extra cheese, or a drizzle of dressing on top before serving. It can also be spooned into lettuce cups for fun individual servings at parties or buffets.

Helpful Tips

1. Use a Food Processor: To shred sprouts faster and uniformly, use the slicing blade on a food processor.
2. Add Dressing Just Before Serving: Especially if storing for later, keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain the crisp texture.
3. Massage the Sprouts: Gently massaging them after slicing can help tenderize the leaves and make them less bitter.
4. Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill for 15–30 minutes enhances the overall flavor and texture.
5. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, crisp Brussels sprouts make a world of difference. Avoid pre-packaged shredded ones when possible.
6. Toast Your Nuts: Always toast nuts for better depth of flavor and more crunch.
7. Balance Flavors: Make sure your salad has a balance of sweet (fruit), tangy (vinegar), salty (cheese), and crunchy (nuts) components.
8. Double the Batch: This salad keeps well in the fridge, so feel free to make a large batch and enjoy for multiple meals.

Tips for the Best Brussels Sprout Salad

To ensure your Brussels sprout salad stands out every time, follow these key tips:

• Shred Thinly: The finer the sprouts, the better the texture and taste.
• Use Fresh and Crisp Sprouts: Always start with firm, green sprouts without wilting or discoloration.
• Dress It Right: Use a bright, acidic dressing to balance the earthiness of the sprouts and sweetness of added fruits.
• Let It Rest: Don’t skip the marinating time; it’s crucial for tenderizing and flavor blending.
• Balance Textures: Crunch from nuts, chewiness from dried fruits, and creaminess from cheese make every bite interesting.

These tips turn a simple salad into something truly memorable.

Timing Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes (for toasting nuts)
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 9g

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• Authentic Japanese Ginger Salad Dressing Recipe
• Ultimate Green Goddess Salad Recipe
• Creamy Avocado Egg Salad Recipe
• Chickpea Cucumber Feta Salad
• Cold Rice Noodle Salad Recipe

FAQs

Can I make Brussels sprout salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare all ingredients in advance but store the dressing separately. Combine everything before serving.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it lasts 2–3 days. The sprouts will soften slightly over time but still taste great.

Can I use bagged shredded Brussels sprouts?

You can, but fresh whole sprouts taste better and have a crispier texture.

Is this recipe vegan?

As written, no, but you can easily make it vegan by omitting or substituting the cheese.

Can I freeze Brussels sprout salad?

Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture and freshness of the vegetables.

Conclusion

This Brussels sprout salad recipe is more than just a side dish it’s a powerhouse of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Perfect for everyday meals or festive feasts, it’s a refreshing way to enjoy one of the healthiest vegetables around. With its crisp base, bold flavors, and endless customizations, it may just become a staple in your kitchen.

Try it once, and you’ll find yourself craving the crunch, tang, and vibrancy of this beautiful salad again and again. Whether you’re looking for something quick, nutritious, or simply delicious, this Brussels sprout salad delivers every single time. 🥗

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