Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad: A Crisp, Crunchy, Flavorful Delight
Thinly sliced sprouts offer crunch highlighted by tangy, sweet, and savory accents.
If you’re seeking a vibrant, crunchy, and utterly delicious salad that feels at home on both festive dinner tables and casual weekday lunches, look no further than this shaved Brussels sprout salad. This dish transforms humble sprouts into a show-stopping side, packed with texture, flavor, and health benefits. Learn how to prepare this salad, discover tips for success, and find answers to your most frequently asked questions right below.
Why Brussels Sprouts Shine in Salads
Brussels sprouts are having a renaissance in kitchens everywhere. Once relegated to the side as a steamed veggie, they’ve stepped into the spotlight thanks to their bold flavor, versatility, and crunchy texture when shaved thin. Shaving or thinly slicing Brussels sprouts:
- Transforms their bitterness into a mild, nutty flavor
- Adds impressive crunch and body to salads
- Provides a nutritious base rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
When paired with punchy dressings and flavorful mix-ins, Brussels sprouts create an unforgettable salad.
Ingredients to Gather
Serves: 8 to 10
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts | 2 pounds | Fresh, crunchy base |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup | Fat for dressing and roasting |
| Balsamic glaze | 2 tbsp | Tangy sweetness |
| Crushed red pepper | 1/2 tsp | Heat and depth |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, grated | Savory flavor |
| Kosher salt and pepper | to taste | Seasoning |
| Fresno chiles | 1–2, thinly sliced | Extra kick |
| Shredded Parmesan | 1 cup | Nutty richness |
Optional additions may include toasted nuts, dried cranberries for sweetness, or crisp bacon bits for savory punch.
How to Shave Brussels Sprouts for Salad
- Rinse and trim: Remove any dry leaves and tough stems.
- Slice thinly: Use a sharp chef’s knife, mandoline, or food processor fitted with a slicing blade.
- Fluff up the slices: Gently separate the layers to maximize texture and volume.
Shaving is crucial; whole or thick-cut sprouts remain too firm and bitter in a raw or lightly dressed salad.
Step-by-Step: Making the Salad
This versatile salad can be served raw for maximum crunch or lightly roasted for caramelized notes. Here’s how to prepare a stellar shaved Brussels sprout salad in just a few easy steps:
- Whisk the dressing:
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic glaze, crushed red pepper, grated garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
- Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon for extra zing.
- Toss the sprouts:
- Place your shaved sprouts in the bowl with the dressing and mix until well coated.
- If including Fresno chiles, add them now for that spicy edge.
- Roast or leave raw:
- For a raw salad, let the mixture soak while you prepare toppings. For roasted, spread the dressed sprouts on parchment-lined sheet pans, avoiding overcrowding for maximum browning.
- Roast in a 400°F oven for 25–30 minutes, tossing occasionally, until golden and crispy at the edges.
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer sprouts to a serving platter.
- Toss with shredded Parmesan, toasted nuts, or dried cranberries right before serving.
- Drizzle extra balsamic glaze if desired.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t crowd the pan: When roasting, spread sprouts in a single layer for the best caramelization and crispy edges.
- Balance flavors: Brussels sprouts have a bold, slightly bitter taste. Use sweet (balsamic glaze, dried fruit), salty (Parmesan), and spicy (Fresno chiles) elements to round out the flavor.
- Make ahead: Shaved sprouts hold up well even after dressing. Prep up to a day in advance and finish with mix-ins just before serving for freshness.
Topping Variations: Mix & Match for Every Occasion
- Cheese: Try crumbled blue, feta, or goat cheese for a tangy contrast.
- Nuts: Add toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts for crunch and nutty flavor.
- Dried fruit: Cranberries, cherries, or apricots add a sweet-tart accent.
- Protein: Add crisp bacon bits or torn rotisserie chicken for a heartier salad.
What others are reading
This salad is endlessly customizable—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a refreshing lunch.
Why This Salad Belongs on Your Table
- Seasonal: Brussels sprouts are at their peak in fall and winter, making this salad an ideal holiday side.
- Nutritious: It’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats without excess calories.
- Versatile: Serve alongside roasted meats, hearty casseroles, or as a vegetarian main.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep in advance and enjoy leftovers that stay crisp.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | High | Immune support |
| Fiber | High | Digestive health |
| Antioxidants | Rich | Anti-inflammatory |
| Healthy fats | From olive oil, nuts, cheese | Heart health |
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted poultry or pork
- Rich casseroles and gratins
- Holiday feasts (Thanksgiving or Christmas)
- As a stand-alone lunch with added protein
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerate promptly: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days.
- Refresh texture: Toss with extra cheese or nuts before serving to restore crunch.
- Use leftovers: Add to wraps, grain bowls, or enjoy as a cold salad straight from the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts for this salad?
A: Yes, pre-shredded or shaved sprouts from the store are a time-saving option. Fresh shaving with a knife or mandoline yields the best texture, but packaged can work well in a pinch.
Q: Is raw Brussels sprout salad bitter?
A: Raw, thinly shaved Brussels sprouts are milder than whole or thick-cut pieces. The acidity and sweetness in the dressing offset any natural bitterness for a balanced flavor.
Q: Can this salad be made vegan?
A: Absolutely! Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese. Ensure the dressing and other toppings are vegan-friendly.
Q: How do I reduce bitterness in Brussels sprouts?
A: Pairing with sweet or tangy dressings, dried fruit, nuts, and cheeses helps mellow bitterness. Roasting sprouts caramelizes their natural sugars, deepening the flavor.
Q: What kitchen tools are best for shaving Brussels sprouts?
A: A sharp chef’s knife yields thin slices; a mandoline ensures consistent shavings. Food processors with a slicing disc can handle large batches quickly and safely.
Chef’s Notes & Variations
Feel free to get creative! Add citrus zest to the dressing for brightness, swap in honey or maple syrup for the glaze, or sprinkle pomegranate seeds for extra color. Brussels sprout salads are highly adaptive—let your imagination guide the mix-ins and flavors.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Fresh and vibrant with every bite
- Unmatched crunch thanks to thin shaving
- Layers of flavor from tangy, nutty, sweet, and spicy toppings
- Versatility for any gathering or meal
Give this recipe a try and let it become a new staple in your kitchen repertoire—it’s a beautiful, healthy side dish worthy of a place at any feast.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-DO0nFgCxA
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a94211/brussels-sprout-and-kale-salad-with-strawberry-basil-vinaigrette/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a10447/brussels-sprouts-with-balsamic-and-cranberries/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g37328783/brussels-sprouts-recipes/
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