This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy Brussels sprout recipe. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meals. You’ll love how fresh and satisfying this dish is.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Brussels Sprouts: Fresh is best for shaving. You can use pre-shredded if you’re short on time.
- Apples: Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work wonderfully. Pears are a great substitute.
- Pecans: Add a lovely crunch. Walnuts or almonds can be used instead.
- Maple Syrup: Balances the vinaigrette. Honey is a good alternative.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides tang to the dressing. Lemon juice also works.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 1 large apple, cored and thinly sliced or diced
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Mandoline slicer or sharp knife, large mixing bowl, small whisk or fork.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Carefully wash and trim the ends of your Brussels sprouts. Use a mandoline slicer on a thin setting or a very sharp knife to thinly shave them. Place the shaved sprouts into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add Salad Components
Toss the thinly sliced or diced apple, chopped pecans, and optional dried cranberries into the bowl with the Brussels sprouts. If using, add the chopped fresh parsley now.
3. Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until well combined and smooth. Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to your preference.
4. Dress and Serve
Pour the prepared dressing over the Brussels sprout mixture. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately to enjoy this healthy Brussels sprout recipe at its best.
Variation Ideas:
- Add some crumbled goat cheese or feta for a creamy, tangy element.
- Include thinly sliced red onion for a bit of bite.
- Toast the pecans lightly before adding them for enhanced flavor.
- Incorporate other fruits like pomegranate seeds for extra color and tartness.
- For an extra protein boost, add some grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the Brussels sprouts can soften over time once dressed. If you plan to make it ahead, store the dressing separately and combine just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you eat Brussels sprouts raw? Yes, you can! Shaving them thin makes them much more palatable and enjoyable in salads.
- What are good healthy Brussels sprout recipes? Besides this salad, roasting, stir-frying, or steaming Brussels sprouts are all healthy options.
- Do I have to use a mandoline to shave the sprouts? No, you can use a very sharp knife to thinly slice them by hand, though a mandoline makes it quicker and more uniform.
- Can I prepare this salad ahead of time? You can prepare the individual components and the dressing separately a day in advance. Combine them just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- What kind of apples are best for this salad? Crisp, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith work best.
- Is this salad good for meal prep? It can be, but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat each portion to maintain crispness.
