Shaved Brussels sprouts salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its crisp texture and vibrant flavors make it a favorite among salad lovers. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with health benefits, making it an excellent choice for a quick and wholesome meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and fiber, while almonds add healthy fats and protein.
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt this salad to suit your taste or dietary needs with simple ingredient swaps.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The zesty lemon dressing perfectly complements the nutty Brussels sprouts, Parmesan, and almonds.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
- Gluten-Free and Vegetarian: Suitable for a variety of dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
Ingredients & Preparation Notes
- Brussels sprouts: Choose fresh, firm sprouts for the best texture. Shave them thinly for a delicate bite.
- Parmesan cheese: Shaved Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. You can use a vegetable peeler to create thin shavings.
- Almonds: Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor. Simply heat them in a dry skillet until golden.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best taste. Use a citrus juicer for maximum yield.
- Extra virgin olive oil: High-quality olive oil adds richness to the dressing. Choose a cold-pressed variety for the best flavor.
- Dijon mustard: This adds a tangy kick to the dressing. Substitute with whole grain mustard if preferred.
- Garlic: Mince the garlic finely to ensure it blends well into the dressing.
- Salt and black pepper: Adjust to taste, but start with the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor.
Professional Tips & Techniques
- When preparing this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad, consider the following professional tips to elevate your dish:
- Shaving Technique: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to shave the Brussels sprouts. This ensures a uniform texture and helps the dressing coat evenly. Be cautious when using a mandoline, as it can be sharp.
- Dressing Absorption: Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes after adding the dressing. This resting period helps the Brussels sprouts absorb the flavors, resulting in a more cohesive taste.
- Toasting Nuts: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown.
- Dressing Balance: Whisk the dressing ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, keeping in mind that the flavors will mellow as they sit with the sprouts.
- Visual Appeal: Just before serving, add the Parmesan and almonds. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the salad’s visual appeal with contrasting colors and textures.
Recipe Variations
- Explore these variations to customize your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad:
- Add Protein: Toss in some cooked bacon bits or shredded chicken for a heartier salad.
- Fruit Addition: Incorporate dried cranberries or sliced apples for a sweet and tart contrast.
- Different Nuts: Swap almonds for walnuts or pecans to change the flavor profile.
- Cheese Varieties: Try using feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a different taste.
- Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Seasonal Twist: In the fall, add roasted butternut squash cubes for a seasonal touch.
Serving Suggestions
- This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal. It complements roasted chicken or salmon beautifully.
- Light Lunch: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying and healthy lunch option.
- Potluck Favorite: Bring it to a potluck or barbecue; it’s a crowd-pleaser that holds up well at room temperature.
- Presentation Tips: Arrange the salad on a large platter and garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and a sprinkle of almonds for an elegant look.
- Pairing Suggestions: Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea to enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- To ensure the best quality and safety, follow these storage and make-ahead guidelines:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some crunch over time.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Add the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: Brussels sprouts can be frozen, but the texture may change. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh.
- Reheating: If you prefer a warm salad, lightly sauté the Brussels sprouts in a bit of olive oil before adding the dressing and other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Add the dressing just before serving to keep the Brussels sprouts crisp.
Q: What can I substitute for almonds?
You can use other nuts like walnuts or pecans, or for a nut-free option, try sunflower seeds.
Q: Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian as it contains no meat products. Just ensure the Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture, you can use thawed frozen sprouts. They may be softer but still tasty.
Q: How do I know if my Brussels sprouts are fresh?
Look for firm, compact sprouts with bright green color and no yellowing or wilting. The leaves should be tightly packed.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Try adding shredded carrots, radishes, or even thinly sliced kale for added color and nutrition.
Q: What’s the best way to shave Brussels sprouts?
A mandoline is the most efficient tool, but a sharp knife works well too. Be sure to slice them thinly for the best texture.
Q: How can I make this salad more filling?
Add protein like cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or even chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
Conclusion
This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Its ease of preparation and health benefits make it a go-to recipe for busy cooks and health-conscious eaters alike. Give it a try and enjoy the fresh, nutritious goodness it brings to your table.
Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try on social media, and let us know how you enjoyed it!
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preparing the Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends and remove any outer leaves that are yellow or damaged. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to shave the Brussels sprouts thinly into a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Pour the dressing over the shaved Brussels sprouts and toss well to ensure all the sprouts are coated. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, add the shaved Parmesan cheese and toasted almonds to the salad. Toss lightly to combine, and serve immediately.