Description
A fresh and vibrant Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with a perfectly balanced maple dressing that brings together crisp, slightly bitter sprouts and natural sweetness. This nutritious and versatile salad is ideal as a light lunch, colorful side, or crowd-pleasing appetizer, made with simple ingredients and easy steps to deliver a delicious, healthy experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shaved thin
- 1/4 cup toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or vegan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced shallots or red onion (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the stem ends of fresh Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shave the sprouts into thin ribbons to maximize crunch and make them easy to eat raw.
- Make the Maple Dressing: Whisk together pure maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to balance sweet and tangy flavors to your liking.
- Toast the Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast your choice of nuts until fragrant and slightly browned, taking care to avoid burning. This enhances their flavor and adds satisfying crunch.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with the maple dressing until evenly coated. Add the toasted nuts, thinly sliced shallots or red onions if using, and grated Parmesan or alternative cheese. Toss lightly once more to combine all ingredients well.
- Serve Fresh: Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor, or chill briefly to allow flavors to meld. The salad is delightful served either way.
Notes
- Use fresh Brussels sprouts for optimal crunch and reduced bitterness.
- Shave the sprouts thinly for a tender, enjoyable texture.
- Toast nuts carefully and watch closely to avoid a bitter burnt taste.
- Start with less maple syrup in dressing, then adjust sweetness after tasting.
- Let the salad rest for 10 minutes before serving to blend flavors beautifully.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Brussels sprout salad, maple dressing, healthy salad, crunchy salad, fall salad, vegetarian, gluten free