Easy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe to Try

If you’re craving something fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is exactly what you need. Perfect for a quick lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a crowd-pleasing recipe for your next gathering, it offers a delightful balance of tangy, nutty, and crisp textures. This easy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a refreshing dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Time-Saving Delight: Shaving the Brussels sprouts makes prep super quick and easy, cutting down on cooking time while enhancing texture.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re serving dinner guests or packing a lunch, this salad fits effortlessly into any meal plan.
• Fresh and Nutritious: It’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants while still tasting indulgent and satisfying.
• Customizable Crunch: You can tweak the toppings and dressing to match your taste or dietary needs without losing its signature zest.
• Vibrant Presentation: The thin ribbons of Brussels sprouts create an eye-catching dish that looks just as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This shaved Brussels sprout salad uses simple, fresh ingredients that each bring their own magic to the bowl. From the crisp sprouts to the zingy dressing and crunchy add-ins, every element is essential for that perfect medley of textures and flavors.

• Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Core to the salad, thinly shaved for a tender but crunchy base.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds a rich, fruity note while helping the flavors meld together.
• Lemon Juice: Provides bright acidity to balance the bitterness of the sprouts.
• Salt and Pepper: Enhances all flavors and seasons the salad perfectly.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, creamy contrast that complements the greens perfectly.
• Toasted Nuts (like almonds or walnuts): Bring crunch and a toasty flavor to round out the dish.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the dressing.

Variations for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

One of the best things about this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to adjust the flavors, add protein, or tweak the dressing, the possibilities are endless.

• Sweet Touch: Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness.
• Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Vegan Swap: Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to add some heat.
• Herbal Freshness: Toss in fresh mint, basil, or parsley to brighten up the flavors even more.

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How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the ends of your Brussels sprouts and remove any outer leaves that look wilted or damaged. Then, using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, shave them into thin ribbons, which makes them easier to chew and blends beautifully with the dressing.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. The dressing should be bright and balanced, enhancing the sprouts’ natural flavors.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the shaved sprouts with the dressing until well coated. Add in toasted nuts and freshly grated Parmesan, then mix gently to ensure each bite has a perfect blend of crunch and creaminess.

Step 4: Adjust and Serve

Taste the salad and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Letting the salad sit for 10 minutes helps the flavors meld, but it’s also wonderful served immediately for an extra crisp texture.

Pro Tips for Making Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select small, firm Brussels sprouts for the best texture and flavor.
• Use a Mandoline: For consistent thin ribbons, a mandoline slicer is your best tool.
• Toast Nuts Properly: Toast nuts lightly in a dry pan to unlock their full flavor and crunch.
• Don’t Overdress: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed to avoid sogginess.
• Let it Rest: Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the sprouts without losing crunch.

How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives make a lovely finishing touch, adding color and crispness. A sprinkle of toasted seeds or extra Parmesan can elevate the presentation and flavor balance even more.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted fish, or even hearty grains like quinoa or farro, making it versatile enough for a light lunch or an elegant dinner accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in a rustic wooden bowl or layer it in a glass parfait with goat cheese and roasted nuts for a stunning visual impact at parties or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover shaved Brussels sprout salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sprouts will soften slightly but remain tasty.

Freezing

Because of the delicate texture, it’s best not to freeze this salad. Ingredients like fresh sprouts and Parmesan don’t hold up well to freezing and thawing.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If you want to warm it slightly, do so gently and briefly, but avoid overheating to maintain its crispness.

FAQs

Can I use shredded Brussels sprouts instead of shaved?

Yes, shredded Brussels sprouts will work but may be slightly less tender; shaving creates thinner ribbons, which feel lighter and more delicate in the salad.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or omit it entirely if you prefer a dairy-free or vegan option.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

Stored properly in the fridge, the salad will stay fresh for about 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first day for maximum crunch.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, just ensure any add-ins like nuts are not cross-contaminated.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate if you want to maintain the maximum crunch of the sprouts until you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

This easy, fresh, and flavorful Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to time and again. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and a delicious way to enjoy Brussels sprouts in a fresh, bright way. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen!

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