shaved brussels sprout salad

This shaved Brussels sprout salad is a vibrant, easy-to-make dish that combines freshness with depth of flavor. With only seven ingredients, it’s a simple yet impressive choice for any occasion.

Perfect for holiday gatherings or meal prep, this salad features a delightful balance of tangy lemon, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pine nuts. The addition of grated pecorino and chives elevates it further, making it both satisfying and delicious.

Ready in just minutes, this salad can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s the ideal side dish to complement any meal or enjoy on its own for a light, nutritious lunch.

Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Ingredients

The star of this dish is the crisp, tender Brussels sprouts, providing a fresh base with a subtle earthy flavor. The extra-virgin olive oil adds a rich, smooth texture, while the zesty lemon juice brightens every bite.

Toasted pine nuts bring a satisfying crunch and nutty depth, balancing the sweetness of dried cranberries. A sprinkle of pecorino cheese introduces a savory, sharp contrast, while fresh chives add a burst of color and delicate onion flavor.

A pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper ties everything together, enhancing the natural flavors for a refreshing, well-rounded salad.

Recipe Tips

1. Use a Mandoline for Even Slicing
   For a consistent texture, using a mandoline slicer to thinly shave the Brussels sprouts is ideal. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife will also work, but be sure to slice them as thinly as possible for the best texture.
2. Toast the Pine Nuts for Extra Flavor
   To bring out the rich, nutty flavor of the pine nuts, toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the flavor profile and adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
3. Let the Salad Rest Before Serving
   Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures the Brussels sprouts soften slightly, making each bite more tender and flavorful.

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What to Serve with Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

1. Grilled Chicken or Turkey
   This crisp and tangy salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or turkey. The rich, savory flavors of the meat balance the bright, fresh taste of the Brussels sprouts, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal. Serve alongside a light vinaigrette to complete the dish.
2. Quinoa or Couscous
   For a lighter, plant-based option, pair the salad with a side of quinoa or couscous. The fluffy grains provide a perfect contrast to the crunchy Brussels sprouts, while also making for a filling and nutritious meal that’s great for lunch or dinner.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the tangy lemon and cranberries in the salad. The soft, caramelized edges of the potatoes pair perfectly with the crunchy salad, making for a colorful and hearty side dish.

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FAQ

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   Yes, this salad can be made a few hours ahead of time. However, for best results, wait until right before serving to add the dressing and pecorino cheese, as this will ensure the salad remains fresh and the Brussels sprouts don’t wilt too much.
2. Can I substitute the pecorino cheese?
   If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute the pecorino with Parmesan, feta, or goat cheese. Each will provide a unique flavor, with Parmesan adding a nutty finish, and feta or goat cheese bringing creaminess and tang.
3. What if I don’t have pine nuts?
   If pine nuts aren’t available, you can easily substitute them with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Toast them lightly for added flavor and crunch, just like you would with pine nuts.
4. Can I make this salad without the lemon juice?
   While the lemon juice adds a vital tang, you can substitute it with vinegar (such as apple cider or white wine vinegar) for a similar acidity. Keep in mind the flavor will differ slightly, but the salad will still be delicious.

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Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

This simple yet flavorful shaved Brussels sprout salad is composed of only seven key ingredients, offering a fresh and vibrant dish perfect for preparing in advance. Ideal for holiday meals or as a wholesome option for lunch, it balances savory and tangy notes with a delightful crunch.

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Course Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

  

• Shaved Brussels sprouts
• Toasted pine nuts
• Dried cranberries
• Fresh lemon juice
• Extra-virgin olive oil plus extra for drizzling
• Chopped chives
• Grated pecorino cheese optional
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Begin by thinly slicing the Brussels sprouts, ideally using a mandoline for precision. Transfer the sprouts into a medium-sized bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, toasted pine nuts, dried cranberries, pecorino cheese (if using), and chopped chives. Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Allow the salad to rest at room temperature for approximately 15 minutes, which will help the flavors meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, finishing with a drizzle of additional olive oil if desired.

Keyword Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad