Description
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Apple & Pomegranate
Ingredients
4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
1 apple (sliced thinly)
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1/3 cup walnuts (toasted)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine shaved Brussels sprouts, apple slices, pomegranate seeds, walnuts, and Parmesan cheese.
Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy this crunchy, fresh, and festive salad!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Shave the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends off each sprout. Using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor with a slicing attachment, carefully slice them into thin shreds. Place in a large salad bowl.
2. Toast the Walnuts: Place walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool, then chop roughly.
3. Prepare the Fruit: Thinly slice your apple (a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji works well). Remove the seeds from a fresh pomegranate or use pre-packaged seeds.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, vigorously whisk the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture is fully emulsified.
5. Combine and Toss: Add the apple slices, pomegranate seeds, toasted walnuts, and grated Parmesan to the bowl with the shaved sprouts. Drizzle the dressing over the top.
6. Final Toss: Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a holiday meal. It also complements grilled salmon or pork chops perfectly. For a vegetarian feast, pair it with a hearty lentil loaf or stuffed squash. To make it a complete light lunch, top it with grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken.
How-to Summary
Shave Brussels sprouts and combine with thin apple slices, pomegranate seeds, toasted walnuts, and Parmesan. Whisk together a simple dressing of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together just before serving for a crunchy, sweet, savory, and festive side dish ready in 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, keep components separate. Shave the sprouts, make the dressing, and prepare toppings. Combine and toss just 10-15 minutes before serving to prevent sogginess.
What can I use instead of pomegranate seeds? Dried cranberries or cherries make an excellent substitute, offering a similar sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture.
How do I prevent the apples from browning? Toss the apple slices in a teaspoon of lemon juice or a bit of the dressing immediately after cutting to slow oxidation.
Is there a nut-free alternative to walnuts? Absolutely. Use sunflower seeds or pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for a similar crunchy element without the nuts.
Can I use a different cheese? Yes. Pecorino Romano offers a sharper bite, while crumbled goat cheese or feta would provide a creamy, tangy twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid shredding the Brussels sprouts too far in advance, as they can wilt and become bitter. Do not skip toasting the walnuts; this step is crucial for deepening their flavor and adding crunch. Ensure your dressing is well-emulsified before adding; a quick re-whisk right before pouring helps. Finally, do not overdress the salad. Start with half the dressing, toss, and add more only if needed to prevent a soggy result.
Conclusion
This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a vibrant, textural masterpiece that transforms a simple vegetable into a celebratory dish. The perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both everyday meals and special occasions. Its simplicity and flexibility ensure it will become a trusted go-to in your culinary repertoire.