Description
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Ingredients
1 lb Brussels sprouts, thinly shaved
4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup croutons
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, Dijon mustard, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Shave the Brussels Sprouts:
Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and thinly slice or shave them using a mandoline or sharp knife.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add the Toppings:
Add the cooked bacon, croutons, and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss until evenly coated.
Serve & Enjoy:
Transfer to a serving platter and top with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked pepper.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Make the Dressing First: Combine all dressing ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Let it sit while you prep the sprouts to allow the garlic flavor to mellow.
2. Shave the Sprouts Safely: After trimming the ends, use the guard on your mandoline. If using a knife, slice each sprout very thinly from top to bottom for perfect ribbons.
3. Massage the Greens: In your large salad bowl, toss the shaved sprouts with the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Gently massage them for a minute; this softens them slightly for a better texture.
4. Combine and Coat: Add the bacon, croutons, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Drizzle your prepared dressing over everything.
5. Toss Thoroughly: Use tongs or two large spoons to toss the salad vigorously, ensuring every strand is lightly coated with the creamy dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty salad is a versatile dish. Serve it as a standout side with grilled chicken or steak. To make it a complete meal, top it with a soft-boiled or poached egg, grilled shrimp, or sliced grilled chicken breast. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add toasted walnuts or chickpeas for protein and crunch.
How-to Summary
Create a creamy, garlic-Parmesan dressing and set aside. Thinly shave raw Brussels sprouts. Toss the sprouts with olive oil and lemon juice. Add crispy bacon, croutons, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Drizzle with the dressing, toss everything to coat evenly, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? You can prep components ahead. Store the dressing, shaved sprouts (dry), and bacon separately. Combine just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What can I use instead of a mandoline? A sharp chef’s knife works well. Halve the sprouts through the stem, then thinly slice. Alternatively, use the slicing blade on a food processor.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing? Yes, Greek yogurt makes a excellent, tangy substitute. For a more traditional emulsion, use anchovy paste and an egg yolk.
How do I prevent the sprouts from tasting bitter? Massaging them with the oil and acid (lemon juice) helps reduce bitterness. Using fresh, bright green sprouts also ensures a milder flavor.
Can I use pre-shaved Brussels sprouts? Absolutely. It’s a great time-saver. Just give them a quick rinse and dry them thoroughly before using.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying Shaved Sprouts: If washed after shaving, pat them completely dry. Excess water will dilute the dressing.
- Over-dressing the Salad: Start with half the dressing, toss, and add more as needed. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
- Skipping the Massage Step: This brief step tenderizes the raw sprouts, making them more palatable and better at holding the dressing.
- Using Stale Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts into the dressing and coats the salad far better than the pre-shredded kind.
Conclusion
This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is a modern, flavorful twist on a classic. It combines the satisfying crunch of raw sprouts with the rich, creamy flavors of a homemade Caesar dressing and savory bacon. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, packed with texture, and adaptable to many dietary preferences. Whether as a robust side or a main course, this salad is sure to become a new favorite for its perfect balance of hearty and refreshing elements.