Welcome to your new favorite holiday side dish! This vibrant Brussels sprouts salad is a celebration of flavors and textures, featuring crisp, tart apples, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy, toasted walnuts. It’s not just easy to prepare and incredibly healthy; it’s also a showstopper that will elevate any festive meal. Forget soggy, boiled Brussels sprouts – this salad introduces them in their delicious, shredded glory, proving that raw can be remarkably refined.
Recipe Highlights
Why you’ll love it: This festive salad is effortlessly easy to make, healthy, and perfectly suited for any holiday gathering or special occasion.
How long it takes: Approximately 15 minutes of active preparation, followed by at least 45 minutes of chilling in the refrigerator for flavors to meld.
Equipment you’ll need: A food processor equipped with a slicing attachment or a sharp chef’s knife, and a large mixing bowl.
Servings: Yields 8 generous side servings.
There’s something truly magical about gathering around a table filled with delectable food and cherished loved ones during the holiday season. It’s a time for warmth, connection, and indulging in delicious traditions. While the main course often takes center stage, the unsung heroes of any holiday feast are often the vibrant, flavorful side dishes that complement the meal and add a touch of freshness. This Brussels sprouts salad is designed to be just that – a refreshing, elegant, and utterly irresistible addition to your holiday spread.
Beyond the culinary delights, the holidays also present a beautiful opportunity to extend kindness and share our blessings with those in need. Whether it’s contributing to food banks, volunteering time, or simply offering a comforting meal to someone facing hardship or loneliness, the spirit of giving enriches our own experiences. Sharing is at the heart of the holidays, and a dish like this salad, loved by many, can be a wonderful vehicle for bringing people together, both within and outside your immediate family circle.
I frequently prepare this particular Brussels sprouts salad for various get-togethers, and it consistently receives rave reviews. If you’ve ever been hesitant about enjoying raw Brussels sprouts, allow this recipe to be your delightful introduction. Think of it as coleslaw’s more sophisticated, grown-up cousin. The combination of thinly shaved Brussels sprouts, perfectly toasted walnuts, chewy dried cranberries, and the salty tang of Pecorino Romano cheese creates a harmonious blend that is simply captivating. It’s a culinary experience that’s rich in texture and bursting with flavor, designed to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become a new holiday tradition in your home!
As you plan your festive menu, don’t forget to explore other inspiring options to complete your holiday table. For a comprehensive list of ideas, be sure to check out our extensive round-up of Thanksgiving recipes!
For those feeling particularly fortunate this year, consider opportunities to give back to your community. Many wonderful organizations are dedicated to helping others, providing essential support during challenging times. Holidays can, unfortunately, be a source of significant stress for many families, whether due to job loss, illness, or unexpected financial burdens. In such circumstances, finding joy can be difficult, especially when basic needs like groceries are a struggle.
Feeding America stands as the nation’s largest hunger relief charity, tirelessly working to feed America’s hungry through a vast network of food banks. Their mission is not only to provide nourishment but also to rally communities in the fight to end hunger. You can easily contribute to their invaluable work through donations on their website, or explore a multitude of other ways to make a difference. Taking a moment to consider how you can help can truly embody the spirit of the season.
Unveiling the Magic of This Brussels Sprouts Salad
This Brussels sprouts salad is a symphony for your taste buds, meticulously crafted to offer a delightful interplay of every desirable characteristic you could wish for in a salad:
- Crunchy: From the fresh Brussels sprouts and toasted walnuts.
- Chewy: Provided by the sweet dried cranberries.
- Sweet: A hint from the cranberries and maple vinaigrette.
- Tart: The crisp Granny Smith apple and apple cider vinegar dressing.
- Bitter: The subtle, characteristic edge of raw Brussels sprouts, beautifully balanced.
- Rich: The savory depth of Pecorino Romano cheese and olive oil.
It’s truly got everything! What makes this salad even more remarkable is its affinity for a little “meditation” time. Unlike many salads that quickly wilt, this one actually improves with a brief rest. Prepare it in the morning, and it will be perfectly content in your fridge until you’re ready to serve. This chilling period allows the Brussels sprouts to soften slightly and fully absorb the bright, tangy dressing, deepening the flavors and creating a more cohesive, tender texture. It’s the ultimate make-ahead dish, ideal for busy Thanksgiving or other holiday meal preparations.
Essential Ingredients for Your Holiday Brussels Sprouts Salad
Crafting this exceptional salad requires a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients, each playing a vital role in its overall flavor and texture profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Brussels Sprouts: The star of our show! These adorable mini cabbages are transformed when thinly shredded. Whether you call them “shaved,” “sliced thinly,” or “shredded,” the goal is fine strips that provide a delicate crunch without being overpowering. When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for compact, firm heads with a vibrant dark green color for the best freshness and flavor.
- Apple: A crisp, tart apple is crucial for balancing the richness and bitterness of the other components. Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice, but any firm, tart variety like Honeycrisp or Braeburn will work beautifully, adding a burst of refreshing sweetness and texture.
- Green Onion (Scallion): Finely sliced green onions contribute a mild, fresh onion flavor that enhances the salad without dominating. For a slightly bolder taste, thinly sliced red onions or delicate shallots make suitable substitutes.
- Dried Cranberries: These jewel-toned berries add a delightful chewiness and a burst of sweet-tart flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Their vibrant color also adds to the salad’s festive appeal.
- Walnuts: Toasted walnuts are a must! Toasting brings out their inherent nutty depth and intensifies their crunchy texture, adding another layer of complexity. If walnuts aren’t your preference, toasted pine nuts or pecans offer excellent alternatives.
- Pecorino Romano Cheese: This dry, intensely flavorful Italian cheese introduces a wonderful salty tang and umami depth. You can coarsely grate it, break it into small, savory chunks, or shave thin curls directly onto the salad for an elegant touch. Its sharpness pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: The foundation of our simple yet potent dressing. Apple cider vinegar’s fruity acidity harmonizes perfectly with the apples and cranberries. Should you prefer, white wine vinegar, white balsamic vinegar, or rice vinegar can be used as alternatives.
- Olive Oil: Opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil. Its rich, fruity notes will enhance the dressing and provide a silky mouthfeel. The quality of your olive oil truly makes a difference in this simple vinaigrette.
- Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener plays a crucial role in balancing the sharp tang of the vinegar, creating a perfectly rounded dressing. Always use pure maple syrup for the best flavor; avoid artificial pancake syrups. Honey or agave nectar are also viable substitutes.
- Salt and Pepper: These essential seasonings are not to be overlooked. Coarsely ground salt and freshly cracked black pepper are critical for enhancing all the individual flavors and tying the entire salad together into a perfectly seasoned dish. Adjust to your taste, ensuring every bite is well-balanced.
Expert Tips: How to Perfectly Toast Walnuts
Toasting walnuts dramatically enhances their flavor and aroma, transforming them from good to truly exceptional. Here are a few simple methods:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally and watching them carefully to prevent burning. They toast quickly!
- Stovetop Method: Place the walnuts in a dry skillet (no oil needed) in a single layer. Heat over medium-high heat for about five minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Microwave Method: Arrange walnuts in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high in 1-minute increments, stirring after each minute. This usually takes 3-5 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.
Regardless of the method you choose, the key is to remove the walnuts *immediately* from the hot pan or plate once they’re toasted to prevent them from continuing to cook and potentially burning. Allow them to cool completely before incorporating them into your salad to maintain their crispness.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Delicious Brussels Sprouts Salad
Creating this flavorful salad is straightforward and highly rewarding. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time:
First, the Brussels sprouts need to be prepared. This involves trimming the ends and removing any loose or discolored outer leaves, followed by a quick rinse. Then, the sprouts must be thinly sliced, or “shaved.” For detailed guidance on how to achieve this perfectly, refer to our FAQ section below. You can prepare these shredded Brussels sprouts up to three days in advance by storing them in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator, making holiday meal prep a breeze.
Next, it’s time to whip up the simple yet incredibly flavorful maple vinaigrette dressing. This dressing requires just a few pantry staples: apple cider vinegar, pure maple syrup, extra virgin olive oil, and a touch of salt and pepper. Combine all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk them vigorously until thoroughly emulsified and well combined. The result is a perfectly balanced dressing that marries sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
Once your Brussels sprouts are shredded and your dressing is ready, transfer the shredded Brussels sprouts into a large mixing bowl. Add the dried cranberries and the thinly sliced green onions. These vibrant additions will begin to build the salad’s complex texture and flavor profile.
Now, prepare your apple. Cut the apple into thin, matchstick-sized pieces. To prevent the apple slices from browning, place them in a small bowl and toss immediately with a teaspoon or two of the prepared dressing. This small step helps preserve their fresh color and crispness. Then, add these dressed apple matchsticks to the large bowl with the other salad components.
Pour the remaining maple vinaigrette dressing over all the ingredients in the large bowl. Using tongs or a large spoon, give everything a thorough toss, ensuring that all the Brussels sprouts, cranberries, green onions, and apples are evenly coated with the delicious dressing. This step is crucial for distributing the flavors and allowing the sprouts to begin softening.
Cover the bowl tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least forty-five minutes, or preferably longer. This resting period is where the magic happens: the dressing works to subtly soften the raw Brussels sprouts and cranberries, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully and develop a more integrated taste and texture. This makes the salad even more enjoyable and less “raw-tasting.”
Just before you’re ready to serve, retrieve the salad from the fridge and give it one more good stir to redistribute the dressing and flavors. Then, scatter the toasted walnuts and the grated (or crumbled) Pecorino Romano cheese over the top. You can either leave them elegantly arranged on top for visual appeal or gently stir them into the salad for an even distribution of crunch and cheesy goodness. Serve immediately and savor the delightful interplay of textures and tastes!
Enjoy every fresh, crunchy, and flavorful bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Absolutely, yes! Raw Brussels sprouts are not only safe but incredibly delicious when prepared correctly. Many people are surprised by how flavorful and versatile they are in salads. Their slightly bitter edge is wonderfully balanced by sweet and tangy ingredients, as showcased in this recipe. If you’re new to raw Brussels sprouts, this salad is the perfect introduction. Beyond salads, they are also excellent when roasted, stir-fried, or sautéed. For more inspiration, check out our collection of Brussels sprouts recipes at the end of this post.
Preparing Brussels sprouts for a salad involves two key steps: trimming and then thinly slicing. First, trim a small portion off the stem end of each sprout and remove any wilted, loose, or discolored outer leaves. Give them a quick rinse under cold water. Then, you have two primary methods for slicing:
- With a Sharp Knife: Begin by cutting each Brussels sprout in half vertically, through the stem. Place the cut side down on a stable cutting board. Then, thinly slice them cross-wise, creating delicate shreds. Gently break up these slices with your fingers to separate them into individual strands.
- Using a Food Processor: For maximum speed and ease, utilize the slicing attachment on your food processor. Simply feed the trimmed Brussels sprouts through the chute, and the machine will quickly and efficiently shave them into uniform, thin pieces. This method is incredibly fast and ensures consistent results, saving you significant prep time, especially when dealing with a large batch.
This salad holds up exceptionally well! When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days. In fact, many find its flavors deepen and improve after a day or two as the Brussels sprouts continue to absorb the dressing. Just remember to add the walnuts and cheese right before serving for optimal crunch and freshness.
Customize Your Brussels Sprouts Salad: Creative Variations
This Brussels sprouts salad is wonderfully versatile, offering plenty of room for personalization to suit your taste or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these delicious variations:
- Cheese Choices: While Pecorino Romano adds a fantastic salty tang, feel free to explore other cheeses. Try breaking the Pecorino into small, savory chunks instead of grating for a more intense burst of flavor. Alternatively, experiment with crumbled feta cheese for a briny touch, creamy goat cheese for a milder profile, pungent blue cheese for a bolder kick, or a semi-hard Gouda for a slightly sweeter, nutty note. For a vegan rendition, simply use a high-quality dairy-free cheese substitute or omit the cheese entirely.
- Dried Fruit Swaps: If you’re not a fan of cranberries, or simply want to try something different, substitute them with other dried fruits. Dried cherries offer a deeper, richer sweetness, while golden raisins provide a classic, milder fruity note.
- Nutty Alternatives: Toasted walnuts are superb, but there are many other excellent options. Toasted pecans offer a buttery richness, almonds provide a crisp bite, and hazelnuts add a distinct, earthy flavor. For a different texture or if you prefer a nut-free option, consider toasted pine nuts, crunchy toasted sunflower seeds, savory pepitas (pumpkin seeds), or even crispy roasted chickpeas for a satisfying, protein-rich crunch.
- Add Protein: For an extra layer of flavor and heartiness, cooked, crumbled bacon is an absolutely delicious addition. Its smoky, salty notes perfectly complement the sweetness and tartness of the salad components.
- Brussels Sprouts Alternatives: If Brussels sprouts aren’t your favorite, or if you’re looking for a softer texture, you can substitute them with finely shredded green or red cabbage, or even a pre-packaged coleslaw mix for ultimate convenience. The dressing and other ingredients will still create a fantastic salad!
Smart Make-Ahead Strategies for Effortless Serving
Smart Make-Ahead Strategies for Effortless Serving
One of the many advantages of this Brussels sprouts salad is how well it lends itself to advanced preparation, allowing you to minimize stress on the day of your event. Getting a head start on certain components can make assembling the salad a breeze:
- Brussels Sprouts: The most time-consuming step is often the shredding of the Brussels sprouts. Once you have them thinly sliced, store them in a tightly sealed bag or covered bowl in the refrigerator for up to three days. This ensures they stay fresh and ready to go when you need them.
- Walnuts: Toasting walnuts ahead of time is a great way to save a few minutes. After toasting, allow them to cool completely to prevent condensation, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Dressing: The maple vinaigrette can also be prepared in advance. Whisk all the dressing ingredients together and store it in a sealed jar or container in the fridge. Before adding it to the salad, give it a good shake or stir to re-emulsify any separated ingredients.
Storing Your Brussels Sprouts Salad
Storing Your Brussels Sprouts Salad
This salad is remarkably resilient and stores beautifully. You can assemble the salad (without the walnuts and cheese) several hours or even a day in advance and keep it refrigerated in a tightly covered container. Add the toasted walnuts and Pecorino Romano cheese just before serving to maintain their optimal texture and freshness.
Any leftover salad can be refrigerated in a tightly covered container for up to four days. The Brussels sprouts will continue to soften slightly, and the flavors will continue to meld. Simply give it a good stir before serving any leftovers to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.
Transforming Leftovers: Creative Meal Ideas
Transforming Leftovers: Creative Meal Ideas
Don’t let any of this delicious salad go to waste! Leftovers can be ingeniously transformed into a satisfying and healthy main course. Elevate the salad’s nutritional value and heartiness by adding leftover cooked turkey, succulent shredded chicken, or even crumbled cooked sausage. For an added boost of complex carbohydrates and plant-based protein, consider stirring in some fluffy cooked quinoa or nutty farro. If the added ingredients make the salad seem a little dry, simply whisk together a small batch of extra dressing to moisten everything perfectly. Serve your reimagined salad alongside a warm, crusty roll or a comforting slice of leftover holiday pie for a truly delightful meal!
Explore More Delicious Ways to Enjoy Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and packed with nutritional benefits, including essential vitamins, powerful antioxidants, and valuable fiber. If you’re looking to incorporate more of these tasty green spheres into your diet, here are some fantastic recipes to try:
- Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin
- Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta
- Brussels Sprouts Salad with Crispy Chickpeas
- Vegan Quinoa Salad with Brussels Sprouts & Pepitas
- Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Grapes & Parmesan
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Maple and Cayenne
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Walnuts
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Asiago
Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts
Rachel Gurk
15 minutes
45 minutes
1 hour
8
side servings
Ingredients
1x
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Salad
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts
- 1 Granny Smith apple (or another tart, firm apple)
- 1 green onion, sliced thin
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 3/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts
- 3/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (see note)
Instructions
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and olive oil until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the dressing aside.
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Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming the ends and removing any outer leaves. Thinly slice or shred them using a sharp knife or a food processor with a slicing attachment. Place the shredded Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Add the thinly sliced green onion and dried cranberries to the bowl.
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Cut the Granny Smith apple into matchstick-sized pieces. In a separate small bowl, toss the apple pieces with 1-2 teaspoons of the prepared dressing. This step helps prevent the apples from browning. Add the dressed apples to the large mixing bowl with the other salad ingredients.
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Pour the remaining dressing over the entire salad. Toss all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure every component is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the Brussels sprouts to soften slightly.
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Just before serving, uncover the salad, give it another gentle toss, and then top with the chopped toasted walnuts and grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Pecorino Romano cheese can be grated, shredded, crumbled, or shaved into the salad, depending on your preferred texture. Other suitable cheese substitutes include feta, goat cheese, Gouda, or Parmesan. For a vegan salad, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Feel free to customize the dried fruit: golden raisins or dried cherries make excellent substitutes for cranberries. Similarly, other toasted nuts like pecans, almonds, or pine nuts can replace walnuts. For nut-free options, consider toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas.
- For an added savory element, cooked and crumbled bacon makes a delicious addition to this salad.
- This recipe yields approximately 10 cups of salad.
Video
Watch the video tutorial for this Brussels Sprouts Salad:
Click here to watch the video for Brussels Sprouts Salad with Green Apples
Nutrition
Calories: 255kcal,
Carbohydrates: 22g,
Protein: 8g,
Fat: 17g,
Saturated Fat: 3g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 7g,
Cholesterol: 10mg,
Sodium: 136mg,
Potassium: 434mg,
Fiber: 5g,
Sugar: 13g,
Vitamin A: 710IU,
Vitamin C: 74mg,
Calcium: 155mg,
Iron: 2mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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