This vibrant Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad brings together the crunchy freshness of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of pomegranate, the tartness of honey crisp apples, and the indulgent crunch of candied pecans. The shaved Parmesan adds a touch of creaminess, while the honey mustard dressing brings it all together with a zesty kick. Whether served as a side dish for a holiday feast or as a light lunch, this salad is bound to impress.
The combination of textures—from the crispy Brussels sprouts to the juicy pomegranate seeds and the sweet candied pecans—makes each bite a satisfying experience. Perfectly balanced, it’s a salad that’s not only packed with flavor but also visually stunning, offering a burst of color with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a special meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to elevate any occasion.
Full Recipe:
- 6-8 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
- 2 cups pomegranate seeds
- 1 honey crisp apple, cored and diced
- 1 1/2 cups candied pecans, chopped
- 1 cup dried cherries
- 1 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 1/2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, pomegranate seeds, diced apple, candied pecans, dried cherries, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve this delectable Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with your favorite crusty bread on the side.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 315 kcal | Servings: 4-6 servings
Irresistible Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans
This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is a delightful, vibrant, and indulgent dish that will elevate any meal. Perfect for the holiday season or a fresh addition to any dinner table, this salad beautifully combines the crunch of Brussels sprouts, the sweet burst of pomegranate, and the richness of candied pecans. The addition of honey crisp apples, dried cherries, and shaved Parmesan further enhances the texture and flavor profile, making this a refreshing and luxurious dish.
This recipe offers a harmonious balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, paired with the perfect dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and just the right amount of seasoning. Whether served as a main dish or a side salad, it will surely impress your guests and family alike. The salad is also a great option for those who love fresh, crunchy salads that offer more than just the usual leafy greens. The shaved Brussels sprouts act as the perfect base, offering a mild bitterness that is beautifully counterbalanced by the sweetness of the other ingredients.
A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
Brussels sprouts, often considered a humble vegetable, shine in this recipe by being finely shaved, allowing them to soften slightly and soak up the flavors of the tangy dressing. Shaving the Brussels sprouts also enhances their texture, making them more delicate and enjoyable to eat. The pomegranate seeds add a burst of color and a tangy pop with each bite, while the candied pecans bring a touch of sweetness and crunch, making this salad a perfect balance of flavors.
The inclusion of honey crisp apples introduces a subtle sweetness and crisp texture, making it a delightful contrast against the soft Brussels sprouts and creamy cheese. Dried cherries add a chewy, tart element, enhancing the overall depth of the salad. The shaved Parmesan cheese completes the dish by providing a savory, umami-rich topping that ties the entire salad together. It’s a great way to make Brussels sprouts exciting and appeal to people who may not typically enjoy them.
The Perfect Dressing
A salad’s dressing can truly make or break the dish, and in this case, the combination of olive oil, lemon juice, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey creates a dressing that is both light and flavorful. The acidity from the vinegar and lemon juice perfectly balances the sweetness from the honey and pomegranate seeds, while the Dijon mustard adds a slight kick and depth to the flavor. The olive oil binds everything together, ensuring the salad is coated just enough without being heavy.
You can adjust the ingredients to your preference, adding more vinegar for extra acidity or more honey for sweetness. This dressing is versatile and can be used for other salads, especially those that contain rich or bitter greens, as it helps to cut through the flavors while providing a refreshing zing.
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients, making them a great addition to any healthy eating plan. They are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, helping to improve digestion, boost the immune system, and promote heart health. This salad is a perfect way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
The high fiber content in Brussels sprouts helps regulate digestion and maintain a healthy gut, while the antioxidants help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamin K, which plays a key role in blood clotting and bone health. By combining these health benefits with the sweetness of the fruits and the richness of the pecans, this salad becomes both nutritious and delicious.
A Versatile Salad for Every Occasion
This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or pork, making it an ideal side dish for holiday meals or family dinners. If you’re looking for a light and fresh main dish, this salad can also stand on its own, especially with the addition of grilled chicken or a light vinaigrette drizzle.
For a more hearty option, consider adding roasted vegetables or even quinoa to the salad. This allows the salad to become a more filling meal, perfect for those looking for a substantial yet healthy dish. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, and try adding different fruits such as pears or grapes, depending on what’s in season.
This salad is also a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare the Brussels sprouts, pomegranate seeds, apples, and pecans in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply toss everything together with the dressing for a quick and easy meal or side dish. The salad holds up well in the fridge for a day or two, but it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the Brussels sprouts and apples can wilt slightly over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chef Bryan’s Irresistible Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is a show-stopping dish that is as flavorful as it is beautiful. With a perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and savory notes, this salad is sure to impress at your next gathering. Whether you’re looking for a festive side dish or a light main course, this recipe fits the bill. The health benefits of Brussels sprouts, combined with the crunchy pecans, juicy pomegranate, and fresh apples, create a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. So, next time you’re looking to elevate your salad game, try this recipe and enjoy a vibrant, mouthwatering salad that will leave everyone asking for more.