Name: Crisp and Colorful Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Magic
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Shaved Brussels Sprouts (No substitutions needed.); 3 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (Olive oil enhances flavor.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (Lime juice can be used as an alternative.); 1/4 cup Toasted Pine Nuts (Can substitute with walnuts or slivered almonds.); 1/3 cup Dried Cranberries (Raisins or chopped dates can work as substitutes.); 1/4 cup Grated Pecorino Cheese (Optional) (Can use feta or parmesan instead.); 2 tablespoons Chopped Chives (Green onions or shallots can be used.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I rummaged through my fridge, I stumbled upon a bag of fresh Brussels sprouts that had been waiting for their moment to shine. Instantly, my mind sparked with the idea of a vibrant and refreshing shaved Brussels sprout salad. This easy 7-ingredient salad is a quick preparation that brings an uplifting crunch to any table, especially during the holidays when heavier meals often take center stage. Not only is it a healthful option packed with nutrients, but it also shines as a delightful addition to festive gatherings or a satisfying lunch on its own. Curious about how to add a crisp twist to your meals? Let’s dive into the flavors of this delicious salad!

Why Will You Love This Salad?

Quick and Easy: This shaved Brussels sprout salad comes together in just minutes, making it a breeze to prepare for any occasion.

Bright and Flavorful: The fresh lemon juice and sweet cranberries create a refreshing burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the earthy sprouts.

Nutritious Benefits: Packed with vitamins and fiber, it’s a wholesome option perfect for health-conscious eaters.

Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side to roasted meats or a standalone dish that can be customized with variants like Cucumber Shrimp Salad or a tasty Egg Pasta Salad.

Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is a hit at gatherings, bringing a colorful and crunchy element that appeals to everyone’s palate!

Make Ahead Friendly: Perfect for planning ahead, you can prep the salad a day in advance without compromising the delightful crunch of the Brussels sprouts!

Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Shaved Brussels Sprouts – The star of this salad, bringing a dazzling crunch and earthy flavor; no substitutions needed.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and is essential for the dressing; feel free to use another oil if preferred, but olive oil enhances flavor beautifully.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Balances the salad with a zesty acidity; lime juice can be a fresh alternative if you want to mix it up.
• Toasted Pine Nuts – These bring nutty flavor and delightful crunch; swap them for walnuts or slivered almonds for a similar texture.
• Dried Cranberries – Infuse the salad with a sweet chewiness; raisins or chopped dates can work well if you prefer.
• Grated Pecorino Cheese (Optional) – This adds a creamy and salty touch; feta or parmesan can provide a lovely twist on flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Chopped Chives – Adds a mild onion flavor to the mix; green onions or shallots are great substitutes that can also brighten the dish.

This shaved Brussels sprout salad is a wonderful addition to any table, bursting with vibrant flavors and textures that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, thinly slice the Brussels sprouts into delicate shavings. Aim for paper-thin pieces for the best texture and presentation. Once sliced, transfer them to a medium bowl, and you’ll notice their vibrant green hue that promises freshness and crunch in your shaved Brussels sprout salad.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice, whisking until the mixture is smoothly blended. This dressing will elevate your salad, providing a rich, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sprouts. Pour the dressing over the sliced Brussels sprouts, ensuring every piece is coated beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Sweet and Crunchy Elements
Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and dried cranberries into the bowl. Their flavors and textures will add delightful contrast, enhancing your shaved Brussels sprout salad with nuttiness and a hint of sweetness. Gently toss everything together with tongs, ensuring a harmonious mix of ingredients.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese and Chives
If you’re using grated pecorino cheese, add it now along with the chopped chives. These ingredients contribute a creamy, salty richness and mild onion flavor to the salad, respectively. Continue tossing gently until all elements are evenly distributed; the vibrant colors and contrasting textures should now be quite appealing.

Step 5: Season to Taste
Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. This step is essential for enhancing the flavors in your shaved Brussels sprout salad. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring that every bite is perfectly balanced and delicious.

Step 6: Let the Flavors Meld
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully, intensifying the overall experience. The Brussels sprouts will soften slightly while retaining their crunch, leading to a fresh and flavorful dish that brightens your table.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Just before serving, give the salad a final toss and, if desired, drizzle with a bit more olive oil for added richness. Transfer it to a beautiful serving bowl to showcase its vibrant colors and textures. Your shaved Brussels sprout salad is now ready to impress family and friends with its delightful appearance and exquisite flavor!

Expert Tips for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Uniform Slicing: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice Brussels sprouts evenly. This enhances the texture and creates a beautiful presentation for your shaved Brussels sprout salad.

Rest for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. This step helps meld the flavors, but don’t let it rest too long to maintain the sprouts’ crunch.

Dressing Balance: Ensure you taste the salad before serving. Adjust the seasoning of salt and pepper for a perfectly balanced flavor that compliments your shaved Brussels sprout salad.

Nut Alternatives: If you have nut allergies, feel free to substitute toasted pine nuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds, providing similar crunchy texture without compromising flavor.

Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or parmesan for unique flavor twists in your salad, adding richness and complexity to the shaved Brussels sprout salad.

Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this salad with delightful twists and substitutes!

Nut-Free: Skip the pine nuts and use sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens.
Creamy Option: Swap the grated pecorino for a dollop of creamy avocado for a rich texture that complements the salad beautifully.
Citrus Zing: Try using lime juice instead of lemon for a vibrant twist that adds a tropical flair to your shaved Brussels sprout salad.
Fruity Burst: Incorporate diced apples or pears for a sweet, juicy contrast that works wonderfully alongside the earthy Brussels sprouts. The added sweetness balances the acidity perfectly.
Protein-Packed: Toss in some roasted chickpeas for a hearty addition that boosts both protein and crunch, making your salad more filling.
Spicy Kick: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that elevates the flavor profile.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like mint or parsley to brighten the dish, giving an unexpected freshness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Cheese Alternatives: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy and creamy twist that takes your salad to the next level.

With these tasty variations, your fabulous shaved Brussels sprout salad can easily be tailored to suit any palate! For more inspirations, consider checking out the vibrant Chicken Crunch Salad or the refreshing Smashed Potato Salad that can add delightful variety to your meals.

How to Store and Freeze Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, add nuts and cheese just before serving, as they can soften over time.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the salad due to the delicate nature of Brussels sprouts and other ingredients. Freezing can compromise texture and flavor.

Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm salad, gently sauté in a pan over low heat until just warm, but be careful not to overcook.

Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep out for a maximum of 2 hours to ensure it remains safe and delicious, especially if it has been dressed.

What to Serve with Easy 7-Ingredient Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Brighten your meal with complementary flavors that enhance this crisp and refreshing salad.

Roasted Chicken: Perfectly seasoned roasted chicken adds comforting warmth and pairs beautifully with the salad’s tangy brightness.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, fluffy grain bowl brings substantial texture and earthiness that harmonizes well with the salad’s crunch.

Pairing this salad with quinoa pilaf builds a satisfying plate, integrating wholesome ingredients into one delicious meal.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots coated in maple syrup create a delightful contrast, enhancing the salad’s earthy profile and adding sweetness.
Creamy Feta Dip: This dip provides a rich and savory flavor that complements the salad’s refreshing elements, perfect for a light appetizer.
Sparkling White Wine: A crisp glass of sparkling wine elevates the meal, refreshing your palate between bites of robust flavors.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this rich, silky treat is surprisingly healthy and rounds out the meal, offering a lush sweetness after the tangy salad.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread gives a savory twist, perfect for scooping up the leftovers if you’re serving this salad as a main on its own.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Shaved Brussels Sprout Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the Brussels sprouts and prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The toasted pine nuts and grated pecorino cheese should be added just before serving to ensure they stay crunchy and flavorful. When ready to enjoy your salad, simply toss the prepped Brussels sprouts with the dressing, nuts, and cheese, and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This way, you’ll have a vibrant, refreshing salad that brings joy to your meal with minimal last-minute effort!

Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are bright green and firm to the touch. Avoid those with yellowing leaves or dark spots, as they may be past their prime. The smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender, making them ideal for a delicious shaved Brussels sprout salad.

How long can I store the shaved Brussels sprout salad in the fridge?
You can store your salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To keep the ingredients fresh, I recommend adding the toasted pine nuts and cheese just before serving, as they can lose their texture and crunch if left in the dressing for too long.

Can I freeze shaved Brussels sprout salad?
It’s best not to freeze this salad. Freezing Brussels sprouts and other ingredients can compromise their delicate texture and flavor. Instead, enjoy the salad fresh or prepare the components separately and mix them when you’re ready to serve.

What should I do if my salad is too bitter?
If you notice an unpleasant bitterness, a drizzle of extra lemon juice or a teaspoon of honey can work wonders! Toss the salad gently to incorporate the added sweetness. Additionally, letting the salad rest for 15 minutes will help mellow the flavors and enhance the overall taste.

Is this salad safe for my pet to have?
While the individual ingredients in this wonderful salad are healthy for humans, Brussels sprouts can cause gas in dogs, and some cheeses are not recommended for them. It’s best to keep this shaved Brussels sprout salad as a treat strictly for humans!

Can I customize this salad for different dietary needs?
Very! You can easily make this salad vegan by leaving out the cheese and opting for a plant-based oil. For nut allergies, substitute toasted pine nuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. I often adjust the ingredients based on what I have on hand, so feel free to experiment!