Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad is a bold and delightful twist on the classic Caesar salad, offering a unique texture and flavor profile that will impress even the most discerning palates. By incorporating thinly sliced Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, savory Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and a creamy dressing, this recipe creates an unforgettable dish perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as a main course, this salad is bound to be a hit at your next gathering. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the origins of this recipe, the ingredients you’ll need, the step-by-step directions, and a few fun variations. Let’s get started!
What is Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad?
Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad is a modern take on the traditional Caesar salad. Instead of the usual Romaine lettuce, this recipe swaps in thinly sliced Brussels sprouts, providing a crunchy texture and slightly bitter flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy Caesar dressing. The addition of crispy bacon and homemade croutons adds extra crunch and savory depth to the dish, while the tangy dressing made from anchovies, garlic, mustard, and mayonnaise ties everything together. The result is a salad that combines the best of both worlds: a classic Caesar salad with a unique, vegetable-forward twist.
The Origin of Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad
The Caesar salad itself is widely believed to have been created by Italian-American chef Caesar Cardini in 1924 in Tijuana, Mexico. The original salad included Romaine lettuce, croutons, a dressing made with anchovies, garlic, lemon, olive oil, and Parmesan, and was famously served tableside. Over the years, the Caesar salad has been adapted and tweaked by chefs and home cooks alike, resulting in countless variations.
Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad is a more contemporary adaptation of this timeless dish, with the Brussels sprouts replacing Romaine lettuce. This variation has grown in popularity, especially among those seeking healthier options or those who enjoy experimenting with new textures and flavors in classic recipes. This salad is an ideal choice for anyone looking to update the traditional Caesar while keeping the rich flavors intact.
Ingredients for Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- ½ baguette, cut into cubes (for croutons)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Dressing:
- 2 anchovy fillets, mashed
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 lemons, juiced
- ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
These ingredients are relatively easy to find and will create a balanced salad with all the bold, savory flavors you’d expect from a classic Caesar salad, but with an extra twist thanks to the Brussels sprouts and bacon.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method for Brussels sprout salad
Step 1: Prepare the Croutons
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, cut the baguette into small cubes. Place the cubes in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper for extra flavor.
Next, spread the oiled and seasoned cubes onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them for about 15 minutes, turning them halfway through. You’ll know the croutons are ready when they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oven and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
For this recipe, you’ll need crispy bacon to add texture and richness to the salad. Place the bacon slices on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and let the bacon cool. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, begin by mashing the anchovy fillets with the minced garlic and Dijon mustard. This can be done with a fork or a small whisk. Add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. The dressing should be creamy and tangy with the perfect amount of umami from the anchovies.
Step 4: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are the star of this salad, replacing the traditional Romaine lettuce. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any tough outer leaves. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to slice the Brussels sprouts thinly. Place them in a large mixing bowl, ready for tossing.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Now it’s time to assemble the salad! Toss the thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with the prepared Caesar dressing. Add half of the chopped bacon and half of the croutons to the salad and mix until everything is well-coated in the creamy dressing.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the salad to a large serving platter or individual bowls. Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on top. Finish by garnishing with the rest of the croutons and bacon. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations of Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad
While this Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations you can try to make it even more personal or to accommodate dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:
1. Add Grilled Chicken or Shrimp
For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken breast or shrimp to the salad. The smoky grilled flavors will complement the crispy bacon and creamy dressing, making it even more satisfying.
2. Make It Vegetarian
For a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon and opt for roasted chickpeas or crispy tofu as a substitute. These will add the crunch you need without the meat.
3. Try Different Cheeses
Although Parmigiano-Reggiano is the classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. Pecorino Romano, aged Asiago, or even a sharp cheddar could work well in this salad.
4. Add Roasted Vegetables
To give the salad even more flavor, roast vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or beets to add a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish. The contrast between the creamy dressing and roasted veggies is a perfect combination.
5. Spicy Kick
If you enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing. The spiciness will add an interesting layer of flavor to the salad.
FAQs About Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad
1. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts, bacon, and dressing in advance. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to assemble the salad just before serving. The croutons may become soggy if left in the salad for too long.
2. Is it necessary to bake the croutons?
Baking the croutons gives them a crispy texture, which adds to the overall crunch of the salad. However, you can use store-bought croutons if you’re short on time. Just be sure to choose a high-quality variety.
3. Can I substitute the anchovies in the dressing?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of anchovies, you can substitute them with a teaspoon of capers or use anchovy paste instead. It’s important to note that these substitutions will alter the flavor, but they will still provide the savory umami quality typical of a Caesar dressing.
4. How can I make the dressing dairy-free?
To make the dressing dairy-free, simply omit the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and use a plant-based mayonnaise alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavor.
5. Can I make Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components in advance. Store the dressing, croutons, and bacon separately, and assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Conclusion
Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad is a creative, delicious, and satisfying dish that brings a fresh twist to the classic Caesar salad. The combination of crunchy Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, tangy dressing, and golden croutons creates a delightful medley of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or a gathering with friends, this salad will undoubtedly stand out. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create an unforgettable salad that everyone will enjoy. So, go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy this unique take on a classic favorite!
Print
Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad: A Unique and Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad is a modern take on the traditional Caesar salad. Instead of the usual Romaine lettuce, this recipe swaps in thinly sliced Brussels sprouts, providing a crunchy texture and slightly bitter flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy Caesar dressing. The addition of crispy bacon and homemade croutons adds extra crunch and savory depth to the dish, while the tangy dressing made from anchovies, garlic, mustard, and mayonnaise ties everything together. The result is a salad that combines the best of both worlds: a classic Caesar salad with a unique, vegetable-forward twist.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- ½ baguette, cut into cubes (for croutons)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Dressing:
- 2 anchovy fillets, mashed
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 lemons, juiced
- ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Croutons: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss baguette cubes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.
- Cook the Bacon: Place bacon slices on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake until crispy. Let cool, then chop into small pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, mash anchovy fillets with garlic and mustard. Add mayonnaise, ½ cup of the Parmigiano-Reggiano, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Using a mandoline or sharp knife, thinly slice Brussels sprouts and place them in a large bowl.
- Assemble the Salad: Toss Brussels sprouts with dressing, ½ of the bacon, and croutons until well coated.
- Serve: Top with remaining Parmigiano-Reggiano, croutons, and bacon. Enjoy!
Notes
For extra crunch and flavor, try topping your salad with toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts. You can also add grilled chicken or crispy chickpeas to make it a heartier meal. This salad keeps well for a few hours, making it great for meal prep or potlucks!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad