If you’re on the lookout for a refreshing, crunchy salad that can complement fall menus, light lunches, or serve as a delightful side dish, the Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad is your answer. This vibrant and healthy dish blends the crispiness of fresh apples with the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts, enhanced with crunchy walnuts, sweet cranberries, and a tangy Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette. Whether you serve it as a starter, a side dish, or a main course, this recipe is a feast for both the eyes and the tastebuds.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the details of this dish—from its origins to the precise ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). So, let’s get started and learn how to craft this healthy yet indulgent salad that will surely impress your guests!
What is the Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad?
This salad is a delightful combination of finely shaved Brussels sprouts, crisp apple slices, and a variety of textures and flavors, from crunchy walnuts to chewy dried cranberries. Topped with a Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette, the dish has the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory elements. The vinaigrette ties the ingredients together, adding moisture and flavor without overpowering the freshness of the vegetables and fruits. With its seasonal ingredients, it embodies the spirit of fall, offering a refreshing contrast to heartier dishes.
Origin of the Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad
The origins of Brussels sprouts and apple salads date back to the European regions, particularly in the fall, where the produce is abundant and hearty. While Brussels sprouts have long been a staple in European cuisine, apple-based salads became popular with the rise of farm-to-table dishes. The marriage of Brussels sprouts with apples, along with a sweet vinaigrette, is a modern twist on classic salads, embodying a wholesome and seasonal approach to eating. This salad has grown in popularity, especially in North America, where people enjoy the versatility of combining these flavors for various occasions—from Thanksgiving dinners to everyday meals.
Ingredients for Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad
The beauty of this dish lies in the simplicity and availability of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups Brussels sprouts (trimmed and finely shaved)
- 1 crisp apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced or julienned
- ¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries or golden raisins (optional)
- ¼ cup shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta (optional)
For the Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Follow these easy steps to prepare the Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad and impress your guests with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious:
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and removing any tough, outer leaves. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to finely shave them into thin slices. The thin shavings allow the Brussels sprouts to soften slightly and absorb the vinaigrette more easily. Place the shaved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Slice the Apple
Next, take your crisp apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji are great options) and cut it into thin slices or matchsticks. If you prefer, you can julienne the apple for a finer texture. To prevent the apple slices from browning, toss them with a few drops of lemon juice. This will help maintain the apple’s vibrant color.
Step 3: Make the Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well emulsified, creating a smooth and glossy vinaigrette that will coat the salad ingredients beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the apple slices, toasted nuts, dried cranberries (or golden raisins, if you prefer), and your choice of shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta (optional) to the bowl with the shaved Brussels sprouts. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the top and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
Step 5: Let it Sit
Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps soften the Brussels sprouts slightly and allows the flavors to meld together. The result will be a well-balanced salad with tender sprouts, crisp apples, and a perfect blend of sweet and tangy notes.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the salad and garnish with additional nuts or cheese if desired. The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it an incredibly versatile dish for any occasion.
Variations of Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad
While the original recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways you can customize the Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to experiment with:
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.
- Change the Nuts: Instead of walnuts or pecans, try adding almonds, cashews, or even sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
- Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan or feta, try goat cheese, blue cheese, or a creamy burrata for added richness.
- Seasonal Variations: In the winter, you could swap the apples for pears, or add roasted butternut squash for a heartier version of the salad.
- Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile, especially if you’re serving this dish at a holiday gathering.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! While the salad is best when served fresh, you can prepare the components (shave the Brussels sprouts, slice the apples, toast the nuts) and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss everything together with the vinaigrette.
2. Can I make the vinaigrette in advance?
Absolutely! The Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette can be made a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good shake before using.
3. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar for the vinaigrette. Balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even red wine vinegar could work well, but apple cider vinegar offers a more complementary flavor to the salad’s sweet and savory notes.
4. Can I add more fruits to the salad?
Yes! This salad pairs wonderfully with other fruits, such as pomegranate seeds, grapes, or even orange segments. These additions will enhance the fruitiness while offering even more texture and color.
5. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure that the Dijon mustard you use is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Conclusion
The Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad is a versatile and healthy dish that combines seasonal ingredients to create a refreshing side or light main course. With its balance of crispness from the Brussels sprouts and apples, richness from the nuts and cheese, and tang from the Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette, it’s no wonder this salad has become a favorite on fall menus. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a daily salad, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization.
Remember, fresh ingredients and a little bit of time are all it takes to create a salad that not only looks beautiful but also delivers a satisfying and flavorful experience. So, give it a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors that this delicious Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad brings to your table.
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Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Apple Salad: A Fall-Inspired Delight for Every Meal
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This salad is a delightful combination of finely shaved Brussels sprouts, crisp apple slices, and a variety of textures and flavors, from crunchy walnuts to chewy dried cranberries. Topped with a Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette, the dish has the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory elements. The vinaigrette ties the ingredients together, adding moisture and flavor without overpowering the freshness of the vegetables and fruits. With its seasonal ingredients, it embodies the spirit of fall, offering a refreshing contrast to heartier dishes.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and finely shaved (use a mandoline or sharp knife)
- 1 crisp apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced or julienned
- ¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries or golden raisins (optional)
- ¼ cup shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta (optional)
For the Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prep the Brussels Sprouts
- Trim the ends and remove any tough outer leaves.
- Shave thinly using a mandoline or slice finely with a knife.
- Place in a large mixing bowl.
2. Slice the Apple
- Cut apple into thin matchsticks or slices.
- Toss with a few drops of lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Make the Vinaigrette
- Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad
- Add apple slices, nuts, cranberries, and cheese (if using) to the shaved Brussels sprouts.
- Pour over the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.
- Let sit for 10–15 minutes to soften the sprouts slightly and meld flavors.
5. Serve
- Plate and garnish with extra nuts or cheese.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
This crisp and refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy crunch of Brussels sprouts. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish, you can also top it with nuts, seeds, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Raw
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: None
Keywords: Brussels Sprouts Apple Salad, Apple Brussels Sprouts Salad, Fall Brussels Sprouts Salad, Healthy Brussels Sprouts Salad, Maple-Dijon Brussels Sprouts Salad
