Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Cranberries
When we think of fall salads, this Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Cranberries always comes to mind. It’s crisp, refreshing, and bursting with flavors and textures that make it perfect for your holiday gatherings or a weeknight dinner. Coming from vegetarian households, we’ve learned to appreciate creative ways to showcase seasonal produce. This salad is a beautiful medley of autumn’s best ingredients, from shredded Brussels sprouts to tart apples, all tied together with a tangy apple cider vinegar Dijon vinaigrette. It’s simple yet elegant, making it a standout on any table.
Table of Contents
- About Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Cranberries
- Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
- What is in our Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Cranberries
- How To Make This Salad
- Have It Your Way
- Nutritional Facts
- Health Benefits
- Other Recipes You’ll Love
About Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Cranberries
This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Cranberries brings together the best flavors of fall in one dish. Shaved Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy base, while fresh apple slices add a sweet and juicy bite. The homemade apple cider vinegar Dijon vinaigrette is the secret to this salad’s brightness, balancing the richness of sharp cheddar cheese and the nuttiness of roasted pumpkin seeds and chopped pistachios. Add pomegranate seeds and dried cranberries for a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, and you have a salad that will have everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
- Full of Flavor: The combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors makes this salad unforgettable.
- Great Texture: Every bite is a delightful mix of crunchy, juicy, and creamy textures.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Celebrate fall produce with Brussels sprouts, apples, and pomegranate seeds.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday dinners, or even as a healthy weekday lunch.
What is in our Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Cranberries
- Brussels Sprouts: Shredded and raw, they create a crunchy, fresh base.
- Apples: Use a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a burst of sweetness.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds richness and a bit of sharpness to balance the flavors.
- Pomegranate Seeds: These little jewels add color and a tangy sweetness.
- Dried Cranberries: A chewy, sweet-tart addition that complements the apples and cheese.
- Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: For a salty, nutty crunch.
- Chopped Pistachios: Add a buttery, nutty flavor and extra texture.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Dijon Vinaigrette: Made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
How To Make This Salad
- Combine all the ingredients for the Apple Cider Dijon vinaigrette and set aside.
- In a salad bowl, massage the shaved brussels sprouts with a little bit of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.
- Add all other ingredients to the bowl with brussels sprouts.
- Pour the Apple Cider Dijon Vinaigrette over the ingredients in the bowl and toss.
- Serve in a bowl, and top with dried cranberries, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, pistachios, and roasted pumpkin seeds.
- Enjoy!
Have It Your Way
- Make It Vegan: Omit the cheddar cheese and use maple syrup in the vinaigrette.
- Add Protein: Include grilled tofu or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
- Swap the Nuts: Use walnuts or pecans instead of pistachios and pumpkin seeds.
- Extra Sweetness: Add sliced pears or candied pecans if you like a sweeter salad.
Nutritional Facts
This salad is packed with vitamins and nutrients from Brussels sprouts and apples. It’s high in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats from the nuts and seeds, making it a nourishing addition to any meal.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Antioxidants: Pomegranate seeds and apples are loaded with antioxidants that promote heart health.
- High in Fiber: Brussels sprouts and apples provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full.
- Healthy Fats: Nuts and seeds offer essential healthy fats for brain function and heart health.
- Immune-Boosting: Ingredients like Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamin C, great for boosting your immune system.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad
- Wood Ear Mushroom Salad
- Wasabi Cucumber Salad
- Asian Coleslaw
- Broccoli Caesar Salad
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Cranberries
Ingredients
- 4 Cups Brussels Sprouts shaved
- 2 Apple diced
- ½ Cup Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
- ¼ Cup Pistachios chopped
- ½ Cup Dried Cranberries
- ½ Cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese shredded
- ½ Cup Pomegranate seeds
Apple Cider Dijon Vinaigrette
- 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 1 tbsp Agave or Maple Syrup
- 1 Shallot
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- Salt to taste
Equipment
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients for the Apple Cider Dijon vinaigrette and set aside.
- In a salad bowl, massage the shaved brussels sprouts with a little bit of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.
- Add all other ingredients to the bowl with brussels sprouts.
- Pour the Apple Cider Dijon Vinaigrette over the ingredients in the bowl and toss.
- Serve in a bowl, and top with dried cranberries, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, pistachios, and roasted pumpkin seeds.
- Enjoy!
Notes
- Prep Ahead: You can shred the Brussels sprouts and make the vinaigrette a day in advance. Just assemble the salad right before serving to keep it fresh.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts and crisp apples make a big difference in texture and flavor.
- Balance the Dressing: Taste the vinaigrette before adding to the salad and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
Nutrition
Want to save this for later? Post this Brussels Sprouts and Apple Salad Recipe to the “Delicious Dinner” OR “Food Recipe” Board!
