If you are looking for a fresh, vibrant salad that bursts with flavor and texture, the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple Cranberries and Parmesan Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the crunch of thinly sliced Brussels sprouts, the sweet tartness of crisp apples and dried cranberries, and the nutty creaminess of Parmesan cheese, all tied together with a bright, tangy dressing. This salad is the perfect balance of crisp and tender, savory and sweet, making it a standout dish for lunch, dinner, or holiday gatherings that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. From the fresh and crisp Brussels sprouts to the sweet burst of cranberries and the salty Parmesan, these ingredients are both accessible and essential.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth, fruity base for the dressing that enhances every bite.
- Fresh lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that lifts the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brings a gentle tang that complements the apple and cranberries perfectly.
- Pure maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness to round out the dressing without overpowering.
- Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing.
- Garlic clove: Introduces a mild savory depth to the vinaigrette.
- Kosher salt & black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of each ingredient.
- Brussels sprouts: The star of the dish; thinly shaved for delicate crunch and freshness.
- Honeycrisp apple: Offers crisp sweetness and a juicy contrast to the savory elements.
- Dried cranberries: Adds chewy bursts of tartness that brighten every forkful.
- Sunflower seeds: Contribute a lovely nutty crunch and texture variety.
- Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, umami finish that complements the salad beautifully.
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple Cranberries and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper. This bright and flavorful dressing is what coats and unifies the salad, so take a moment to balance the flavors perfectly—it’s the magic behind every bite.
Step 2: Shave the Brussels Sprouts
Using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, thinly slice the trimmed Brussels sprouts. Shaving them finely makes the sprouts more tender and easier to enjoy raw, while preserving their characteristic crunch. This technique transforms the sprouts’ texture and makes the salad refreshingly light.
Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the shaved Brussels sprouts, chopped Honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Each ingredient shines through here, contributing contrasting textures and flavors—from sweet and tart to nutty and crisp—making the salad exciting with every mouthful.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to ensure every piece is coated. The dressing adds a luscious, tangy layer that brings all the ingredients together. It softens the Brussels sprouts slightly, enhancing the salad’s overall harmony.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Season
Sprinkle the shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese over the dressed salad, then season with a bit more kosher salt and black pepper according to your taste. Toss gently one last time to distribute the cheese and seasoning evenly. The Parmesan adds a savory depth and richness that takes this salad from bright and crisp to utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple Cranberries and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of indulgence and texture, consider garnishing the salad with toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans. A few fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, can add a burst of color and a subtle freshness that complements the salad’s flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Try it alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon for a nourishing, balanced meal. It can also shine as a bright contrast to comfort foods like mashed potatoes or butternut squash, cutting through richness with its zesty flair.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in clear glass bowls to showcase the beautiful colors of the shaved Brussels sprouts, red cranberries, and bright apple chunks. Individual mason jars make for charming presentation options, perfect for picnics or casual gatherings. For an elegant touch, plate the salad atop a bed of mixed greens or arugula.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the salad is best enjoyed fresh as the texture may soften over time, especially after it is dressed. To retain more crunch, you can store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing because the fresh ingredients—especially the Brussels sprouts and apples—will lose their crisp texture and become mushy once thawed. It’s best to prepare it fresh to enjoy the full burst of flavors and textures.
Reheating
Since this is a raw salad, reheating is not recommended. If you want to enjoy it warm, consider using the salad as a fresh topping on a warm grain bowl or tossed into lightly sautéed Brussels sprouts and apples, adding a creative twist to the dish.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Honeycrisp apple with another type?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples offer crisp sweetness, other firm and slightly tart apples like Fuji or Gala will work well and maintain the salad’s delightful crunch and flavor.
Is there a vegan version of the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple Cranberries and Parmesan Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to retain a similar savory depth.
How long does this salad keep once made?
For optimal freshness, enjoy the salad within two days when refrigerated. The dressing can cause the Brussels sprouts to soften, so storing components separately is a great option if you want to make it ahead.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or toasted nuts are excellent additions that complement the salad’s flavors while adding satisfying protein.
What’s the best way to thinly slice Brussels sprouts if I don’t have a mandoline?
A very sharp knife and steady hands can achieve thin slices by carefully trimming the ends and slicing the sprouts vertically. Take your time to ensure even, thin shavings for the perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple Cranberries and Parmesan Recipe that makes it a delightful treat any time of year. Its vibrant interplay of flavors, ease of preparation, and irresistible crunch make it a go-to salad that feels both wholesome and indulgent. I encourage you to try this recipe and watch it become a favorite on your table, bringing warmth and brightness to each meal.
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Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple Cranberries and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad featuring thinly sliced Brussels sprouts, crisp Honeycrisp apples, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and shaved Parmesan cheese, all tossed in a tangy maple-Dijon dressing. This easy-to-make salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors with a delightful crunch, ideal for a light lunch or a festive side dish.
Ingredients
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Kosher salt & black pepper to taste
Salad Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed
- 1 large Honeycrisp apple (or 2 small), chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/3 cup shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper as needed.
- Shave the Brussels Sprouts: Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, thinly slice the Brussels sprouts to create delicate shreds that provide a tender texture.
- Toss Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts with the chopped Honeycrisp apples, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients with the tangy, sweet dressing.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese over the salad. Season with additional kosher salt and black pepper to taste, then give the salad a gentle final toss to combine all flavors.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the sunflower seeds or substitute with toasted pumpkin seeds.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor in the dressing.
- Shaving the Brussels sprouts thinly is key to achieving a tender, salad-friendly texture.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance; store the dressing separately until ready to serve to keep the Brussels sprouts crisp.
- Feel free to add crumbled bacon or toasted walnuts for added texture and flavor.
