Name: Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces shaved brussels sprouts (stems removed); 1.5 cups pomegranate arils; 1.5 cups honeycrisp apple (diced); 1 cup candied pecans (or toasted); 3/4 cup dried cranberries; 3/4 cup shaved parmesan; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1.5 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1.5 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups chopped pecans; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1.5 tablespoons water

Introduction to Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Why Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is a Game Changer for Homemade Meals

If you haven't tried a shaved Brussels sprout salad yet, you are in for a delightful culinary experience! This vibrant dish has taken the food scene by storm, and for very good reasons. Not only does this salad boast an eye-catching appeal, but it also brings a powerhouse of flavors and textures to your table. When you combine the nutty crunch of pecans, the juicy bursts of pomegranate arils, and the peppery notes of fresh Brussels sprouts, you elevate your everyday meals from ordinary to extraordinary.

What’s more, this salad is incredibly versatile. It's the perfect accompaniment to holiday feasts or a light lunch, making it a brilliant choice for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. According to a recent study by the Produce for Better Health Foundation, incorporating more vegetables in your diet can significantly improve your overall health and well-being. With this shaved Brussels sprout salad, you’ll not only satisfy your taste buds, but you'll also be doing your body a favor.

So whether you're prepping for a special occasion or simply want to boost your veggie intake, this salad is a terrific option. Ready to dive into this deliciously refreshing dish? Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Creating a delightful shaved Brussels sprout salad is all about having the right ingredients on hand. This vibrant salad, with its mix of flavors and textures, is perfect for any gathering. Here’s a breakdown of what you need for this delicious dish!

Salad Ingredients

12 ounces shaved Brussels sprouts, stems removed
1 ½ cups pomegranate arils for a pop of sweetness and color
1 ½ cups diced Honeycrisp apple, adding a crisp texture
1 cup pecans, candied for a hint of sweetness or toasted for a nuttier flavor
¾ cup dried cranberries to bring in some tartness
¾ cup shaved Parmesan for a rich, cheesy finish

Vinaigrette Ingredients

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for a smooth base
1 ½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness
1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar to enhance the flavors
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard for a zesty kick
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey as a natural sweetener
1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper to round out the taste

Candied Pecans Ingredients

2 cups chopped pecans for crunch
⅓ cup brown sugar to create that necessary sweetness
1 teaspoon cinnamon for warmth and depth
¼-1/2 teaspoon cayenne, optional for a bit of spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a lovely aroma
¾ teaspoon salt to balance the sweet and savory
1 ½ tablespoons water for combining

Making this shaved Brussels sprout salad isn’t just about these ingredients—it's about coming together over an unforgettable dish. And the best part? You can find fresh ingredients at your local farmers' market or grocery store, making it that much easier to whip up this holiday favorite. Want more festive recipes? Explore additional ideas on sites like The Spruce Eats or Food Network.

Preparing Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Creating a shaved brussels sprout salad with pomegranate and candied pecans is simpler than you might think! This vibrant dish is not only packed with flavors but also looks stunning on any table. Let’s dive into how to prepare each element of this delicious salad.

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Pecans

Begin with the flavorsome candied pecans, as they need time to cool and crisp up. In a medium saucepan, combine:

⅓ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼-1/2 teaspoon cayenne (adjust based on your spice preference)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ teaspoon salt
1 ½ tablespoon water

Heat this mixture over medium heat for about a minute, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Once combined, add in 2 cups of chopped pecans. Keep stirring for 3-5 minutes until the glaze thickens and becomes shiny. Transfer the mixture onto parchment paper to cool completely before breaking it up. These pecans can be used not only in the shaved brussels sprout salad but also as a delightful snack!

Step 2: Shave Those Brussels Sprouts

Next, let’s prepare the star of our salad: the brussels sprouts! You can either buy pre-shredded brussels sprouts or shave them yourself. If you're doing it at home, use a food processor with a shredder attachment, a mandoline, or a sharp knife. Aim for about 12 ounces of shredded sprouts. As you’re slicing, think about how these little green jewels will absorb all the delicious vinaigrette—yum!

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your freshly shaved brussels sprouts alongside:

1 ½ cups pomegranate arils
1 ½ cups diced honeycrisp apple
1 cup of your candied pecans (or toasted pecans if you prefer)
¾ cup dried cranberries
¾ cup shaved parmesan

Feel free to add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an added splash of color and flavor.

Step 4: Whisk Together the Vinaigrette

In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 ½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Whisk until emulsified—a well-blended vinaigrette brings all of these wonderful flavors together.

Step 5: Toss and Let It Rest

Pour the vinaigrette over your salad mixture and toss everything together until the brussels sprouts are well coated. This step is crucial, as allowing the salad to sit for about 30 minutes lets the acid in the dressing soften the sprouts slightly, enhancing their flavor.

Lastly, just before serving, feel free to top with a little extra parmesan, pomegranate arils, and candied pecans for that wow factor. Enjoy your colorful and nutritious shaved brussels sprout salad as a perfect holiday side or a healthy lunch!

For more tips on perfecting your salad skills, check out this guide on how to make salads exciting from Food Network!

Variations on Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Add Some Turkey Bacon for Extra Flavor

For those looking to elevate their shaved Brussels sprout salad, adding crispy turkey bacon can make a delightful difference. The salty crunch pairs wonderfully with the fresh sprouts and sweet pomegranate, resulting in a satisfying mix of textures. Just cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it over the top, and you've got a savory twist that meat lovers will appreciate!

Swap Candied Pecans for Toasted Almonds

If you're in the mood for a lighter crunch, consider swapping out the candied pecans for toasted almonds. Almonds provide a lovely nutty flavor that complements the salad’s sweetness while keeping it slightly healthier. Just toss them in a dry skillet for a few minutes until golden, and sprinkle them generously over your salad. For a great resource on nut nutrition, check out this article from Healthline.

Experiment with Different Fruits

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fruit choices in the shaved Brussels sprout salad! While pomegranates and honeycrisp apples are fantastic, you can also try adding sliced pears, citrus segments, or even fresh figs. These variations not only add interesting flavor profiles but also enhance the dish’s visual appeal. Have fun experimenting—after all, cooking is about making it your own!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Make Ahead Tips

Planning to impress your guests? This shaved Brussels sprout salad is a perfect dish to prepare in advance. You can assemble the salad up to 24 hours before serving, including the dressing. Just remember, for that extra crunch, hold off on adding the pecans until right before you dig in!

Optimizing Texture with Timing

For the best texture, allow your salad to sit for about 30 minutes after mixing in the dressing. This resting period not only enhances flavor but also softens the sprouts slightly, making each bite delightful.

Storage Recommendations

Got leftovers? Place them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within four days. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the softer it will become, so try to enjoy it fresh! For more tips on ingredient storage, check out reputable sources like the USDA.

Serving Suggestions for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Pairing with Proteins

This shaved Brussels sprout salad is versatile enough to pair with various proteins! Consider adding grilled chicken or turkey bacon for a hearty touch. For a vegetarian option, try quinoa or chickpeas for added protein and texture. You could even top it with smoked salmon for a sophisticated twist. Each protein option brings unique flavors that can elevate your salad experience.

Ideal Serving Situations

Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a refreshing weeknight dinner, this salad shines in any setting. Its vibrant colors and crunchy textures make it visually appealing on buffet tables. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dish, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.

Creative Presentation Ideas

For visual impact, serve your shaved Brussels sprout salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase its beautiful layers. Garnish with extra pomegranate seeds and a sprinkle of shaved parmesan on top. For individual servings, try using small mason jars for a fun and trendy presentation. Consider adding edible flowers for a pop of color and an elegant touch—this will impress any crowd!

Time Breakdown for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Preparation Time

Getting started on this delicious shaved brussels sprout salad is a breeze! You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients, making it a perfect choice even on busy days. This includes washing, shaving the sprouts, and preparing your candied pecans if you choose to make them from scratch.

Cooking Time

Cooking the candied pecans takes approximately 10-15 minutes. If you decide to skip homemade and use store-bought pecans, you'll save time here! The rest of the salad comes together quickly with the dressing and a bit of tossing.

Total Time

From start to finish, you'll spend around 40 minutes preparing this festive salad. Considering its incredible taste and holiday appeal, that’s a solid investment in your meal prep! For more tips on optimizing your cooking experience, feel free to check out guides on time-saving kitchen hacks.

This salad is not only a visual showstopper but also a delightful addition to your holiday spread. Who wouldn't want to whip up something this vibrant and delicious?

Nutritional Facts for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Calories

This shaved brussels sprout salad packs a nutritious punch with approximately 299 calories per serving. It’s a delightful option for health-conscious eaters seeking a tasty yet filling dish without the guilt.

Carbohydrates

Each serving contains around 32.7 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the wholesome ingredients like apples and cranberries. These carbs provide not just energy but also essential nutrients, making this salad a satisfying choice for your meal.

Protein Content

With 6.2 grams of protein per serving, this salad isn't just a side dish. Thanks to the pecans and parmesan, it offers a good balance of protein to help keep you energized throughout your day. Enjoy this recipe during your busy weekdays or as a festive delight!

For more detailed nutritional insights, check out sources such as the USDA FoodData Central or NutritionData.

FAQs about Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Can I use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! Using pre-shredded Brussels sprouts is a great time-saver. Most grocery stores carry them, making it easy to whip up this salad without the hassle of chopping. Just make sure to check the package for any added ingredients that may alter the flavor of your dish.

How do I keep the salad fresh for longer?

To keep your shaved Brussels sprout salad fresh, try storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Avoid adding the candied pecans until right before serving to maintain their crunch. If prepared correctly, your salad can last up to four days, though it may get a little soggier over time due to the dressing.

What can I substitute for pomegranate arils?

If pomegranate arils aren’t available, don’t fret! You can substitute them with other sweet berries like raspberries or blackberries, or even citrus segments. Diced apples can also add that sweet crunch, making your salad just as delightful without losing any of the vibrant flavors.

For more tips on keeping your salads fresh, check out this guide.

Conclusion on Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

In summary, this shaved brussels sprout salad with pomegranate and candied pecans is a delightful dish that captures the essence of festive flavors and textures. Perfect for gatherings, it's not only easy to prepare but also offers a nutritious and visually stunning addition to your holiday table. Enjoy!