Easy & Healthy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Ready for a salad that’s anything but boring?

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Apple, Candied Walnuts, and Lemon-Dijon Vinaigrette is about to become your new favorite! It’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and impressive enough for any occasion. The crispness of the shaved Brussels sprouts, the sweetness of the apple, the crunch of the candied walnuts, all tied together with a tangy lemon-dijon dressing… it’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss.

Why You’ll Love It

• The combination of textures—tender shaved sprouts, crisp apple, crunchy walnuts—is simply divine.
• It’s bursting with both sweet and savory flavors, creating a perfectly balanced and satisfying salad.
• It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick lunches, weeknight dinners, or last-minute potlucks.
• This salad is endlessly customizable; you can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Brussels sprouts in a way that even sprout skeptics will love!

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this salad apart is the combination of raw, shaved Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of apples and the irresistible crunch of homemade candied walnuts. The lemon-dijon vinaigrette is the perfect tangy counterpoint, binding everything together. Instead of cooking the sprouts, shaving them thinly keeps them surprisingly tender and delicious. It’s a fresh and vibrant take on fall flavors.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly shaved
• 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced
• 1/2 cup walnut halves
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Candied Walnuts: In a medium skillet, combine the walnuts, sugar, and water over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar is melted and coats the walnuts, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and spread the walnuts on a piece of parchment paper to cool and harden. Once cool, break into smaller pieces.
2. Make the Lemon-Dijon Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts and diced apple.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon-dijon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
5. Add the Candied Walnuts: Add the candied walnuts to the salad.
6. Serve: Sprinkle shaved Parmesan cheese over the salad, if desired, and serve immediately or chill for later.

Optional Toppings/Variations

This salad is fantastic on its own, but feel free to add any of these for extra flavor and texture:

• Dried cranberries or cherries: Add a touch of extra sweetness and chewiness.
• Roasted butternut squash or sweet potato: For added warmth and heartiness, especially during cooler months.
• Goat cheese or feta cheese: Offers a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds or pecans: For a different kind of crunch.
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes: If you like a bit of heat.

Expert Tips

• Use a mandoline or a food processor to shave the Brussels sprouts quickly and evenly. If doing by hand, make sure they are very thin and uniform for the best texture.
• Don’t overcook the candied walnuts; they should be nicely coated and shiny, but not burnt.
• Taste and adjust the dressing to your preference. Add more lemon juice for extra tang, or more olive oil for a milder flavor.
• For the best flavor, allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes after dressing before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
• If making ahead, add the candied walnuts and cheese right before serving, to prevent them from softening.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts? Yes, pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts would all be delicious alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for the candy coating.
• Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prep most components ahead. Shave the sprouts, chop the apple and make the dressing, store separately. Toss together right before serving.
• How long will this salad last? This salad is best eaten within a few hours of dressing. If you need to store it, keep the dressing, shaved sprouts, and apple separate.
• Can I use pre-shaved Brussels sprouts? Yes, but they may not be as fresh as if you shave them yourself. Make sure to check the expiration date.
• Can I add protein to this salad? Absolutely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or a hard-boiled egg would all be great additions.

Variations and Customization Options

This recipe is a starting point – feel free to experiment!

• Autumn Harvest: Use pears instead of apples, and add dried cranberries and toasted pecans.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a squeeze of lemon zest.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing, and use spicy candied nuts.
• Winter Citrus: Substitute orange or grapefruit for lemon and add some toasted pistachios.
• Vegan Option: Skip the Parmesan, and replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is a fantastic side dish for almost any meal. It’s also great on its own as a light lunch. Try serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty grain bowl. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a weeknight dinner. I love adding a bit of grilled protein to make it a full meal too!

Conclusion

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that’s easy to make and impressive enough for any occasion. The freshness of the sprouts, the sweetness of the apple, and the crunch of the candied walnuts all work together to create a truly unforgettable dish. So, why wait? Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Don’t forget to share your creations and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
• Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus
• Prosciutto Arugula Mini Quiches

Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious breakfast ideas and cooking tips. Follow us on social media for daily inspiration on making every meal special!