There’s something wonderfully crisp and fresh about a Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad that makes it impossible to resist. I first whipped this up on a whim when I was craving something bright and healthy but still hearty enough to satisfy my appetite. The thin ribbons of Brussels sprouts become tender yet retain the perfect bite, tossed with zesty dressing and a sprinkle of crunchy nuts or cheese for contrast. Whether you’re tired of the usual fast food or looking to impress friends with a crowd-pleasing side, this salad strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll wonder why Brussels sprouts haven’t had their salad moment sooner!
Why choose Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad?
Freshness bursts in every bite with crisp, thinly shaved sprouts that brighten your plate. Effortless prep means you’ll have a vibrant meal ready in minutes, perfect for busy days. Versatility shines—add nuts, cheese, or fruit to suit your taste. Light yet filling, this salad satisfies without weighing you down. Plus, it’s a welcome twist on traditional greens, making every lunch exciting and memorable!
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Ingredients
For the Salad Base
- Brussels sprouts – Choose fresh, firm sprouts to get those perfect, crisp shavings.
- Lemon juice – Adds bright acidity that lifts the entire salad’s flavor.
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Use a good quality one for a smooth, fragrant dressing.
- Salt – Enhances all the fresh ingredients, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- Freshly cracked black pepper – Brings a subtle kick and depth to the salad.
For the Crunch & Contrast
- Toasted nuts (walnuts or almonds) – Offer a crunchy texture that complements the tender sprouts.
- Parmesan cheese shavings – Provide a salty, savory punch that pairs beautifully with the crispness.
Optional Add-ins
- Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds – Add a touch of sweetness and color to brighten the dish.
- Apple slices – Thinly sliced for a fresh, sweet crispness that balances the savory notes.
This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad ingredient lineup is designed to create a refreshing, vibrant lunch that feels decadent without the fuss!
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
- Shave Sprouts: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to thinly slice 1 pound of fresh Brussels sprouts into crisp, pale-green ribbons that stay tender yet deliver the perfect bite.
- Whisk Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper until smooth and emulsified.
- Toss Salad: Place shaved sprouts in a large bowl, pour dressing over them, and toss gently for 1 minute until each ribbon glistens with a vibrant, tangy sheen.
- Add Crunch: Fold in ½ cup toasted walnuts or almonds and ⅓ cup Parmesan shavings, tossing just once to preserve crunch and ensure even distribution of salty, nutty flavor.
- Rest & Serve: Let the salad rest 5 minutes at room temperature to mellow flavors, then transfer to a serving platter, topping with optional dried cranberries or sliced apple for color and sweetness.
Optional: Drizzle extra olive oil or sprinkle fresh herbs before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
- Choose fresh sprouts: Select firm, vibrant Brussels sprouts without yellowing to ensure crispness when shaved.
- Shave thinly and safely: Use a mandoline or sharp knife for delicate ribbons; thicker cuts can taste bitter and tough.
- Balance flavors: Always whisk lemon juice and olive oil until emulsified for a smooth dressing that clings evenly to the sprouts.
- Add texture last: Fold in nuts and cheese gently at the end to keep their crunch and distinct flavor in the salad.
- Rest before serving: Letting the salad sit for 5 minutes helps the Brussels sprouts soften slightly and the flavors meld beautifully.
Variations & Substitutions for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will elevate your salad experience to new heights!
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Vegan Cheese: Swap Parmesan for your favorite vegan cheese to keep it plant-based while adding creaminess and flavor.
Adding a nutty, dairy-free cheese option creates a harmonious blend that’s just as satisfying! -
Apple Cider Vinegar: Replace lemon juice with apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter, tangy dressing that pairs wonderfully with the sprouts.
The distinct flavor of apple cider vinegar gives a warm twist that complements the dish beautifully. -
Maple Syrup: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup into your dressing for a hint of sweetness that balances out the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts.
This sweet touch creates layers of flavor that will surprise and delight your taste buds! -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for an extra zing, bringing a delightful heat to your salad.
The little burst of spice will wake up your palate and keep every bite exciting! -
Grated Carrots: Include shredded carrots for a pop of color and sweetness, enhancing the texture and flavor profile of your salad.
Carrots add a satisfying crunch and brighten up the dish with their vibrant hue! -
Quinoa Boost: Toss in cooked quinoa for extra protein, making this salad more filling and nutritious while still retaining its refreshing essence.
This hearty addition transforms your salad into a more complete meal, perfect for lunch! -
Sunflower Seeds: Substitute nuts with roasted sunflower seeds for a nut-free option that provides a similar crunch and delightful flavor.
They add a delightful earthiness and texture that perfectly complements the fresh Brussels sprouts. -
Citrus Zest: Add some lemon or orange zest to the dressing for an aromatic boost that enhances the salad’s freshness and vibrancy.
This simple addition will elevate your dish, making it even more fragrant and enjoyable!
What to Serve with Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this vibrant salad with delicious options that harmonize wonderfully.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken adds a hearty element and complements the salad’s fresh brightness. Opt for citrus or herb marinades to enhance flavors.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly spiced quinoa creates a nutty backdrop that pairs beautifully with the tangy Brussels sprouts. It’s a wholesome, protein-packed addition!
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts the salad’s acidity and provides a satisfying textural balance. Drizzle with honey for extra richness.
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Seared Salmon: The rich, buttery flavor of salmon contrasts nicely with the crispness of the salad while keeping your meal sophisticated and light.
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Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing, adding a comforting texture and heartiness to the meal.
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Red Wine: A glass of Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the salad’s flavors, creating a delightful pairing that makes every bite feel special.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse rounds off the meal with a touch of indulgence, balancing the salad’s freshness with a sweet finish.
How to Store and Freeze Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully, but the sprouts may soften slightly.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of Brussels sprouts can become mushy when thawed. Enjoy fresh!
Reheating: If you prefer warmth, lightly sauté the salad in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes, just until heated through, keeping the crunch intact.
Make Ahead Options
These Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can shave the Brussels sprouts and prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance, keeping the sprouts crisp and fresh. Simply store the shaved sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. You can also toast the nuts and have the cheese ready to go. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything in a bowl, toss it with the dressing, and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy delicious, restaurant-worthy results with minimal effort!
Easy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad That Will Transform Your Lunch Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts for shaving?
Pick firm, bright green sprouts without any yellowing or dark spots all over. Freshness is key for crisp ribbons that don’t turn bitter or mushy after shaving.
Can I store leftover Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad?
Absolutely! Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, but be aware the sprouts will soften a bit—the salad is still delicious!
Is it possible to freeze Shaved Brusselsprout Salad?
I don’t recommend freezing this salad. Brussels sprouts tend to lose their crisp texture and become mushy after thawing. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh to savor its delightful crunch.
What if my sprouts taste bitter or tough after shaving?
Try shaving thinner slices with a sharp knife or mandoline—the thinner the ribbons, the less bitter and tough they’ll be. Also, letting the salad rest for 5 minutes with the dressing helps mellow any bite.
Can I make this salad suitable for people with nut allergies?
Definitely! You can simply omit the nuts and substitute crunchy roasted chickpeas or toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. These alternatives keep the salad crunchy and safe for nut-sensitive eaters.
Easy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad That Will Transform Your Lunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to thinly slice 1 pound of fresh Brussels sprouts into ribbons.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
- Place shaved sprouts in a bowl, pour dressing over them, and toss gently for 1 minute.
- Fold in 1/2 cup toasted nuts and 1/3 cup Parmesan shavings, tossing just once.
- Let the salad rest 5 minutes at room temperature before serving, topping with optional add-ins.
