Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad: A Simple, Delicious, and Healthy Recipe
This recipe for shaved Brussels sprouts salad is perfect for a light lunch, a healthy side dish, or a vibrant addition to your next dinner party. It's quick to make, incredibly flavorful, and boasts a beautiful presentation. This recipe focuses on maximizing the deliciousness of Brussels sprouts while incorporating SEO best practices for better search engine visibility.
Why Shaved Brussels Sprouts?
Shaving Brussels sprouts, instead of chopping or slicing them, offers several key advantages:
- Increased Surface Area: Thinly shaved sprouts provide a much larger surface area for the dressing to adhere to, resulting in more intense flavor penetration. This is crucial for maximizing the taste experience.
- Tenders the Sprouts: The shaving process gently softens the sprouts, making them more tender and easier to eat, particularly for those who find whole Brussels sprouts a bit tough.
- Improved Texture: The shaved texture provides a pleasant contrast of crispness and tenderness in the salad, elevating the overall eating experience.
Ingredients for your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
This recipe easily scales up or down to fit your needs.
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts: Choose firm, tightly packed sprouts for the best results.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Opt for a high-quality olive oil for a richer flavor.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This adds a tangy brightness that perfectly complements the sprouts.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a touch of sharpness and creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey): Provides a subtle sweetness to balance the acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is always best.
- Optional Add-ins: Toasted pecans or walnuts, dried cranberries, crumbled goat cheese, shaved parmesan cheese, pomegranate seeds.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
- Prep the Brussels Sprouts: Wash and trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts. Using a mandoline slicer or sharp vegetable peeler, shave the sprouts into thin ribbons. If you don't have a mandoline, a sharp knife will work, but be careful to keep the slices consistent in thickness.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the shaved Brussels sprouts to a large bowl and pour the dressing over them. Toss gently to ensure all the sprouts are evenly coated.
- Add-ins (Optional): If using any optional add-ins, gently fold them into the salad.
- Chill (Optional): For best flavor, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your shaved Brussels sprouts salad as a side dish with roasted chicken, fish, or pork. It also makes a fantastic light lunch or a refreshing addition to a larger meal. The beautiful colors and textures make it perfect for a dinner party or holiday gathering.
Tips and Variations
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- For a different flavor profile: Experiment with other types of vinegar, such as balsamic or red wine vinegar.
- Make it ahead: The salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
This recipe offers a delicious and healthy way to enjoy Brussels sprouts. By following these simple steps and incorporating the suggested variations, you can create a truly memorable dish that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy!
