Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant side dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, look no further than this delightful Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing. This recipe combines the crisp texture of thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with a sweet and tangy maple dressing that perfectly balances bitterness and brightness. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a festive side, or a dish that brings a fresh twist to your table, this salad is fast to make, packed with nutrients, and sure to please every palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with just simple knife skills and a whisk for the dressing.
• Fresh and Vibrant: The shaved Brussels sprouts create a light, crunchy base that feels indulgent yet healthy.
• Balanced Flavors: The maple dressing adds natural sweetness that harmonizes with the slight bitterness of the sprouts.
• Versatile Side or Main: Perfect on its own or paired with proteins to round out any meal.
• Loaded with Nutrients: Brussels sprouts offer fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants while the dressing enhances flavor without heaviness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing plays a key role in building flavor, texture, and visual appeal. The list is simple but thoughtfully put together to get a perfect balance of taste and freshness every time.

• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, firm sprouts are best for shaving thin to keep a crisp bite.
• Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the dressing for a rich, mellow flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides tanginess that cuts through the richness of the maple and brightens the whole dish.
• Olive Oil: Brings smoothness to the dressing and helps all flavors meld while coating the sprouts perfectly.
• Dijon Mustard: A hint of sharpness that balances the sweetness and enhances the dressing’s creaminess.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
• Optional Add-Ins: Toasted nuts, dried cranberries, or parmesan cheese add extra texture, sweetness, or savoriness.

Variations for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with these tasty variations to keep your salad exciting.

• Nut-Free: Swap nuts for crunchy roasted chickpeas or pumpkin seeds.
• Vegan Option: Leave out cheese and use maple syrup with extra vinegar for a tangy vegan-friendly version.
• Fruit Boost: Add pomegranate seeds or thinly sliced apples for a burst of juiciness and natural sugars.
• Cheese Swap: Swap parmesan for crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamier, tangier dimension.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing for heat.
• Herb Freshness: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or tarragon to brighten the flavors.

How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the stem ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow outer leaves. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shave the sprouts thinly into ribbons. The thinner the slices, the more tender and easy to eat the salad will be.

Step 2: Whisk the Maple Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Toss and Combine

Place the shaved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and drizzle the maple dressing on top. Toss thoroughly to ensure every sprout ribbon is coated evenly. Let the salad sit for at least 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Optional Toppings

Sprinkle your choice of toasted nuts, dried fruit, or cheese on top just before serving to add layers of texture and flavor that complement the salad beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

• Use Fresh Sprouts: Fresher Brussels sprouts taste sweeter and shave more easily than older ones.
• Mandoline for Precision: A mandoline slicer helps create uniform thin ribbons, making the salad more enjoyable.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes lets the dressing soften the sprouts slightly, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Toast Nuts Lightly: Lightly toasting nuts before adding them boosts their crunch and flavor dramatically.
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Start with less maple syrup and add more if you like it sweeter; balance acidity carefully.

How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

Garnishes

Top the salad with vibrant garnishes like chopped fresh herbs, toasted almonds or pecans, and a sprinkle of shaved parmesan or crumbled feta for a pop of color and extra layer of flavor. These little touches transform the salad visually and texturally.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even as a bright side to pasta dishes. It’s also a fantastic option alongside grain bowls or as a refreshing contrast to rich casseroles and seasonal roasts.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual mason jars for picnics, or arrange it over a platter with edible flowers, thin slices of radish, and lemon wedges for a stunning presentation that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the shaved Brussels sprouts can become softer as they absorb the dressing; tossing again before serving refreshes the texture.

Freezing

Due to the fresh and delicate nature of this salad, freezing is not recommended, as the texture will degrade and the dressing might separate upon thawing.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If needed, bring leftovers to room temperature rather than heating it to preserve the crispness and flavor balance.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this salad?

Frozen Brussels sprouts tend to have a softer texture and are not ideal for shaving raw. Fresh Brussels sprouts work best to maintain the crisp, delicate texture needed for this salad.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! Simply omit any cheese toppings or use a vegan cheese alternative to keep the salad 100% plant-based.

How long can the salad sit after tossing before serving?

The salad tastes best if served within a couple of hours after tossing, but it can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours without losing its crunch and freshness.

Can I make the maple dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to 3 days ahead and keep it refrigerated in a sealed jar. Whisk well before using as the ingredients may separate.

What nuts work best as toppings?

Toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts add the perfect crunch and flavor contrast, but feel free to use your favorite nuts or seeds.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the simplicity and brightness of a Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing. This recipe is one I love sharing because it brings out the best in a humble vegetable with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re new to Brussels sprouts or a longtime fan, this salad will quickly become a favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Go ahead, give it a try, and let the sweet-tangy maple dressing win you over.

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