Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant side or a standout salad that packs both crunch and flavor, this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Shaving the Brussels sprouts transforms their texture into something crisp yet tender, perfectly complemented by kale, toasted almonds, and a zesty lemon dressing. Each bite offers a beautiful balance of nutty, tangy, and subtly sweet notes that make this salad irresistibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this salad lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a harmony of taste, texture, and color. Every element plays a crucial role — from the earthy Brussels sprouts and kale to the crunchy almonds and the bright, refreshing dressing.

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts: When shaved thin, these become the star of the salad with their crisp texture and slightly nutty flavor.
• 2 cups kale: Adds a sturdy green base and boosts the salad’s nutritional power.
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds: Toasted for a satisfying crunch and a warm, nutty depth.
• 1/4 cup hemp hearts: These add a subtle earthiness along with a boost of protein and healthy fats.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a rich, smooth mouthfeel and helps marry the flavors together.
• 1/4 cup lemon juice: Brings zesty brightness and a touch of acidity that lifts the entire dish.
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Balances the lemon’s tartness with gentle sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a mellow, savory undertone without overpowering the fresh greens.
• 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings out the taste of each ingredient.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick of heat that keeps things interesting.
• Ground pepper (optional): For a little extra spice, if you like.

How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe

Step 1: Shave the Brussels Sprouts

Begin by shaving the Brussels sprouts so they transform from dense little cabbages into delicate, thin ribbons. You can use a food processor, mandolin slicer, box grater, or even a sharp knife. I find the food processor quickest and most consistent. Place the shaved sprouts immediately in a large mixing bowl to prepare for the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare the Kale

Next, prepare the kale by rolling the leaves tightly width-wise and slicing them from top to bottom into thin ribbons. This technique ensures the kale is tender and easy to eat without losing its structure. Add the kale ribbons straight to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts for a fresh, green base.

Step 3: Toast the Almonds

Toast the sliced almonds to release their natural oils and deepen their flavor. You can do this on a dry skillet over medium heat or on a baking sheet in the toaster oven. It only takes about 2 minutes for them to turn golden brown and fragrant. Once toasted, add them to the bowl along with the hemp hearts, which add a wonderful nutty crunch and nutritional boost.

Step 4: Make and Toss the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes to make a vibrant dressing. Pour this over the vegetables and nuts, then get your hands in there and massage everything together. This step softens the Brussels sprouts and kale, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t be shy — the massaging really makes a difference!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your salad can be enjoyed right away, bursting with freshness and texture, or topped with your favorite protein to turn it into a hearty main dish. Either way, this crunchy, bright salad is sure to impress at any table.

How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra toasted almonds or hemp hearts on top just before serving for an added crunch. A few shavings of Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese can also elevate the salad, introducing a salty creaminess that pairs perfectly with the lemon dressing.

Side Dishes

This salad works beautifully alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a savory quiche. Its refreshing texture cuts through richer dishes and adds a burst of color and crunch to your plate. It’s also a fantastic companion for grain bowls or alongside hearty soups.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe layered in clear glass jars for a portable lunch or an elegant picnic. You can also turn it into a wrap filling by spooning it into large lettuce leaves or whole-grain tortillas for a light, crunchy wrap.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld wonderfully after a few hours, but the salad is best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days to keep its signature crunch.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. The delicate textures of shaved Brussels sprouts and kale won’t hold up well to freezing and thawing, resulting in a mushy texture.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh, raw salad, reheating is not necessary and not advised. Just give any refrigerated leftovers a quick toss before serving to refresh the textures and redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Frozen Brussels sprouts tend to be mushy once thawed and won’t shave nicely to achieve that crisp texture. For the best results, use fresh Brussels sprouts when making this salad.

How can I make this salad vegan?

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe is already vegan-friendly if you use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing. Just double-check any additional toppings like cheese if you’re adding garnish.

Is it okay to substitute kale with other greens?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of kale, try substituting with spinach or arugula for a different flavor profile and texture. Keep in mind, these greens are more delicate and might wilt faster once dressed.

What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, salmon, roasted chickpeas, or a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese make wonderful protein additions. They complement the salad’s flavor while keeping it light and satisfying.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to toss the salad with the dressing just before serving. This keeps the Brussels sprouts and kale crisp and fresh instead of soggy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about the crunch and bright flavors in this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe. Whether you serve it as a vibrant side or a light, nutritious meal on its own, it never fails to delight. So why wait? Grab those Brussels sprouts and kale, and give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite salad that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

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