Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

Discover the fresh, crunchy flavors of Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing, a vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory delights. This salad brings out the best in Brussels sprouts by transforming their natural earthiness into a refreshing, easy-to-love meal or side. The maple dressing adds a subtle sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the sprouts’ slight bitterness, making every bite an irresistible experience. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a crunchy side, or a make-ahead dish that stays delicious, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Vibrant freshness: Shaving the Brussels sprouts creates a delicate, tender texture that’s light and refreshing.
• Sweet meets savory: The maple dressing perfectly counters the sprouts’ natural bitterness with a hint of warm sweetness.
• Easy to whip up: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this salad perfect for busy days or last-minute guests.
• Highly versatile: It’s a perfect side dish for any meal or a stand-alone salad for a light yet satisfying bite.
• Nutrient-packed: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, it’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering crisp textures, balanced flavors, and vivid color to the dish.

• Brussels sprouts: Thinly shaved to create a tender, easy-to-eat base that’s full of vibrant green and natural crunch.
• Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the dressing without overpowering the salad’s freshness.
• Apple cider vinegar: Provides a tangy contrast that lifts all the flavors and keeps the salad bright.
• Extra virgin olive oil: A silky component that brings everything together with healthy fats and smooth texture.
• Dijon mustard: Enhances the dressing with a subtle kick and creamy consistency.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and elevate every bite.
• Toasted nuts (optional): Adds crunch and a nutty richness for extra texture and flavor complexity.
• Fresh herbs (optional): Parsley or thyme add a fresh, aromatic layer that brightens the salad even more.

Variations for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, inviting you to make it your own depending on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. Here are some delightful ways to switch it up while keeping it simple and tasty.

• Adding fruit: Swap in diced apples or pomegranate seeds for a pop of natural sweetness and tartness.
• Cheese lovers: Crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan can add a creamy, tangy boost.
• Different nuts: Try walnuts, pecans, or almonds toasted for varied textures and flavors.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne in the dressing to add warmth and zing.
• Vegan tweaks: Keep it plant-based by skipping cheese and using pure maple syrup in the dressing.

How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels sprouts

Rinse the Brussels sprouts thoroughly, trim off the ends, and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shred them into thin strips to achieve a delicate, easy-to-chew texture that invites you to enjoy each bite.

Step 2: Make the maple dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify and create a smooth, flavorful dressing that balances sweet and tangy notes.

Step 3: Toss everything together

Place the shaved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Pour the maple dressing over the sprouts and toss well to coat all strands evenly. If using, add toasted nuts and herbs, then toss again for even distribution of flavors and textures.

Step 4: Let it rest or serve immediately

For best flavor, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing the dressing to soften the sprouts slightly and the flavors to meld. Alternatively, you can serve it immediately for extra crunch and freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

• Use a sharp blade: A very sharp knife or mandoline ensures thin, even slices that are easier to eat and digest.
• Toast nuts carefully: Toast nuts in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant and golden for maximum flavor without burning.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the dressing and adjust maple syrup or vinegar levels to suit your preferred balance of sweet and tangy.
• Prep ahead: Shave the sprouts and prepare dressing a day before; toss just before serving for the freshest taste.
• Massage the sprouts: Gently rubbing shaved sprouts with a pinch of salt can soften their texture and mellow bitterness.

How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing

Garnishes

Top the salad with a sprinkle of toasted nuts, crumbled cheese, or some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add layers of aroma, texture, and color that make every serving feel special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even your favorite grain bowls. It also complements hearty dishes like pork roast or vegetable lasagna, adding a bright, refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in a large wooden bowl for a rustic vibe, in individual glass jars for picnics, or plated with edible flowers and microgreens for an elegant, restaurant-ready presentation that impresses guests effortlessly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Combine and toss just before serving to keep the sprouts crisp and fresh.

Freezing

Since shaved Brussels sprouts and fresh dressings don’t freeze well, this salad is best enjoyed fresh. Avoid freezing to maintain the ideal texture and flavor balance.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, let it sit out for a bit to take the chill off, but avoid microwaving as it will wilt the sprouts and break down the dressing.

FAQs

Can I use regular Brussels sprouts or frozen ones?

Fresh Brussels sprouts work best for this recipe as they provide optimal crunch and flavor; frozen sprouts are typically too soft and watery once thawed, which impacts the texture and taste.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Prepare the shredded Brussels sprouts and dressing separately, then toss together shortly before eating to keep everything fresh and crispy.

Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?

Absolutely. You can use honey, agave nectar, or even a light touch of brown sugar, but maple syrup’s unique flavor profile complements the sprouts especially well.

How can I make this salad vegan?

Simply omit any cheese additions and use pure maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener in the dressing to keep the dish fully vegan.

What nuts work best in this salad?

Toasted walnuts, pecans, and almonds are excellent choices because they add a satisfying crunch and rich, nutty flavor that enhances the salad’s overall profile.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been looking for a new twist on a classic vegetable or a salad that delivers both crunch and depth, the Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Maple Dressing is your new go-to. Its harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and sweet-savory dressing creates a truly delectable experience that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Give it a try—you might just find your next favorite dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

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