Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad offers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts form the base. Crisp apple slices, chewy dried cranberries, and toasted pecans provide wonderful texture. The Gorgonzola cheese adds a creamy, pungent counterpoint. It’s a vibrant dish that feels both sophisticated and wonderfully comforting. This makes it a go-to for any occasion.

I find myself reaching for this salad time and again. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. It’s healthy yet satisfying. This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad also holds up beautifully in the refrigerator. It’s a fantastic make-ahead choice for busy schedules.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad is a winner for so many reasons. It genuinely feels elegant. Yet, it is so easy to make. Imagine serving something that tastes gourmet but took minimal effort! It’s a flavor explosion. The roasted sprouts, sweet apple, and tangy cheese are a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s a weeknight warrior. You can have this delicious salad on the table in under an hour. It’s also a versatile star. It shines as a side dish. It even makes a delightful light lunch.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad Ingredients

SAVE

The magic of this Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad truly lies in its harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It’s a dish that’s both nourishing and incredibly satisfying. Each component plays a vital role in building this flavor-packed salad. Let’s break down what makes it so special.

• Brussels Sprouts: These are the stars that roast to tender perfection with slightly crispy edges, giving a delightful chew.
• Apple: Adds refreshing sweetness and crisp texture that brightens the entire salad.
• Dried Cranberries: Provide bursts of chewy sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
• Pecans: Offer satisfying crunch and rich, nutty flavor.
• Gorgonzola Cheese: Brings creamy, tangy notes with a slight sharpness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Shallot: Adds subtle bite and mild oniony flavor that enhances the overall profile.
• Balsamic Vinaigrette: Ties all the flavors together with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard for a simple finish.

Substitutions and Tips:

For a vegan twist, simply skip the Gorgonzola. Or try a dairy-free alternative. Walnuts are a fantastic substitute for pecans. Dried cherries can also work instead of cranberries. They offer a slightly different fruity note. To enhance the nutty flavor, toast your pecans before adding them. Remember, all exact measurements are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad is easier than you think to bring together. Follow these simple steps for a delicious, healthy meal.

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this makes cleanup a breeze. Trim the woody ends off your Brussels sprouts. If they are large, cut them in half or quarters. Toss the sprouts with a tablespoon of olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper. Spread them on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for about 30 minutes. You want them tender inside and crispy outside. Remove them from the oven. Let them cool a bit.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Balsamic Vinaigrette

While the sprouts roast, make the dressing. Get a small bowl. Whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Stir in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Whisk it all until it looks smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple dressing ties everything together nicely for your Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple and Other Salad Components

Now, prepare your apple. Slice it thinly. Toss the apple slices with a little lemon juice. This stops them from turning brown. It keeps them looking fresh. Once the roasted Brussels sprouts are cool enough to touch, slice them into thin strips. This makes them perfect for enjoying in the salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad

Grab a big salad bowl. Add the cooled, sliced Brussels sprouts. Toss in the thinly sliced shallots. Add the dried cranberries and toasted pecans. Crumble in the Gorgonzola cheese. Finally, add the prepared apple slices. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over everything. Gently toss the salad well. Make sure all ingredients are coated. Serve your flavorful Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad right away. Enjoy every bite!

How to Store Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad

Have leftover Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad? Store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 or 3 days. For best results, store dressing separately. This keeps the salad from getting soggy. This salad really does not freeze well. The sprouts and apples change texture.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting Brussels sprouts. Give them space to get crispy.
• Taste and adjust the dressing before tossing. A little extra vinegar or maple syrup helps.
• For extra crunch, toast your pecans or walnuts. Do this in a dry skillet or the oven.
• Slice apples just before serving. Or toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To whip up this amazing Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad, you’ll only need a few basic kitchen helpers. You probably already have most of them!

• A sturdy baking sheet is essential.
• Parchment paper makes cleanup super easy.
• A small bowl is perfect for mixing your dressing.
• A whisk helps create that perfect vinaigrette.
• A large salad bowl is needed for tossing everything.
• A sharp knife and a reliable cutting board are key for prep.

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad pairs wonderfully with so many dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken. Pork tenderloin or grilled salmon are also excellent choices. It works beautifully as a light lunch, too. Just add a slice of crusty bread. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc is lovely. Sparkling cider is another great option. You can also garnish your salad. Use extra pecans or a bit of fresh parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time. Roast the Brussels sprouts, toast the nuts, and make the dressing up to two days before assembling. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble and toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to ensure the best texture for your Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad.

What can I use if I don’t have Gorgonzola cheese?

If Gorgonzola isn’t your preference or you can’t find it, other cheeses work wonderfully in this Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad. Crumbled goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shaved Parmesan can offer a similar tangy or savory element. For a milder option, feta cheese is also a great choice.

How do I get my Brussels sprouts extra crispy?

To ensure crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, make sure they are dry before tossing them with oil. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them plenty of space so the hot air can circulate around each sprout. Roasting at a higher temperature for a slightly longer time can also help achieve that desirable crispiness for your salad.

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