shredded brussel sprout salad

Name: shredded brussel sprout salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts; ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; ⅓ cup crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan; ⅓ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped; ¼ cup pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries

By Adeline Parker

Published on August 31, 2025

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There’s nothing quite like a bright, flavorful salad to liven up any meal. This shredded brussel sprout salad is a true gem in my recipe collection. It brings together a delightful mix of textures and tastes, with crisp sprouts providing a fantastic base. The tangy lemon-Dijon dressing just sings, especially when paired with creamy goat cheese and crunchy nuts.

I often make this healthy salad for potlucks or as a vibrant side dish. Guests always rave about its unique combination of flavors. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a go-to even on busy weeknights when I want something fresh and satisfying. This delightful shredded brussel sprout salad is a winner.

Why I Love This shredded brussel sprout salad

This recipe is a weeknight warrior. Seriously, it’s so fast! I love how it impresses guests without a fuss. The flavors are just amazing. It’s a healthy salad perfect for any occasion. It’s versatile too.

Speedy Prep: Ready in a flash.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone asks for the recipe.
Flavor Punch: Tangy, sweet, and savory.
Healthy Choice: Packed with goodness.

The Heart of a Great shredded brussel sprout salad

The magic of this salad truly lies in its vibrant ingredients. They come together like a delicious symphony. Every component plays a crucial role. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.

Key Ingredients:

Brussels Sprouts: These form the crunchy, fresh base. Shredding them makes them tender. They soak up the dressing beautifully.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: This healthy fat is the base of our vinaigrette. It carries all the wonderful flavors.
Lemon Juice: Adds that essential bright, tangy punch. It wakes up all the other tastes.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the tartness. It’s so good!
Dijon Mustard: Provides a subtle kick and helps emulsify the dressing. It adds depth.
Garlic: Just a hint adds savory complexity. It’s a flavor enhancer.
Goat Cheese: Its creamy texture and tangy flavor are divine. It’s a lovely contrast.
Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: Offer a fantastic nutty crunch. They add texture.
Pomegranate Seeds or Dried Cranberries: These bring bursts of sweet-tart flavor. They are a beautiful garnish.

Substitutions and Tips:

No goat cheese? Feta or shaved Parmesan work wonderfully.
Allergic to nuts? Toasted pumpkin seeds are a great alternative.
Want to boost the flavor? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your dressing.
For a heartier meal, toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Exact ingredient amounts are in the printable recipe card below!

How to Make the Perfect shredded brussel sprout salad

Making this vibrant dish is surprisingly simple. You’ll have a delicious shredded brussel sprout salad ready in no time. Follow these easy steps for the best results!

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

First, trim the tough ends off your Brussels sprouts. Give them a rinse under cool water. Remove any sad, discolored outer leaves. Now, for the shredding! You can use the shredding disc on your food processor. Or, a nice sharp knife works perfectly. Shredding makes the sprouts tender. This is key for a great brussels sprouts salad.

Whisk Together the Tangy Vinaigrette

Grab a small bowl or a jar with a lid. Combine the extra-virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Add your honey or maple syrup. A teaspoon of Dijon mustard is next. Mince one clove of garlic; add it in. Season with salt and pepper, of course. Whisk everything until it’s creamy. Or, just shake it up in the jar. Your tangy dressing is ready!

Combine and Marinate

Place your shredded Brussels sprouts into a big serving bowl. Pour that amazing vinaigrette right over the sprouts. Toss them really well. You want every single sprout coated. Let the salad sit for about 20 minutes. This short marinating time tenderizes the sprouts. It makes them so much nicer to eat. This is a crucial step for this healthy salad.

Add the Finishing Touches

Now for the best part! Gently add the crumbled goat cheese. Sprinkle in your toasted nuts. Add the bright pomegranate seeds too. Give it one last gentle toss. You want to combine these flavorful elements. Serve your beautiful shredded brussel sprout salad right away. It’s a truly delightful side dish.

How to Store Your shredded brussel sprout salad

This vibrant shredded brussel sprout salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them. Keep the undressed shredded Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 2-3 days this way. For the best texture, it’s ideal to add the dressing, cheese, and nuts just before serving.

If the salad is already dressed but without the toppings, it can also be stored for a day. Refrigerate it in a sealed container. Just add the crunchy elements right before you eat. This helps retain their delightful crispness. Avoid storing the fully assembled salad for too long. The sprouts can get mushy.

Tips for success with shredded brussel sprout salad

Shred sprouts finely for tenderness.
Toast nuts for best flavor.
Dress the salad just before serving.
Adjust lemon and honey to your taste.
Taste and season the dressing well.
A food processor makes shredding quick.
Marinate sprouts for a softer texture.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for shredded brussel sprout salad

Food processor (optional, for shredding).
Sharp knife and cutting board.
Small bowl or jar for dressing.
Whisk.
Large serving bowl.

Serving Suggestions for shredded brussel sprout salad

Pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or pork.
Serve it as a light lunch with some crusty bread.
Enjoy it alongside grilled fish for a healthy meal.
Complement with a crisp white wine.
Garnish with fresh parsley for extra color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this shredded brussel sprout salad ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! Prepare the shredded Brussels sprouts and the vinaigrette separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Combine everything and add the cheese and nuts just before serving. This keeps the sprouts crisp and the toppings fresh.

What are some good substitutions for goat cheese in this salad?

If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, no worries! Crumbled feta cheese offers a similar tangy profile. Shaved Parmesan cheese works wonderfully too, adding a nutty, salty flavor. For a creamy vegan option, try using small cubes of avocado or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.

How do I get the Brussels sprouts to be tender, not tough?

The key is shredding them finely. Also, letting the shredded Brussels sprouts marinate in the lemon-Dijon vinaigrette for about 20 minutes makes a big difference. This allows the sprouts to soften beautifully. Tossing them thoroughly ensures the dressing tenderizes them evenly.

Can I add other vegetables or protein to this salad?

Definitely! This shredded brussel sprout salad is super versatile. Feel free to add chopped apples or pears for extra sweetness. Cooked quinoa or roasted chickpeas make it a more substantial meal. Grilled chicken or shrimp are also fantastic additions for a protein boost.

Categorized in:

Dinners

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