This festive Brussels sprout salad is packed with bright flavors! Thinly sliced sprouts mix with sweet cranberries, crunchy nuts, and a zesty dressing that makes every bite refreshing.
Even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts might change their minds after trying this salad! I love packing it for lunch; it stays tasty for days and brightens up any meal! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: The star of the salad! Fresh Brussels sprouts give the best texture. If you can’t find them, kale or shredded green cabbage can work well as substitutes, but they won’t have the same flavor punch.
Dried Cranberries: They add a sweet and tart note. If you’re looking for alternatives, raisins or chopped fresh apples will add a different sweetness. For a tropical twist, try dried mango!
Walnuts: Nuts give crunch and flavor. Pecans or sliced almonds are great alternatives. If you need a nut-free option, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds add a similar crunch.
Feta Cheese: Feta offers creaminess and a salty kick. If you prefer, you can use goat cheese for a different flavor, or omit cheese altogether for a dairy-free salad.
How Do You Make the Dressing Creamy Without Cream?
Making a dressing that’s light yet flavorful is essential for this salad. Here’s how to achieve that perfect balance:
- Whisk the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey together until it’s smooth and well combined.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to take it out!
- If you’d like a creamier texture, a spoonful of Greek yogurt works wonderfully in the dressing.
Letting the salad sit gives all the ingredients time to mingle and enhances the taste, making it even more enjoyable!
Christmas Brussels Sprout Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll want to let it sit for at least 10 minutes to maximize the flavor. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes to enjoy this delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
First, rinse and trim the Brussels sprouts. Cut off the ends and remove any outer leaves that seem damaged. Then, thinly slice them using a sharp knife or a food processor. You want them nice and fine for the best texture!
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, throw in the shredded Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese. Give it a gentle toss so that all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s well combined and creamy. This dressing gives a lovely balance to the salad!
4. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over your Brussels sprout mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure every bite gets a bit of that delicious dressing.
5. Let It Marinate:
Now, cover the salad and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors blend beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, you can serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. If you’d like, garnish with a few more walnuts or cranberries for an added festive touch. Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Christmas Brussels sprout salad!
Can I Use Shredded Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if needed. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before slicing and using them in the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can definitely make this salad ahead! Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving to keep the sprouts crisp. The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days when dressed, but adding the dressing just prior will ensure freshness!
Can I Substitute the Feta Cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, you can use goat cheese or omit the cheese altogether. For a nutty flavor, try adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the Brussels sprouts may soften slightly over time, but the flavor will still be delicious!
