This crunchy Brussels sprout salad is a refreshing treat! Tossed with creamy goat cheese, it’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.
Honestly, this salad is like a party on a plate! I love how easy it is to make—a quick chop, a little mixing, and it’s ready. Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are the stars of this salad. If they’re not available, you can use bagged pre-shredded Brussels sprouts to save time. Just remember to check the freshness!
Dried Cranberries or Raisins: Cranberries add a lovely sweetness. If you’re looking for alternatives, try dried cherries or chopped dates for a different twist!
Nuts: Pine nuts or walnuts offer great crunch and flavor. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can make a tasty substitute.
Goat Cheese: I love the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, but if you’re not a fan, feta or crumbled blu cheese works well too. Vegan cheese is also an option for a plant-based version!
Olive Oil and Honey: Olive oil is great for dressing, but avocado oil can stand in if needed. Instead of honey, maple syrup is a good vegan alternative.
How Do You Shred Brussels Sprouts Easily?
Shredding Brussels sprouts can seem tricky, but it’s simple! You can use a sharp knife or a food processor for quick results. Here’s how:
- Trim off the stem end of each Brussels sprout and remove any wilted outer leaves.
- Use a sharp knife to slice them thinly or fit your food processor with a slicing blade to shred them quickly.
- Keep the slices uniform for even mixing, and enjoy their crunchy texture in your salad!
This step is essential, as it helps the dressing soak in and gives you that delightful crunch you want in every bite!
Crunchy Brussels Sprout Salad with Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced or shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts (optional)
- 4 oz (115g) goat cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
For the Topping (optional):
- 1 small round of goat cheese (about 1-2 oz) for pan-searing
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil for searing cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to throw together, but let it chill for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve immediately for the best texture and crunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Start by washing the Brussels sprouts. Trim off any outer leaves that look yellow or wilted. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a food processor. You want them nice and shredded to keep the salad crunchy! Place those freshly shredded sprouts in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the Sweetness and Nuts:
Now, toss in the dried cranberries or raisins for a lovely burst of sweetness. If you have nuts on hand, add the toasted pine nuts or walnuts. These will add a delightful crunch to your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing is what ties everything together, so make sure it’s well-mixed!
4. Combine the Salad:
Pour the dressing over your Brussels sprout mixture and give everything a good toss until it’s all evenly coated. This is where the magic happens—everything mingles and becomes delicious!
5. Add Goat Cheese:
Gently fold in the crumbled goat cheese, saving a small round piece for later if you’re planning to sear it. The creamy cheese will melt into the salad beautifully!
6. Optional: Sear the Goat Cheese:
If you want to make it even better, heat some butter or olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the small goat cheese round and sear it for about 1-2 minutes on each side until it’s golden and crispy on the outside but soft inside. This adds a wonderful warm element to your salad!
7. Serve It Up:
Transfer the salad to plates or serve it right from the bowl. Place the warm, seared goat cheese on top as a lovely finishing touch. It looks gorgeous and tastes incredible!
8. Taste Test:
Before diving in, give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a bit more lemon juice if you like. Enjoy your crunchy, fresh, and vibrant Brussels sprout salad!
This salad is perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or even as a main for a vegetarian meal. Full of flavor, texture, and health benefits, it’s a win-win for everyone at the table. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
It’s best to use fresh Brussels sprouts for this salad, as frozen ones can become mushy when thawed. If you only have frozen, thaw them completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before shredding.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the salad may lose some crunch as it sits, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, simply omit the goat cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also replace honey with maple syrup to keep the salad entirely plant-based.
What Are Some Good Additions to This Salad?
If you want to add more flavors or textures, consider incorporating shredded carrots, diced apples, or sliced avocado. Each addition will add a unique twist to the salad!
