Okay, let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to eat Brussels sprouts – shaved into this bright, crunchy salad that’ll make even the biggest sprout skeptics come back for seconds. I first threw this shaved Brussels sprout apple salad together during a hectic weeknight when I needed something fast, fresh, and packed with flavor. The crisp sprouts, sweet-tart apple slices, and toasty walnuts create this perfect texture party in every bite. And that tangy-sweet dressing? Just wait until you try it – it’s the kind of simple magic that makes people ask, “What is that?” at potlucks. Trust me, this isn’t your grandma’s mushy boiled Brussels situation. It’s the salad I crave when I want something satisfying but still light, with colors that pop on the plate like confetti. Perfect for when you need a no-cook win that feels special but couldn’t be easier.
Why You’ll Love This Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad
This salad isn’t just another bowl of greens – it’s the kind of dish that makes healthy eating feel like a treat. Here’s why it’s become my go-to:
- Quick as can be: 15 minutes from chopping to serving – perfect for busy nights
- No cooking required: Just toss and go (your stove gets the night off)
- Flavor fireworks: Sweet apples, peppery sprouts, and that tangy dressing play together so nicely
- Stays crunchy for days: Unlike wimpy lettuce that wilts, those shaved sprouts keep their texture
- Adaptable superstar: Swap in what you’ve got – it’s hard to mess this one up
Trust me, once you try that crisp-tender bite with the sweet-and-sour dressing, you’ll be hooked just like I was.
Ingredients for Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad
You’ll need just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients to make this salad sing. Here’s what to grab:
- 2 cups shaved Brussels sprouts (trust me, the shaving makes all the difference)
- 1 medium apple, thinly sliced (I love Honeycrisp for their sweetness and crunch)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (toasted if you’re feeling fancy)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
That’s it! Simple, fresh, and ready to shine.
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad
Okay, let’s get to the fun part – putting this gorgeous salad together! I promise it’s easier than folding a fitted sheet (why are those things so impossible?). Here’s exactly how I make it, with all my little tricks for maximum flavor and crunch.
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
First, grab those Brussels sprouts – we’re going to give them a spa treatment! I use my mandoline (carefully, with the guard!) to shave them into feathery ribbons. No mandoline? No problem! Just slice them super thin with a sharp knife. Toss them in a big bowl with your apple slices (I leave the skin on for color and nutrients).
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
Now for the magic potion! In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until it’s all friendly and emulsified. Taste it – you want that perfect balance where it makes your tongue do a little happy dance between sweet and tangy.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Pour that glorious dressing over your sprouts and apples, then toss like you’re mixing confetti at a party – get everything nicely coated. Sprinkle those walnuts on top for the grand finale. Serve it right away for maximum crunch, or let it sit 10 minutes if you prefer slightly softer sprouts (no judgment here!).
Tips for the Best Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad
Here are my tried-and-true tricks to make this salad absolutely shine:
- Mandoline magic: Use one for perfectly even shaved sprouts – just watch those fingers!
- Toast those nuts: A quick toast brings out the walnuts’ flavor beautifully
- Feta fan? Crumble some on top for a salty tang that plays so nice with the sweet apples
- Leftovers love: Store in the fridge up to 2 days – the sprouts stay surprisingly crisp
- Dress smart: Add dressing just before serving to keep everything crunchy
Little touches make this simple salad feel extra special every time.
Variations for Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad
This salad is like a blank canvas – so easy to tweak based on what you’ve got or what you’re craving! Swap walnuts for pecans or even pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a pop of sweetness and color. Feeling fancy? A sprinkle of blue cheese or goat cheese takes it to a whole new level. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions for Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad
This lively salad plays well with others! I love it as a bright side to grilled chicken or pork chops, or piled high on a lunch plate with crusty bread and sharp cheddar. For holiday meals, it’s the perfect fresh contrast to rich casseroles – my family always fights over the last serving!
Storage and Reheating
Here’s the beautiful thing about this salad – it actually gets better as it sits! Just pop any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. No reheating needed – those shaved sprouts keep their delightful crunch cold. If the walnuts soften, just sprinkle fresh ones on when you’re ready to serve again.
Nutritional Information
Just a quick heads up – these numbers are estimates since your actual ingredients might vary slightly. But here’s the scoop on what you’re getting in each generous serving of this vibrant salad:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 12g (mostly the good-for-you unsaturated kind)
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 4g (thanks to those mighty Brussels sprouts!)
- Protein: 3g
Not too shabby for a salad that tastes this indulgent, right? The natural sugars from the apple and honey keep it balanced without any refined sugar overload.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different vinegar? Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar gives that perfect tangy-sweet balance, white wine vinegar or even lemon juice work beautifully in a pinch. Just start with less and adjust to taste – some vinegars pack more punch!
How do I shave Brussels sprouts without a mandoline? No fancy tools needed! Just trim the stem end, then use a sharp knife to slice them as thin as possible. Pro tip: Angle your knife slightly to get those pretty, delicate ribbons.
Will regular lettuce work instead? You could, but you’d miss out on that signature crunch! Brussels sprouts hold up way better. If you must substitute, try kale – massage it first to soften those tough fibers.
Can I make this ahead? Yes! The dressing actually helps soften the sprouts nicely. Mix everything except the walnuts up to 4 hours before serving – add those crunchy nuts right before eating.
Share Your Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad
I’d love to hear how your salad turns out! Tag me in your creations or leave a comment below – what fun twists did you add? This recipe’s all about making it your own.
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15-Minute Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad You’ll Crave
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and crunchy salad with shaved Brussels sprouts, crisp apples, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
- 1 medium apple, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shaved Brussels sprouts and sliced apple.
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top before serving.
Notes
- Use a mandoline for even shaved Brussels sprouts.
- Add crumbled feta for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
