Nutritious, crunchy, and irresistibly flavorful, this Brussels sprout salad is a crowd pleaser for good reason. Unlike roasted sprouts, this raw salad highlights the vegetable’s crisp texture and pairs well with fresh fruits, nuts, cheeses, and tangy dressings. Whether you want a refreshing meal, a holiday side, or a nutrient rich salad you can prep ahead, this is recipe is all you need!
Shaved Brussels sprout salad is one of the most vibrant and satisfying ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. By slicing Brussels sprouts thinly, they transform from a dense winter vegetable into delicate ribbons that absorb dressing beautifully while maintaining a pleasant crunch.
Unlike traditional leafy salads that wilt quickly, shaved Brussels sprout salads stay crisp for hours, making them perfect for entertaining, meal prep, and holiday tables. This salad is also popular on restaurant menus because it delivers bold flavor, texture, and nutritional value all in one dish.
What Is Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad?
Shaved Brussels sprout salad is a raw vegetable salad made from very thinly sliced Brussels sprouts, tossed with a bright vinaigrette and often nuts, cheese, dried fruit, or citrus.
Shaving the sprouts changes their texture dramatically. Instead of thick cabbage like leaves, they become light, delicate strands that soak up dressing while still keeping a crisp bite.
Because of this texture, shaved Brussels sprouts act as a heartier alternative to lettuce, making the salad both filling and flavorful.
Unlike traditional cooked versions, shaved Brussels sprouts retain a fresh, earthy crunch while being easier to chew and digest.
Why You’ll Love This Salad Recipe
- It has incredible texture! Thinly shaved sprouts stay crunchy while absorbing dressing.
- It’s full of flavor. Brussels sprouts have a naturally nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with bright, tangy dressings.
- It holds up well for days! Unlike delicate greens, this salad stays fresh for hours without wilting.
- It’s nutritious. Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- It’s endlessly customizable. You can add fruit, nuts, cheese, grains, or protein to create many variations.
- Quick to prepare so it’s perfect for weeknights or last minute BBQ sides.
- Great for lunch salad, potluck side, holiday addition, or healthy dinner complement.
Ingredients You Need For Brussel Sprout Salad
- Brussels Sprouts. Fresh Brussels sprouts are the foundation of the salad. Look for sprouts that are bright green, firm and compact and tightly layered. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender.
- Dressing: A bright vinaigrette balances the earthy flavor of the sprouts. Try our Maple Vinaigrette for an alternative. Today’s dressing included Dijon mustard, olive oil, Apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), some honey or maple syrup, and seasoning.
- Cheese. Cheese adds richness and saltiness.We used Parmesan, but you can use Pecorino, Feta or Goat cheese
- Nuts or Seeds. They are crunchy elements that provide contrast. Great options include almonds, walnuts, pecans or pumpkin seeds. Toasting them enhances flavor. Try our Candied Walnuts
- Sweet Elements. A touch of sweetness balances the slightly bitter flavor of Brussels sprouts. Popular additions are dried cranberries, apples or pears, and pomegranate seeds.
- Herbs. Optional to brighten the salad, add in either parsley, chives, dill or mint
- Aromatics. We love shallots here but you can use garlic as well.
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
Step 1: Shave the Sprouts
Use a mandoline, food processor slicing blade, or sharp knife to thinly slice the sprouts into ribbons. Thinner slices create the ideal chew and make the salad easier to digest.
Step 2: Prep Other Produce
Slice apples or other fruit, toast nuts if using, and prep any dried fruit or cheese.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
Add all the salad dressings in a mason jar. Close the lid or seal well, alternatively you can use a whisk. Shake the container or whisk together until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
Step 4: Toss and Combine
Add shaved sprouts, apples, cranberries, shallots all to a bowl. Pour the dressing evenly over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Add with the Crunchy Topping & Parmesan
A layer of Candied Walnuts or nuts is added over the dressed salad so it remains crunchy.
Final step is to grate PLENTY of Parmesan cheese over the salad! Let the salad chill for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld. You can chill the salad in the fridge for 20 minutes or so.
Pro Tips for Brussel Sprout Salad
- Slice the sprouts very thin. Thin slices improve texture and allow the dressing to coat evenly.
- Make sure to shave the sprouts uniformly. even shreds absorb dressing better and make for a consistent texture. Tools like mandolines or food processors help.
- Massage the sprouts lightly. Tossing them with dressing softens their texture.
- Balance flavors. Combine acidity, sweetness, and salt for the best flavor balance.
- Toast nuts before adding. Toasting enhances their aroma and crunch. Try these Candied Walnuts made in the stovetop for 5 minutes!
- Let the salad rest. A short resting time allows flavors to meld.
Flavor Variations
- Lemon Parmesan Brussels Sprout Salad: A simple version with lemon, olive oil, and shaved Parmesan.
- Apple Brussels Sprout Salad: A blend of Apple Salad and Brussel Sprout salad!
- Mediterranean Brussels Sprout Salad: Feta, olives, and herbs add Mediterranean flavor.
- Holiday Brussels Sprout Salad: Pomegranate seeds, toasted pecans, and citrus make it festive.
- Maple Vinaigrette Variation: A fall favorite with sweet notes.
Is Brussels sprout salad healthy?
Yes. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants, offering a nutritious alternative to heavier side dishes.
Should I massage shaved Brussels sprouts?
Massaging can break down cell walls, making them more tender and reducing bitterness. Lightly tossing them with dressing softens the texture, but full massaging like kale is usually unnecessary.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Shave the sprouts and store them separately. Add dressing 20 minutes right before serving to maintain crunch.
What dressings work best?
Light vinaigrettes (lemon, cider vinegar) or creamy dressings (maple Dijon) both pair beautifully.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Tossed salad is best consumed within 2-3 days to retain texture and freshness.
Can I make it vegan or gluten‑free?
Yes! Simply use vegan parmesan cheese, or skip it all together.
What toppings add the best texture?
Toasted nuts, seeds, fruit, and shaved hard cheeses all add dynamic texture and flavor.
Can I use pre shaved sprouts?
Yes ! It’s a great short cut to buy pre shaved sprouts. You can save prep time without compromising flavor.
What to Serve With Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
- Hot Honey Chicken or Chicken Sliders
- Salmon or tuna steaks
- Tacos and wraps
- Holiday spread
Why Is My Brussels Sprout Salad Bitter?
Bitterness can occur if sprouts are older or not balanced with other flavors. To fix it, add sweetness or acidity such as lemon juice, honey or fruit like apples or cranberries. We have a well rounded salad here!
Why Is My Salad Too Tough?
Thick slices can make the salad hard to chew. To fix this make sure to slice the sprouts thinner or massage them gently with dressing.
Why Is My Salad Too Dry?
If the salad feels dry, it likely needs more dressing. To fix this, add a small splash of olive oil or lemon juice and toss again.
Why Does My Salad Taste Flat?
Raw vegetables need enough seasoning. To fix this make sure to add enough dressing!
Why Did My Salad Become Soggy?
Too much dressing can soften the sprouts excessively. To fix this, add dressing gradually and toss until just coated.
Storage Tips
Shaved Brussels sprout salad stores better than most leafy salads. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
If preparing ahead, keep toppings separate and add nuts just before serving to keep them crunchy
Can you eat Brussels sprouts raw in salad?
Yes. Raw Brussels sprouts are perfectly safe to eat and become tender when thinly sliced and tossed with dressing.
How do you shave Brussels sprouts for salad?
Use a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor slicing blade to cut them into very thin slices.
What proteins pair well with this salad?
Grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas pair beautifully with Brussels sprout saladGrate carrots, core and slice apples, toast nuts — prep everything before dressing for smoother assembly.
Can I freeze shaved Brussels sprout salad?
Not recommended at all to freeze this salad because raw sprouts and dressing don’t freeze well. Best served fresh or chilled for a few days.
Crunchy Salads
Broccoli Slaw
Snap Pea Salad
Apple Salad
Cauliflower Salad
Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
Creamy Cucumber Salad
Taco Salad
Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
Brussel Sprout Salad
- 5-6 cups Brussel Sprouts shaved
- 1 apple cut thinly
- 1 shallot minced
- 1/3 cup cranberries
- 1/2 cup Candied walnuts and pistachios combined
- 1 Avocado thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese
Salad Dressing
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 Tablespoons Maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper each
Instructions
-
Use a mandoline, food processor slicing blade, or sharp knife to thinly slice the sprouts into ribbons. Thinner slices create the ideal chew and make the salad easier to digest.
-
Slice apples or other fruit, toast nuts if using, and prep any dried fruit or cheese.
-
Add all the salad dressings in a mason jar. Close the lid or seal well, alternatively you can use a whisk. Shake the container or whisk together until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
-
Add shaved sprouts, apples, cranberries, shallots all to a bowl. Pour the dressing evenly over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
-
A layer of Candied Walnuts or nuts is added over the dressed salad so it remains crunchy.
-
Final step is to grate PLENTY of Parmesan cheese over the salad! Let the salad chill for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld. You can chill the salad in the fridge for 20 minutes or so.
Recipe Notes
Pro Tips for Brussel Sprout Salad
- Slice the sprouts very thin. Thin slices improve texture and allow the dressing to coat evenly.
- Make sure to shave the sprouts uniformly. even shreds absorb dressing better and make for a consistent texture. Tools like mandolines or food processors help.
- Massage the sprouts lightly. Tossing them with dressing softens their texture.
- Balance flavors. Combine acidity, sweetness, and salt for the best flavor balance.
- Toast nuts before adding. Toasting enhances their aroma and crunch. Try these Candied Walnuts made in the stovetop for 5 minutes!
- Let the salad rest. A short resting time allows flavors to meld.
Flavor Variations
- Lemon Parmesan Brussels Sprout Salad: A simple version with lemon, olive oil, and shaved Parmesan.
- Apple Brussels Sprout Salad: A blend of Apple Salad and Brussel Sprout salad!
- Mediterranean Brussels Sprout Salad: Feta, olives, and herbs add Mediterranean flavor.
- Holiday Brussels Sprout Salad: Pomegranate seeds, toasted pecans, and citrus make it festive.
- Maple Vinaigrette Variation: A fall favorite with sweet notes.
Is Brussels sprout salad healthy?
Yes. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants, offering a nutritious alternative to heavier side dishes.
Should I massage shaved Brussels sprouts?
Massaging can break down cell walls, making them more tender and reducing bitterness. Lightly tossing them with dressing softens the texture, but full massaging like kale is usually unnecessary.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Shave the sprouts and store them separately. Add dressing 20 minutes right before serving to maintain crunch.
What dressings work best?
Light vinaigrettes (lemon, cider vinegar) or creamy dressings (maple Dijon) both pair beautifully.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Tossed salad is best consumed within 2-3 days to retain texture and freshness.
Can I make it vegan or gluten‑free?
Yes! Simply use vegan parmesan cheese, or skip it all together.
What toppings add the best texture?
Toasted nuts, seeds, fruit, and shaved hard cheeses all add dynamic texture and flavor.
Can I use pre shaved sprouts?
Yes ! It's a great short cut to buy pre shaved sprouts. You can save prep time without compromising flavor.
What to Serve With Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
- Hot Honey Chicken or Chicken Sliders
- Salmon or tuna steaks
- Tacos and wraps
- Holiday spread
Why Is My Brussels Sprout Salad Bitter?
Bitterness can occur if sprouts are older or not balanced with other flavors. To fix it, add sweetness or acidity such as lemon juice, honey or fruit like apples or cranberries. We have a well rounded salad here!
Why Is My Salad Too Tough?
Thick slices can make the salad hard to chew. To fix this make sure to slice the sprouts thinner or massage them gently with dressing.
Why Is My Salad Too Dry?
If the salad feels dry, it likely needs more dressing. To fix this, add a small splash of olive oil or lemon juice and toss again.
Why Does My Salad Taste Flat?
Raw vegetables need enough seasoning. To fix this make sure to add enough dressing!
Why Did My Salad Become Soggy?
Too much dressing can soften the sprouts excessively. To fix this, add dressing gradually and toss until just coated.
Storage Tips
Shaved Brussels sprout salad stores better than most leafy salads. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
If preparing ahead, keep toppings separate and add nuts just before serving to keep them crunchy
Can you eat Brussels sprouts raw in salad?
Yes. Raw Brussels sprouts are perfectly safe to eat and become tender when thinly sliced and tossed with dressing.
How do you shave Brussels sprouts for salad?
Use a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor slicing blade to cut them into very thin slices.
What proteins pair well with this salad?
Grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas pair beautifully with Brussels sprout saladGrate carrots, core and slice apples, toast nuts — prep everything before dressing for smoother assembly.
Can I freeze shaved Brussels sprout salad?
Not recommended at all to freeze this salad because raw sprouts and dressing don’t freeze well. Best served fresh or chilled for a few days.
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