If you’re looking for a fresh twist on fall and winter salads, this Brussels sprout salad is exactly what you need to brighten up your dining experience. I stumbled upon this delightful dish at a cozy neighborhood restaurant one chilly evening, and it was love at first bite. Who would have thought that the humble Brussels sprout could be the star of such a vibrant and flavorful salad? This dish combines the crunchiness of shredded Brussels sprouts with the sweet juiciness of apples and the tang of pomegranate seeds. The salty bite of bacon, the richness of pecans, and the creamy texture of feta cheese bring it all together in every mouthful. It’s a dish that’s full of life and colors, making it a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual dinners alike, this salad is not just a side dish, but an experience. Serve it alongside your Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas roast, and watch as even the staunchest sprout critics reach for seconds.
Brussels Sprout Salad Ingredients
To craft this delightful salad, you’ll start with crisp, fresh Brussels sprouts. Pair them with juicy apples for a touch of sweetness, then add crumbled feta cheese and crunchy pecans for texture. The pomegranate arils bring both color and a burst of tanginess, while crispy bacon adds a depth of savory flavor. The dressing is a perfect blend of vinegar and oil, shallots, Dijon mustard, honey, and spices to tie everything together harmoniously.
How Do You Make Brussels Sprouts Salad?
Start by prepping the sprouts: wash, dry, and trim them before slicing thinly to form the salad base. Add diced apples, crumbled feta, pecans, pomegranate seeds, and cooked bacon. For the dressing, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, finely chopped shallots, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a jar, then shake well. Drizzle the dressing over your salad and toss gently to combine everything evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing take on a winter salad.
Tips For The Perfect Salad
For best results, you can prepare various components ahead of time: cook the bacon and store it chilled, slice open your pomegranates, and peel and dice the apples to keep prep straightforward and speedy. If you don’t have red wine vinegar on hand, try substituting it with apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice for an added zest. A block of feta crumbled fresh will yield the best flavor — steer clear from pre-crumbled versions if possible. Consider pairing this salad with festive dishes like a roasted honey-baked ham or a sliced rib-eye steak to create a beautifully balanced meal.
When serving, present this salad in a large, wide bowl for guests to admire its beauty. Consider adding a sprinkle of candied nuts for an extra sweet crunch and balance them with a few delicate microgreens for a gourmet touch. Not only will you enjoy fabulous flavor contrasts, but your table setting will also be elevated with a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes. Whip this up for a family gathering or potluck, and you’re set to impress!
