Get ready to revolutionize your salad game with a mouthwatering dish that combines the crispy, caramelized goodness of Brussels sprouts with the sweet and tart crunch of fresh apples. This isn't just another boring salad – it's a flavor explosion that will make you fall in love with vegetables all over again! Perfect for those looking to impress at dinner parties or simply elevate their weeknight meal, this Tangy Brussels Sprout Apple Salad is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- Apple, cored and diced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Walnuts, chopped
- Dried cranberries
- Olive oil
- Apple cider vinegar
- Honey
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming off the stem ends and carefully halving each sprout lengthwise, ensuring even cooking and attractive presentation.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, place the Brussels sprouts cut-side down in a single layer to achieve a golden-brown caramelization.
- Cook the Brussels sprouts for approximately 5-7 minutes without stirring, allowing them to develop a rich, crispy exterior. Gently flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender and lightly charred.
- While the Brussels sprouts are cooking, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl.
- Remove the Brussels sprouts from heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly for 5 minutes.
- Add the diced apple, thinly sliced red onion, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries to the Brussels sprouts.
- Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the salad immediately at room temperature, garnishing with extra chopped walnuts or a drizzle of honey if desired.
Tips
- Caramelization is Key: The secret to amazing Brussels sprouts is achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior. Use a hot skillet and resist the urge to stir too quickly – let them develop a beautiful crispy crust.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select firm Brussels sprouts and a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Vinaigrette Prep Trick: Make the dressing ahead of time and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra gourmet touch, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: While best served fresh, you can prep the components separately and combine just before serving to maintain the salad's crisp texture. Pro Tip: The key to this recipe is balancing the caramelized Brussels sprouts with the bright, tangy vinaigrette – don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
