Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a flavor explosion that will make you forget everything you thought you knew about Brussels sprouts! This Apple Walnut Brussels Sprout Salad is about to become your new obsession - a perfect blend of crisp, crunchy, and tangy that will transform your meal from boring to extraordinary in just 15 minutes. Get ready to fall in love with a salad that's so delicious, you'll be craving it even when you're not on a diet!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the Brussels sprouts. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the ends and remove any outer leaves that may be wilted. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the Brussels sprouts into thin ribbons or shreds.
- Next, prepare the apple. Choose a crisp variety such as a Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. Core the apple and slice it thinly, leaving the skin on for added texture and nutrition.
- Chop the walnuts into smaller pieces. If you prefer a toasted flavor, you can toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Allow them to cool before adding to the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced Brussels sprouts, apple slices, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss again until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps to soften the Brussels sprouts slightly.
- Before serving, give the salad one final toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the salad fresh, garnished with additional walnuts or cranberries if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select crisp Brussels sprouts and a firm, tart apple like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor.
- Slice Thinly: Use a sharp knife to create thin, uniform ribbons of Brussels sprouts to ensure even dressing distribution and a delicate texture.
- Toast Your Walnuts: Take an extra 3-5 minutes to toast the walnuts. This simple step will dramatically enhance their flavor and add a rich, nutty dimension to your salad.
- Let It Rest: Allow the salad to sit for 5 minutes after dressing. This helps the flavors meld and slightly softens the Brussels sprouts.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to experiment with the olive oil and balsamic vinegar ratio to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve Fresh: This salad is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to maintain its crisp texture and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 200kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
