Embrace the vibrant flavors of fall and winter with this exquisite Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad. Bursting with freshness, this recipe masterfully combines the crisp bite of thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with the tart sweetness of dried cranberries, the rich creaminess of goat cheese, and the satisfying crunch of candied pecans. Drizzled with a zesty maple vinaigrette, it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that brightens any meal.

Whether you’re planning a festive holiday feast like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, or simply seeking an elegant yet effortless side dish for a weeknight meal, this salad is an absolute winner. It’s special enough to impress your guests, yet straightforward enough for even the busiest home cooks. Prepare to fall in love with a salad that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat!

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad has become an instant favorite in our home. It graced our Thanksgiving table, providing a refreshing counterpoint to richer dishes, and is already slated to be a highlight alongside our Slow Roasted Prime Rib for Christmas dinner. The delightful combination of chewy dried cranberries, sweet candied pecans, and tangy, creamy goat cheese transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a truly spectacular winter salad. It’s a dish that not only tastes incredible but also adds a stunning visual appeal to your holiday spread.

Why This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Will Be Your New Favorite

Beyond its undeniable deliciousness, this salad offers numerous advantages that make it a must-have in your recipe collection:

• Fresh and Flavorful: The raw Brussels sprouts offer a unique texture and robust flavor that stands out.
• Perfect for Holidays: Its festive colors and sophisticated taste make it ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other special occasions.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet appearance, the preparation is incredibly simple, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Nutrient-Rich: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and fiber, making this a healthy addition to any meal.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences and ingredient availability.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Certain components can be prepped in advance, saving you time on the day of serving.

Mastering the Art of Shaving Brussels Sprouts

The key to an outstanding raw Brussels sprouts salad lies in achieving super-thin slices. “Shaved” Brussels sprouts are simply whole sprouts that have been cut into delicate, ribbon-like pieces. This thin cut softens their texture, mellows their flavor, and makes them wonderfully palatable for a raw salad. Here are three effective methods to achieve perfectly shaved Brussels sprouts:

1. With a Sharp Knife: This method requires a bit of patience and a very sharp chef’s knife. First, ensure your Brussels sprouts are thoroughly washed, and any discolored or damaged outer leaves are removed. Trim off the tough stem end. Then, place the sprout flat on your cutting board and slice it as thinly as possible from one end to the other. For best results, work in small batches and take your time to maintain uniform thinness.
2. Using a Mandoline Slicer: For speed and precision, a mandoline slicer is an invaluable tool. After washing and trimming your sprouts, carefully run them across the mandoline blade set to its thinnest setting. Always use the safety guard to protect your fingers. This method yields consistently thin slices with minimal effort.
3. With a Food Processor: If you’re preparing a large batch of salad, a food processor with a slicing attachment is your fastest option. Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts as usual. Fit your food processor with the appropriate slicing disc, then feed the sprouts through the chute. The machine will quickly transform them into finely shaved pieces, perfect for your salad.

Can You Eat Raw Brussels Sprouts? Absolutely!

One of the most common questions regarding this salad is about eating Brussels sprouts raw. And the answer is a resounding yes! When thinly shaved, raw Brussels sprouts offer a delightful texture and a milder, slightly peppery flavor profile, reminiscent of crisp cabbage. They retain a satisfying crunch, which makes them an excellent base for a hearty salad that won’t wilt easily. Far from their sometimes-maligned cooked counterparts, raw Brussels sprouts are refreshingly delicious and provide a wealth of nutrients.

If you typically prefer your Brussels sprouts cooked, this recipe might just change your mind about them! However, if you’re a fan of cooked Brussels sprouts and looking for more options, be sure to try my equally delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe.

Preparing Your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad in Advance

Planning ahead for a busy holiday or weeknight? While I generally recommend assembling the entire salad just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and crispness, several components of this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad can be prepared ahead of time to streamline your cooking process.

• Shave the Brussels Sprouts: The Brussels sprouts can be thinly shredded up to two days in advance. Once shaved, store them in an airtight zip-top bag or container in the refrigerator. This allows them to stay fresh and crunchy until you’re ready to mix the salad.
• Prepare the Dressing: The maple vinaigrette can also be made up to two days ahead of time. Whisk all the dressing ingredients together and store it in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. Before using, give it a good whisk or shake to re-emulsify the ingredients.
• Candied Pecans: If you’re making your own candied pecans, these can be prepared several days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

By prepping these elements beforehand, you can drastically reduce your last-minute kitchen time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your loved ones or simply relax after a long day.

Enhance Your Meal with More Delicious Salad Recipes

Looking to diversify your salad repertoire? Don’t miss these other fantastic salad recipes that are perfect for any season:

• My vibrant Autumn Harvest Salad with Pomegranates, a colorful and flavorful addition to any fall meal.
• The bright and refreshing Citrus Kale Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette, offering a burst of sunshine during colder months.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe

By
Meghan McMorrow | Fox and Briar

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Prep Time:
20 minutes

Servings:
4 Servings

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Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs brussels sprouts
• 4 ounces goat cheese
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup candied pecans

Dressing

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• 1 small garlic clove finely minced

Instructions

1. Whisk together all ingredients for the dressing in a small bowl. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Wash them thoroughly, remove any damaged or discolored outer leaves, and trim off the tough stem ends. Using a sharp knife, mandoline slicer, or the slicing attachment of a food processor, thinly shave the Brussels sprouts into fine ribbons.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts with the prepared dressing. Toss gently until the sprouts are evenly coated.
4. Transfer the dressed Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Scatter the dried cranberries, candied pecans, and crumbled goat cheese generously over the top. Serve immediately for best crispness.

Video Tutorial

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1serving |
Calories: 308kcal |
Carbohydrates: 27g |
Protein: 12g |
Fat: 19g |
Saturated Fat: 6g |
Cholesterol: 13mg |
Sodium: 349mg |
Potassium: 684mg |
Fiber: 8g |
Sugar: 13g |
Vitamin A: 1575IU |
Vitamin C: 148mg |
Calcium: 126mg |
Iron: 3mg

Please note: Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Additional Information

Course: Salads, Sides

Cuisine: American

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Variations to Customize Your Salad

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy substitutions and additions to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

• Different Nuts: Instead of candied pecans, try toasted walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
• Alternative Cheeses: If goat cheese isn’t your preference, crumbled feta cheese, blue cheese, or even shaved Parmesan would also be delightful.
• Add Fruit: Fresh apple slices (Granny Smith for tartness), pear slices, or even segments of oranges can add another layer of sweetness and freshness.
• Extra Veggies: Thinly sliced red onion, bell peppers, or even grated carrots can boost the vegetable content and color.
• Herbaceous Touch: Fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives can add a fragrant finish.
• Dress it Up: Experiment with other vinaigrettes if you prefer, such as a balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon-tahini dressing for a creamier option.

Tips for the Best Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Achieving the perfect Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is simple with a few key tips:

• Thinness is Key: The thinner you shave your Brussels sprouts, the more tender and less bitter they will be when raw. This is crucial for texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overdress: Add the dressing gradually and toss well to ensure every sprout is lightly coated without making the salad soggy. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Chill Before Serving: A short chill in the refrigerator (about 15-30 minutes) after dressing can help the flavors meld beautifully and enhance the crispness of the sprouts.
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, firm Brussels sprouts and high-quality goat cheese and pecans for the best flavor outcome.
• Customize to Taste: Adjust the amount of cranberries, pecans, or goat cheese to your personal preference. Love goat cheese? Add more! Prefer less sweetness? Reduce the cranberries.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Salad for Any Occasion

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with cranberries and goat cheese is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and effortless elegance. Its crisp texture, sweet and tangy notes, and rich, creamy elements make it a standout addition to any meal, especially during the festive fall and winter seasons. Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday gathering or simply looking to elevate a weeknight dinner, this salad promises to deliver a memorable culinary experience.

Give this recipe a try and discover how delightfully versatile and delicious raw Brussels sprouts can be. It’s a healthy, beautiful, and utterly delicious way to incorporate more wholesome vegetables into your diet. Enjoy the process of creating this fantastic salad, and savor every fresh bite!

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