Oh, let me tell you, there’s just something magical about a fresh salad on Thanksgiving! With all the rich, hearty dishes on the table, a vibrant salad like my Brussels sprout salad is just what you need to balance things out. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and adds that pop of color that makes your holiday spread sing! Trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds.
I remember one Thanksgiving when I decided to bring something different to the table. My family is all about tradition, so I was a bit nervous. But the moment I set this salad down, you could hear the oohs and aahs! The combination of the fresh Brussels sprouts, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy almonds made it a hit. It’s now a staple at our gatherings, and I believe it’s because of that blend of freshness and flavor that gets everyone excited to dig in. So, let’s get to making this delicious salad that’ll surely become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients for Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Ready to gather your ingredients? Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this crunchy and delightful Brussels sprout salad:
- 4 cups Brussels sprouts, shredded
- 1/2 cup almonds, sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to get fresh Brussels sprouts for that amazing crunch! And don’t skimp on the Parmesan; it really takes the salad to the next level. Now that you have everything ready, let’s get to the fun part—making the salad!
How to Prepare Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Alright, let’s dive into the preparation of this scrumptious Brussels sprout salad! It’s super simple and won’t take much time at all—perfect for your Thanksgiving hustle. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a fresh, crunchy salad ready to impress your guests!
Shredding the Brussel Sprouts
First things first, let’s tackle those Brussels sprouts! I like to trim the ends and remove any yellow or wilted leaves. Then, using a sharp knife or a mandoline, slice them thinly. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick; this way, they stay crunchy but are tender enough to eat raw. If you have a food processor with a shredding attachment, that works wonders too! Just be careful not to over-process them into mush. Trust me, the texture is everything!
Mixing the Ingredients
Now that your Brussels sprouts are all shredded and ready, toss them into a large bowl. Next, add in the sliced almonds and dried cranberries. These elements add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that balances the salad beautifully. Give it a gentle stir just to mix everything up a bit before we dress it.
Making the Dressing
Time to whip up that tasty dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. I like to start with the oil and vinegar first and then add the honey to help it blend smoothly. Make sure to taste it as you go—if you want a bit more zing, add a splash more vinegar! The dressing should be tangy yet slightly sweet, with a nice drizzle-able consistency.
Tossing the Salad
Now, pour that beautiful dressing right over your salad mixture. Here’s where the magic happens! Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts, almonds, and cranberries are all coated in that lovely dressing. Make sure you get in there; a good thorough mixing ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving—this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
Serving Tips
When it’s time to serve, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese right on top for that finishing touch. This way, it stays fresh and melty. You can also add extra almonds or cranberries for a pop of color and crunch! I love serving this salad in a pretty bowl to showcase all those vibrant colors. It’s not just a salad; it’s a centerpiece! Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness in this Brussels sprout salad! While I always say it’s best to enjoy food for the flavors and memories it brings, it’s nice to know what’s in our tasty creations too. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delightful salad:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Sugar: 7g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But with all those fresh veggies and wholesome components, you can feel good about serving this salad at your Thanksgiving table! It’s a crunchy, flavorful way to add some vibrant nutrition to your holiday feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Brussels sprout salad isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with benefits that make it a must-have for your Thanksgiving spread! Here are a few reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip this salad up in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with family and friends.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of crunchy Brussels sprouts, sweet cranberries, and nutty almonds creates a delightful harmony of flavors that’s refreshing against heavier holiday dishes.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and fiber, this salad is a healthy addition to your Thanksgiving table, making it easier to balance out the feast.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients in advance and toss the salad together right before serving, saving you time in the kitchen.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix and match the ingredients! Add in your favorite nuts or fruits, or switch up the dressing for a twist that suits your taste.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of this salad will brighten up your table, making it not just a dish, but a beautiful centerpiece!
Trust me, once you try this salad, it’ll become a staple on your holiday table for years to come. It’s just too good to resist!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Brussels sprout salad turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way to help you navigate any challenges:
- Choose Fresh Sprouts: Always opt for fresh, firm Brussels sprouts. Look for ones that are bright green and compact; they’ll give you the best crunch and flavor. If they start to yellow or wilting, it’s time to pass.
- Cut Just Before Serving: To keep your Brussels sprouts looking fresh and vibrant, shred them right before you’re ready to serve. This helps prevent any browning that can happen if they sit too long.
- Use Acid in Your Dressing: The apple cider vinegar in your dressing not only adds flavor but also helps keep the Brussels sprouts from browning. It’s a little trick that goes a long way!
- Don’t Overdress: When tossing the salad, start with a little dressing and add more as needed. You want your sprouts to be coated but not swimming in dressing; too much can make them soggy.
- Let it Sit: Allowing the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just remember to add the Parmesan cheese right before serving to keep it fresh!
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients! Add some chopped apples for extra sweetness or swap in different nuts like walnuts or pecans for a unique twist.
- Store Carefully: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Just keep in mind that it’s best enjoyed fresh—so try to finish it within a day or two!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a Brussels sprout salad pro in no time! Enjoy the process, and I promise this salad will be a star of your Thanksgiving feast!
Variations on Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
If you’re looking to switch things up and make this Brussels sprout salad your own, I’ve got some fantastic variation ideas for you! These tweaks can keep the flavors fresh and exciting, and they’re super easy to implement. Let’s dive in!
- Nutty Twist: Swap out the sliced almonds for other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings its own unique flavor and crunch!
- Fruit Fusion: Add some diced apples or pears for a sweet, juicy contrast. Dried fruits like apricots or figs can also work wonders if you want to keep that chewy texture!
- Creamy Dressing: Instead of the olive oil and vinegar dressing, try a creamy dressing like a yogurt-based ranch or a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It adds a whole new dimension to the salad!
- Cheese Options: While Parmesan is delicious, feel free to experiment with crumbled feta, goat cheese, or even blue cheese for a bold flavor shift.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or even basil for a fragrant lift. They brighten the salad and add layers of flavor!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. It’s a fun way to spice things up!
- Grains Galore: For a heartier salad, consider adding cooked quinoa, farro, or even wild rice. This not only enhances the texture but adds nutritional value too!
Feel free to mix and match these variations based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. The beauty of this salad is its versatility! You can create a new flavor profile every time you make it, keeping your Thanksgiving gatherings exciting and delicious. Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious Brussels sprout salad, and now you’re wondering how to keep those leftovers fresh? No worries, I’ve got you covered! This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have some extra, here’s how to store it properly:
- Refrigerate Immediately: Place any leftovers in an airtight container as soon as possible. This helps maintain the crispness of the Brussels sprouts and prevents them from wilting.
- Consume Within 1-2 Days: For the best flavor and texture, try to enjoy the salad within a day or two. The longer it sits, the more the dressing can soften the sprouts.
- Keep Toppings Separate: If you know you’ll have leftovers, store the Parmesan cheese and any other toppings separately. This way, they stay fresh and crunchy until you’re ready to dig in!
- No Reheating Needed: This salad is meant to be served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. In fact, reheating could make the sprouts mushy, and we definitely don’t want that!
- Adjust the Dressing: If you find the salad has soaked up the dressing after sitting, feel free to add a splash more olive oil or vinegar when you’re ready to enjoy it again. Just give it a good toss to recoat everything!
Following these storage tips will keep your Brussels sprout salad tasting fresh for your next meal. It’s a great way to savor those vibrant flavors a little longer! Enjoy every last crunchy bite!
What to Serve with Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
When it comes to Thanksgiving, it’s all about the spread! You want dishes that complement each other and create a delightful balance on your table. My Brussels sprout salad is a fantastic addition, but let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a truly memorable feast. Here are some of my favorite pairings that’ll elevate your Thanksgiving experience!
- Roast Turkey: The classic centerpiece! Juicy, herb-seasoned turkey pairs beautifully with the crunch and freshness of the salad. Plus, those drippings make for an amazing gravy!
- Stuffing: A flavorful stuffing, whether it’s traditional bread-based or a wild rice mix, adds a cozy, hearty element that complements the lightness of the salad.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a must-have on any Thanksgiving table. They provide that comforting texture that contrasts nicely with the salad’s crunch.
- Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce enhances the cranberries in your salad and adds a lovely pop of color and flavor to your plate.
- Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish adds a warm, creamy aspect that balances out the freshness of the salad. Plus, who can resist those crispy onions on top?
- Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of a baked sweet potato casserole, especially if topped with marshmallows or pecans, provides a delightful contrast to the salad’s savory crunch.
- Pumpkin Pie: And of course, for dessert, you can’t go wrong with a slice of rich pumpkin pie! It’s the perfect sweet ending after all those savory dishes.
Feel free to mix and match these dishes based on your family’s traditions and tastes. The key is to create a table that offers a variety of textures and flavors, and my Brussels sprout salad fits right in, adding that refreshing touch. Happy feasting!
Print
Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and crunchy brussel sprout salad perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 4 cups brussel sprouts, shredded
- 1/2 cup almonds, sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Shred the brussel sprouts and place them in a large bowl.
- Add the sliced almonds and dried cranberries.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving for better flavor.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey for a vegan option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Raw
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: brussel sprout salad thanksgiving
