Brussels Sprout Salad with Cranberries and Parmesan

Introduction

When I first made Brussels Sprout Salad with Cranberries and Parmesan, I wasn’t sure if my family would embrace the crunchy, raw Brussels sprouts. However, as soon as they tasted it, the bright, fresh flavors won everyone over. The combination of sweet dried cranberries, savory Parmesan cheese, and the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts turned out to be a surprisingly perfect balance. It’s the type of salad that feels indulgent, thanks to the rich Parmesan, yet light enough to complement any heavy main dish. Since then, this salad has become a go-to in my house, especially for holiday meals like Thanksgiving, where its crispness and bright colors stand out on the table. Everyone raves about how refreshing it is, and it’s so simple to prepare that I make it for weeknight dinners as well as special occasions. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, this Brussels sprout salad never disappoints!

Why You’ll Love This Brussels Sprout Salad with Cranberries and Parmesan

Brussels Sprout Salad with Cranberries and Parmesan is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The shredded Brussels sprouts provide a satisfying crunch, while the dried cranberries bring a burst of sweetness. The shaved Parmesan adds a creamy, savory richness that elevates the salad to the next level. This dish is light but still satisfying, making it a great side to balance out heavier dishes at holiday meals. The tangy lemon juice and olive oil dressing tie everything together, while a pinch of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors.

One of the things I love most about this salad is how easy it is to make. It comes together in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients, making it a great option when you’re short on time but still want something fresh and vibrant. It’s also highly customizable: you can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or toss in some roasted squash or apples for added texture and flavor. This versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser that will fit in at nearly any meal, from casual dinners to more formal holiday gatherings.

In addition to being quick and flavorful, this salad is also packed with nutrients. Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, making this dish not only tasty but healthy. The cranberries add a touch of sweetness and antioxidants, while the Parmesan provides a dose of calcium and protein. It’s the perfect way to get in some veggies while indulging in something delicious!

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, shredded
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup shaved Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad Base:
   Start by trimming and shredding the Brussels sprouts. You can do this with a sharp knife or a food processor for a quicker result. Once the Brussels sprouts are shredded, place them in a large bowl. Add the dried cranberries and shaved Parmesan to the bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice until the dressing is emulsified. The lemon juice adds a fresh tang to balance out the richness of the Parmesan and the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts.
3. Season and Toss:
   Drizzle the olive oil and lemon dressing over the salad. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, then toss everything together. Make sure the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with the dressing and that the cranberries and Parmesan are well distributed.
4. Serve:
   You can serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate it for up to an hour to let the flavors meld. If you choose to refrigerate it, the Brussels sprouts will soften slightly, making the salad even more flavorful. Serve it as a side dish or a light main course, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories: 160 kcal
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

How to Serve

• As a Thanksgiving side: This salad is a great way to add some fresh, light flavors to your Thanksgiving table. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, stuffing, and mashed potatoes.
• As a light lunch: Serve it as a light main course with a slice of crusty bread or alongside a cup of soup.
• As a side for dinner: This salad pairs well with many dinner options, including grilled chicken, salmon, or roasted vegetables.
• For meal prep: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day, making it a great option for easy lunches throughout the week.
• With additional toppings: Add roasted nuts, seeds, or slices of apple for a seasonal twist. You could also top it with a hard-boiled egg for extra protein.

Additional Tips

1. Use a food processor: If you want to save time, use a food processor to shred the Brussels sprouts quickly and evenly.
2. Make it sweeter: If you prefer a sweeter salad, toss in some orange segments, pomegranate seeds, or even a drizzle of honey to balance the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts.
3. Add a crunchy element: For extra texture, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top of the salad before serving. Walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds work well.
4. Roast the Brussels sprouts: If you’re not a fan of raw Brussels sprouts, you can roast them for a slightly different flavor. Toss the shredded Brussels sprouts with olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes.
5. Adjust the dressing: If you like a creamier dressing, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the olive oil and lemon juice mixture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. Just toss the Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and Parmesan together, and store them in the refrigerator. Add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.
2. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
   If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   While dried cranberries are typically used for their sweetness and chewy texture, you can use fresh cranberries if you prefer. Just be aware that fresh cranberries are more tart, so you may want to add a bit more sweetener to the dressing.
4. Can I use a different type of oil?
   Yes, you can use any neutral oil, such as avocado oil, sunflower oil, or even walnut oil, if you prefer a more distinct flavor.
5. Is this salad gluten-free?
   Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
6. Can I make this salad vegan?
   Yes, simply replace the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
7. How long does this salad last?
   This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The Brussels sprouts may soften slightly, but the salad will still be delicious.
8. Can I add protein to this salad?
   Absolutely! To make this salad more filling, add roasted chicken, grilled shrimp, or a soft-boiled egg. It also pairs well with quinoa or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.
9. What if I don’t like the bitterness of Brussels sprouts?
   If you find Brussels sprouts too bitter, you can try blanching them in hot water for 1-2 minutes before shredding to help reduce the bitterness.
10. Can I substitute the lemon juice?
    Yes, you can substitute the lemon juice with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a tangy flavor, though lemon juice is the most common choice for this recipe.

Conclusion

Brussels Sprout Salad with Cranberries and Parmesan is the perfect balance of fresh, crunchy, savory, and sweet flavors. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish that adds a burst of color and texture to any meal. Whether you serve it as a light lunch, a side dish for Thanksgiving, or a weeknight dinner, this salad will be a hit with anyone who tries it. The ease of preparation and the versatility of the ingredients make it a great addition to your recipe collection. Try it today, and enjoy a refreshing, healthy, and delicious dish that’s sure to impress!

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