Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Introduction:

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is a healthy and vibrant side dish that combines finely chopped kale and thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with crunchy almonds, Parmesan cheese, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a nutritious meal or as a refreshing accompaniment to any main dish.

Ingredients

• 4 cups kale, finely chopped (stems removed)
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced or shaved
• 1/4 cup almonds, toasted and sliced (or pecans, walnuts)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Massage the Kale: In a large bowl, toss the finely chopped kale with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Gently massage the kale with your hands for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes softer and slightly wilted.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Thinly slice or shave the Brussels sprouts using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Add them to the bowl with the massaged kale.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the kale and Brussels sprouts mixture. Toss well to coat the vegetables evenly.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the toasted almonds (or your choice of nuts), grated or shaved Parmesan cheese, and dried cranberries (if using) over the salad.
6. Serve: Serve immediately or let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld. This salad holds up well, so it can be made in advance.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Nuts: Substitute almonds with pecans, walnuts, or cashews for different flavor profiles.
• Cheese: Swap Parmesan for feta or goat cheese for a different taste.
• Fruit: Use fresh apple slices or pomegranate seeds instead of dried cranberries for a fresh twist.
• Protein: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may continue to soften over time, but the flavors will deepen.
• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. If making in advance, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts? Yes, pre-shredded Brussels sprouts work well and save time.
2. How do I make the kale less bitter? Massaging the kale with lemon juice and salt helps reduce bitterness and softens the leaves.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, the salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Add the nuts and cheese right before serving to maintain their crunch.
4. What can I use if I don’t have Dijon mustard? You can substitute with yellow mustard or omit it if necessary.
5. How do I toast almonds? Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried? Fresh cranberries are too tart for this salad; dried cranberries or other dried fruits are preferable.
7. Is there a vegetarian option for this salad? Yes, the salad is vegetarian as is, but if you substitute cheese with a vegan alternative, it will be vegan.
8. Can I use a different type of green? Yes, you can substitute kale with spinach, arugula, or other leafy greens.
9. How long can I store the salad? The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but the texture might change slightly.
10. Can I add protein to this salad? Yes, grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas are great additions for extra protein.

Conclusion

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a nutritious and satisfying addition to any meal. The combination of tender kale, crunchy Brussels sprouts, tangy dressing, and sweet cranberries creates a well-balanced dish that is both elegant and easy to prepare. Perfect for a healthy side or light main course, this salad embodies the essence of fresh, seasonal ingredients with a deliciously satisfying crunch.

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