Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

If you’re looking for a salad that’s not only stunning to look at but also bursting with flavor, this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is just the ticket! It’s become one of my absolute favorites, and I can’t help but share it with friends and family. The combination of crispy brussels sprouts, sweet pomegranate arils, and crunchy candied pecans creates a symphony of textures and tastes that’s simply irresistible.

This salad is perfect for all occasions! Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday dinner or just need something fresh for a busy weeknight meal, it fits right in. Plus, it can be made ahead, making your life just a little bit easier when it comes to entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together quickly without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet and tangy flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep this salad in advance! It holds up beautifully in the fridge.
• Packed with Flavor: The bright pomegranate and crunchy pecans elevate the humble brussels sprouts into something special.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this delicious salad to life! Each one adds its own unique flavor and texture, making your dish both colorful and satisfying.

For the Salad

• 12 ounces shaved brussels sprouts, stems removed
• 1 1/2 cups pomegranate arils
• 1 1/2 cups honeycrisp apple, diced
• 1 cup pecans, candied (recipe below) or just toasted
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries
• 3/4 cup shaved parmesan

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Candied Pecans

• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne (adjust based on your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons water

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have in your pantry.

• Add more crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an extra layer of texture.
• Switch up the fruit: Try adding diced pears or sliced grapes instead of apples for a different fruity twist.
• Make it vegan: Omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative; you’ll still get plenty of richness from the dressing.
• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this salad a complete meal.

How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Pecans

Start by making those irresistible candied pecans. In a pan over medium heat, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne, vanilla extract, salt, and water. Stir continuously until the sugar melts and coats the nuts nicely. This step adds a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the salad!

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients well ensures each bite is infused with that zesty flavor we love!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine shaved brussels sprouts, pomegranate arils, diced honeycrisp apple, candied pecans (or toasted if you prefer), dried cranberries, and shaved parmesan. Toss everything gently—you want all those beautiful colors and flavors to mingle without bruising the sprouts!

Step 4: Dress It Up

Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad just before serving. Give it one last gentle toss. This way, every bite will be perfectly dressed without sogginess setting in too early.

Enjoy creating this delightful Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans! It’s sure to brighten up any table and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

Creating the perfect shaved Brussels sprout salad is all about the details – follow these tips for a delicious and visually appealing dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts, ripe pomegranates, and crunchy pecans make all the difference in flavor and texture. The fresher your ingredients, the better your salad will taste!
• Slice Evenly: For a uniform texture, make sure to shave or slice your Brussels sprouts evenly. This not only helps with presentation but also ensures that every bite has the same delightful crunch.
• Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain that fresh crunch of the sprouts.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add extra ingredients like sliced radishes or toasted sunflower seeds for added flavor and nutrition. Don’t be afraid to personalize it to suit your tastes!
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep the salad fresh for up to 2 days, although it’s best enjoyed right away.

How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning! Presenting it attractively can enhance your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint can brighten up the dish and add an aromatic touch.
• Extra Pomegranate Arils: Sprinkle additional pomegranate arils on top just before serving for a pop of color and sweetness.
• A Drizzle of Dressing: A light drizzle of the lemon Dijon vinaigrette just before serving can enhance both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side dish complements the flavors in the salad beautifully while adding a hearty element to your meal.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness pairs well with the tangy elements in the salad, creating a balanced plate that feels comforting.
• Grilled Chicken Breast: A lean protein option that adds substance without overpowering the delicate flavors of your salad.
• Baked Falafel: These crispy bites are packed with flavor and provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with your refreshing salad.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this stunning Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This shaved Brussels sprout salad with pomegranate and candied pecans is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• This salad is best eaten within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the sprouts.

Freezing

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the fresh ingredients, which may become mushy once thawed.
• However, you can freeze candied pecans separately if you make a large batch.

Reheating

• This salad is best served cold or at room temperature; there’s no need to reheat.
• If you prefer a warm dish, consider lightly sautéing the Brussels sprouts before adding other ingredients.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

What can I substitute for candied pecans in Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans?

You can use toasted pecans or walnuts instead. If you’re looking for a sweet touch without candying them, try lightly tossing nuts with maple syrup and roasting them.

How long does Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans last in the fridge?

The salad stays fresh for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until serving!

Is it possible to add more ingredients to my Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like goat cheese, avocado, or even some roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this shaved Brussels sprout salad with pomegranate and candied pecans as much as I do! It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful harmony of flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Remember, this recipe is all about creativity—so feel free to make it your own. Happy cooking!