Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that can brighten up any meal, this Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette is just the ticket! I love how this salad balances the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you serve it as a side or main event, this salad is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility; you can easily adjust it to fit your taste preferences or the season. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, so you can feel good about serving it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for those days when time is short.
• Family-Friendly: With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the ingredients in advance and toss them together right before serving for an easy meal prep solution.
• Delicious Flavor: The honey mustard vinaigrette adds a zesty kick that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple and nutritious ingredients, this salad is both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this salad is a breeze! You’ll find that these are all simple, wholesome items that you might already have on hand. Let’s dive into what you need:

For the Salad

• 12 oz Brussels sprouts
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
• 1/3 cup pecans (chopped)

For the Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/3 cup olive oil (about 5-6 tablespoons)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Brussels sprout salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients—here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add More Crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an extra layer of texture.
• Go Green: Mix in some finely chopped kale or spinach for added color and nutrients.
• Sweeten Up: Substitute maple syrup for honey if you’re looking for a different sweetener.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette if you enjoy a bit of heat.

How to Make Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the ends off your Brussels sprouts and removing any wilted outer leaves. Then, thinly slice them using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. This step is important because shaving them helps create a tender texture while allowing them to soak up all that delicious vinaigrette!

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, honey, and olive oil until well combined. This vinaigrette packs a flavorful punch that brings everything together beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add your shaved Brussels sprouts along with chopped dried cranberries and pecans. Pour your homemade vinaigrette over the top. This step is where all the magic happens—toss everything together until every bite is coated in that zesty goodness!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer your salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. You can enjoy it right away or let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld even further. This salad not only looks stunning but tastes incredible too!

Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

Creating a delicious Brussels sprout salad is easier than you think, and with these handy tips, you’ll impress everyone at your table!

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select firm and vibrant green sprouts to ensure the best flavor and texture. Fresh Brussels sprouts will have a sweeter taste and a satisfying crunch compared to older ones.
• Shave Thinly for Texture: Using a sharp knife or mandoline to shave the Brussels sprouts thinly enhances their tenderness and allows them to absorb the vinaigrette better, making each bite delightful.
• Toast Pecans for Extra Flavor: Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them gives a warm, nutty flavor that elevates the dish. Just be careful not to burn them; a few minutes in a dry skillet should do the trick!
• Customize Your Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter salad, feel free to adjust the amount of honey in your vinaigrette. A touch more can balance the tanginess of the Dijon mustard perfectly.
• Let It Marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for about 10 minutes after mixing helps all the flavors meld together beautifully. This little step makes a big difference in taste!

How to Serve Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

This vibrant salad isn’t just tasty; it’s also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully at your next gathering or dinner.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Feta Cheese Crumbles (Plant-Based Alternative): For a creamy touch without compromising dietary preferences, try using plant-based feta cheese crumbles that complement the salad well.
• Sliced Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes provide an extra crunch and bright color contrast that makes your salad pop on the plate.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs can serve as a great side dish, adding protein and fiber while maintaining a healthy profile.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with this salad’s zesty vinaigrette, creating a comforting combination.
• Grilled Chicken (or Tofu): Grilled chicken or marinated tofu can add hearty protein options that make your meal more filling without overshadowing the salad’s refreshing taste.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing from your plate, making it even more enjoyable.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette is set to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! It stays fresh in the refrigerator and can be made ahead, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the vinaigrette separately to maintain the salad’s crunchiness.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the texture of Brussels sprouts.
• It’s recommended to skip freezing and instead make smaller batches if needed.

Reheating

• The salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer it warm, gently toss it in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, but be cautious not to overheat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our delicious Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette:

Can I use different nuts in this Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds. Just ensure they are chopped for easy eating!

How can I make this Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The flavors will still be delightful!

What other ingredients can I add to this salad?

You can personalize your salad by adding ingredients like sliced apples, feta cheese alternatives, or even roasted chickpeas for added protein.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep as it holds well in the fridge and makes for a quick grab-and-go lunch option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Brussels Sprout Salad in Honey Mustard Vinaigrette as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meals while keeping things fresh and flavorful. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or just for yourself during the week, I’m confident you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!