Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this incredible brussel sprout salad that’s become a must-have at my Thanksgiving table! It’s such a fantastic way to brighten up the traditional spread and offers a fresh, crunchy alternative to those heavy dishes we’re all used to. Trust me, the vibrant colors and textures of this salad will have everyone coming back for seconds—it’s that good! I love how the sweetness of the dried cranberries balances perfectly with the nutty crunch of the almonds, and oh, that dressing brings it all together beautifully. If you’re looking to mix things up this Thanksgiving, this brussel sprout salad is the way to go!
Ingredients for Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this brussel sprout salad shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb brussel sprouts – Make sure they’re trimmed and shredded for that perfect bite.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries – These add a lovely sweetness and a pop of color!
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds – For that delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sprouts.
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – This gives the salad a subtle, savory richness (you can skip this for a vegan option!).
- 1/4 cup olive oil – Use a good quality oil for the dressing; it makes a difference!
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar – A splash of acidity to brighten up all those flavors.
- 1 tbsp honey – This will balance the tanginess of the vinegar and the bitterness of the sprouts.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Simple seasoning that elevates everything!
With these fresh and simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to a salad that will be the star of your Thanksgiving dinner!
How to Prepare Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Making this brussel sprout salad is super simple and quick—perfect for those busy Thanksgiving mornings! Just follow these easy steps to get everything ready:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, let’s get those brussel sprouts ready! Trim off the tough stems and remove any yellow leaves. Then, using a sharp knife or a food processor, shred them thinly. You want them to be bite-sized, so aim for about 1/8 inch thick.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded brussel sprouts with the dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and grated parmesan cheese. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together—this salad is all about those lovely colors!
- Now, let’s make the dressing! In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until it’s well blended and smooth. This is where the magic happens, so don’t skip this step!
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss it all together. Make sure every sprout gets coated in that deliciousness. If you’ve got time, let it sit for about 30 minutes in the fridge before serving; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
- Serve immediately, or chill it for a little longer if you prefer it cold. Either way, it’s going to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Freshness: This salad bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors that bring life to your holiday table.
- Healthiness: Packed with nutrients, this dish is a guilt-free way to enjoy your Thanksgiving feast!
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy holiday cooking!
- Versatile Side Dish: It pairs beautifully with just about any main course, making it a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
- Colorful Presentation: The mix of greens, reds, and almonds not only tastes great but also looks stunning on your table.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep this salad a day in advance, saving you precious time on the big day.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your brussel sprout salad is absolutely perfect every time:
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter salad, feel free to add a bit more honey. You can also swap in maple syrup for a unique flavor twist!
- Storage: If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just know that the sprouts may get a bit softer over time, but it’ll still taste great!
- Flavor Enhancements: Want to kick it up a notch? Try adding thinly sliced apples or pears for extra sweetness and crunch. A handful of crumbled feta or goat cheese can also add a creamy element that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Fresh Herbs: Toss in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving for an extra burst of flavor. It adds a lovely freshness that elevates the whole dish!
- Keep It Crisp: If you’re making the salad ahead of time, I recommend mixing everything except the dressing and nuts. Add those just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy!
With these tips, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this delightful brussel sprout salad at Thanksgiving!
Variations of Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this brussel sprout salad and keep it exciting for each Thanksgiving! Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
- Nuts Galore: Swap out the sliced almonds for other nuts like walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile. You could even toast them for an added crunch and depth!
- Fruits for Fun: Add in some diced apples or pears for a sweet crunch that pairs wonderfully with the savory brussel sprouts. Dried apricots or figs can also bring a lovely sweetness to the mix!
- Cheese Choices: Instead of parmesan, try crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. The creaminess of these cheeses complements the salad beautifully!
- Dress It Up: Experiment with different dressings! A lemon tahini dressing or a balsamic vinaigrette can add a whole new layer of flavor. Just keep the balance of sweet and tangy in mind!
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or mint for a refreshing taste. They can really brighten up the salad and make it feel extra special!
- Grains for Heartiness: For a more filling salad, mix in some cooked quinoa or farro. This adds a lovely texture and makes it a more substantial side dish.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect brussel sprout salad! The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about what flavors and textures you love most. Enjoy getting creative with it!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of this brussel sprout salad is super helpful, especially for those of us watching what we eat during the holidays. Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values for one serving:
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 5g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use or if you decide to make any substitutions. It’s always good to keep an eye on portion sizes, especially during the festive season!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about this brussel sprout salad for Thanksgiving? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries, along with my trusty answers:
Can I make this salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare everything, mix the brussel sprouts, cranberries, nuts, and cheese, but hold off on the dressing until you’re ready to serve. This keeps everything crispy and fresh!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for up to 2 days. Just remember, the brussel sprouts may lose their crispness over time, but it’ll still taste great!
What’s the best way to serve this salad?
Serve it chilled or at room temperature—either way, it’s delicious! I love to pair it with roasted turkey or glazed ham, as the bright flavors really complement the savory dishes. It also works wonderfully as a light lunch the next day!
Can I customize the ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with what you add. You can switch up the nuts, add different fruits, or even try a new dressing. It’s all about making it your own!
Is this salad suitable for special diets?
Yes! This salad is vegetarian, and if you omit the parmesan cheese, it can easily be made vegan too. Just check that your honey is from a vegan source if you go that route!
I hope these answers help you enjoy your brussel sprout salad even more this Thanksgiving. It’s all about making cooking and sharing food a little easier and a lot more fun!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious brussel sprout salad, let’s talk about how to make your Thanksgiving spread even more fabulous by pairing it with some scrumptious dishes! Here are a few of my favorite ideas that complement the fresh flavors and textures of the salad:
- Roasted Turkey: The classic Thanksgiving centerpiece! The savory, juicy turkey pairs beautifully with the bright crunch of the salad, creating a perfect balance.
- Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweetness of the glazed ham contrasts nicely with the tangy dressing of the salad, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Stuffing: Whether it’s traditional bread stuffing or a wild rice blend, the comforting flavors of stuffing are a great match for the crispness of your salad.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a rich counterpoint to the salad’s freshness, making for a satisfying plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Think carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts roasted with a sprinkle of herbs. They’ll echo the salad while adding warmth to your meal.
- Cranberry Sauce: A scoop of tangy cranberry sauce alongside the salad brings a lovely harmony of flavors, enhancing the overall Thanksgiving vibe.
- Artisan Bread: Serve some crusty bread or rolls on the side for the perfect vehicle to soak up all those delicious flavors!
With these pairings, you’ll create a beautiful, balanced Thanksgiving meal that not only satisfies but also delights your guests. Enjoy every moment of your delicious feast!
Imprimer
Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Temps Total: 15 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
A fresh and healthy brussel sprout salad perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingrédients
- 1 lb brussel sprouts, trimmed and shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the brussel sprouts by trimming and shredding them.
- In a large bowl, combine the brussel sprouts, cranberries, almonds, and parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- For a vegan option, omit the parmesan cheese.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 0 minutes
- Catégorie: Salad
- Méthode: Raw
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sucre: 10g
- De Sodium: 150mg
- La graisse: 15g
- Graisses Saturées: 2g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 12g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 20g
- La fibre: 5g
- La protéine: 5g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 5mg
Mots-clés: brussel sprout salad thanksgiving
