Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is a show-stopper for any gathering! With its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, this salad is perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or a delightful weeknight meal. Packed with textures from the crunchy sprouts and sweet pomegranate, it’s a recipe that will surely impress your guests while being easy to prepare in advance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet pomegranate, tart apples, and crunchy pecans creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this salad in under 40 minutes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this dish ahead of time to save on stress when hosting or during busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for holiday meals or as a light lunch on its own.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is both tasty and nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Knife
• Cutting board
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for the shaved Brussels sprouts and diced apples.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Use a whisk for combining the dressing ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 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
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons water

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

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Pecans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne, vanilla extract, salt, and water. Mix until well coated.
3. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. Let cool before adding to the salad.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add shaved Brussels sprouts, pomegranate arils, diced honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, and shaved parmesan.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Add Candied Pecans

1. Just before serving, sprinkle the cooled candied pecans over the salad.
2. Toss lightly once more to distribute evenly.

Now you have an elegant Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your creation!

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

This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect dish for gatherings. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it as the star of a light lunch or dinner. Pair with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

With Grilled Chicken

• Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken breast for a heartier meal. The flavors blend beautifully, making it satisfying and healthy.

At Holiday Gatherings

• This salad is ideal for potlucks and holiday dinners. Its festive colors brighten up any table setting.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a more extensive salad, serve atop mixed greens like spinach or arugula. This adds extra nutrients and texture.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Prepare in advance and store in the fridge. It stays fresh for a couple of days, making it a convenient meal prep choice.

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

Getting the most out of your Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad is easy with these tips. Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh brussels sprouts and pomegranates make all the difference in flavor. Check for firmness and vibrant color.
• Shave Properly – Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to achieve even shavings on the brussels sprouts. This enhances texture and taste.
• Make Ahead – Prepare the dressing and candied pecans ahead of time. This allows flavors to develop and saves you time on busy days.
• Balance Flavors – Adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more maple syrup or lemon juice according to your taste preferences.
• Store Separately – If prepping in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

Complementing your Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with the right side dishes can enhance its flavors. Consider these delicious options:

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tangy salad; toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and texture; toss in herbs like parsley or cilantro for freshness.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal grilled veggies such as zucchini or bell peppers bring a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely.
4. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make an inviting side, perfect for mopping up any leftover dressing.
5. Lentil Soup – A hearty lentil soup is filling and nutritious; consider adding spices like cumin or coriander for extra warmth.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with rice, beans, or vegetables, these colorful peppers add nutrition while being visually appealing on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish’s flavor and presentation.

• Using Whole Brussels Sprouts: Not shaving the Brussels sprouts makes for a dense salad. Use a sharp knife or mandoline to shave them thinly for better texture.
• Overlooking Dressing Balance: Too much vinegar or lemon can overpower the salad. Start with less dressing, taste, and adjust as needed to achieve a balanced flavor.
• Skipping the Pecans: Candied pecans add sweetness and crunch. If you’re short on time, opt for store-bought ones or toast raw pecans with sugar at home.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale pomegranate arils or old apples can hurt flavor. Always check freshness before adding to your salad.
• Adding All Ingredients at Once: Combine ingredients just before serving to prevent sogginess. Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Freezing Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

• Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the Brussels sprouts and fruits.
• If you must freeze components, consider freezing only candied pecans separately.

Reheating Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad in a covered dish for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat on low, stirring frequently to avoid overcooking vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans.

Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can shave the Brussels sprouts and prepare other ingredients a day in advance. Just keep them refrigerated separately.

What can I substitute for pecans?

If you prefer another nut, walnuts or almonds work well too. Just ensure they are toasted or candied for added flavor.

How do I make this salad vegan?

Simply omit the parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly!

Is there a way to make this salad gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure any condiments like mustard do not contain gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is perfect for any gathering or holiday celebration. Its vibrant colors and mix of textures make it visually appealing and delicious. Feel free to customize it by adding other seasonal fruits, nuts, or even grains like quinoa for extra nutrition!