There’s something wonderfully refreshing about the vibrant crunch of a Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Crispy Bacon, Parmesan, and Toasted Walnuts. The moment I first tried this salad, I was amazed at how Brussels sprouts could transform from a misunderstood vegetable to the star of the plate. This dish has become a go-to for me, whether I’m hosting friends or simply in need of a bright and nutritious side to liven up dinner.
Picture the harmony of flavors: the nuttiness of the walnuts, the creaminess of the Parmesan, and the smoky essence of bacon (if you choose to include it) all coming together with a zesty twist of lemon. It’s a salad that not only satisfies but also invites everyone to gather around the table for a shared moment—perfect for those transitioning away from fast food or simply looking to elevate their home-cooked meals. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a striking dish that’s as versatile as it is easy to make, turning any meal into something special!
Why is Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad a must-try?
Fresh, Crisp Ingredients: The vibrant Brussels sprouts are finely shredded to provide a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with other flavors.
Decadent Flavor: The crispy bacon adds a savory touch while the Parmesan brings a rich creaminess.
Nutrient-Packed: With toasted walnuts and fresh chives, you’re getting healthy fats and antioxidants in each bite.
Effortless Preparation: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether enjoyed as a side or a main dish, it impresses guests and family alike, transforming perceptions of what a salad can be! Plus, if you’re looking for quick meal ideas, check out our easy dinner recipes!
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- Brussels sprouts – 12 ounces, finely shredded; they’re the star of this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad, bringing a refreshing crunch.
- Extra virgin olive oil – 3 tablespoons, plus more for serving; this adds a rich, fruity flavor that enhances the salad’s overall taste.
- Freshly grated Parmesan – 1/2 cup, plus more for serving; it provides a creamy, salty contrast that pairs perfectly with the sprouts.
- Toasted walnuts – 1/2 cup, coarsely chopped; their nuttiness contributes a satisfying texture and flavor depth.
- Fresh chives – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped; these brighten the dish with a mild onion flavor.
- Bacon (optional) – 4 strips, cooked and coarsely chopped; adding this optional ingredient introduces a smoky, savory element to the salad.
- Lemon – zest and juice from 1 lemon; it offers a zesty brightness that ties all the flavors together.
- Kosher salt – to taste; enhances the flavors of all ingredients without overpowering them.
- Freshly ground black pepper – to taste; adds a subtle heat that elevates each bite.
- Red chili flakes – for garnish; a pinch adds a spicy kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Now you have all you need for your delicious Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Crispy Bacon, Parmesan, and Toasted Walnuts!
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
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Trim and Shred: Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and halving them. Use a knife to make thin slices across the Brussels sprouts, shredding them for a delightful texture.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the shredded Brussels sprouts, extra virgin olive oil, freshly grated Parmesan, toasted walnuts, and chives. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
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Add Bacon (Optional): If you’re including bacon, fold in the coarsely chopped strips now. This adds a savory kick that beautifully complements the fresh ingredients.
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Zest and Juice: Zest the lemon right into the bowl, then squeeze in the juice. This will add a refreshing brightness that lifts the flavors of the salad.
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Transfer and Garnish: Move your salad to a serving platter, drizzling a bit more olive oil on top and sprinkling with additional Parmesan for that gourmet touch.
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Serve or Chill: Serve immediately for a crunchy bite or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to soften the Brussels sprouts a bit—either way, it’s delicious!
Optional: Garnish with red chili flakes for a touch of heat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest Brussels sprouts you can find for a delightful crunch and vibrant flavor. Stale veggies can ruin your salad’s appeal.
- Slice Carefully: Ensure you thinly shred the Brussels sprouts for even texture. Thick pieces can be chewy and less enjoyable.
- Bacon Variations: If you’re opting for bacon, cook it until crispy. Overcooked bacon can become tough, overshadowing the salad’s delightful freshness.
- Zest, Don’t Skip: Lemon zest is essential! It adds depth and brightness to the overall flavor, making the salad pop.
- Season Generously: Don’t underestimate salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors and elevates your Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad!
- Chill for Best Taste: Letting the salad sit for a while before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience.
How to Store and Freeze Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
Fridge: Transfer your Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad to an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve during this time.
Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for the salad, you can freeze individual components (like the bacon or walnuts) separately. They should be consumed within 1 month for the best flavor.
Reheating: If you’ve added bacon and want to enjoy it warm, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the salad’s texture.
Serving Tip: For the best taste and crunch, serve fresh rather than storing any leftovers. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Make Ahead Options
These Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Crispy Bacon, Parmesan, and Toasted Walnuts is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming and shredding them up to 24 hours in advance; just make sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The remaining ingredients, like the walnuts, cheese, and spices, can be pre-measured and stored separately to maintain their texture and flavor. When you’re ready to serve your salad, simply combine everything in a bowl, add the lemon zest and juice, and season to taste. With this method, your salad will be just as vibrant and delicious, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this delicious salad and make it uniquely yours!
- Vegan Delight: Omit the bacon and Parmesan, and swap them for crispy chickpeas and nutritional yeast to keep the flavors savory and rich.
- Cheese Swap: Try using goat cheese or feta instead of Parmesan for a tangy twist that adds creaminess to each bite.
- Nut Variations: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different texture and flavor profile. Each nut brings its delightful uniqueness!
- Extra Veggies: Add thinly sliced radishes or shredded carrots for added crunch and vibrant color, enhancing both the nutritional value and visual appeal.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or mint instead of chives to bring a different flavor dimension to your salad.
- Fruit Boost: Toss in some dried cranberries or apple slices for a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory ingredients.
- Heat it Up: For those who love spice, add a dash of Sriracha or jalapeños for a fiery kick that will awaken your taste buds.
- Citrus Variation: Use lime juice or orange zest instead of lemon to impart a unique citrus flavor that brightens every bite.
These variations allow you to explore and create your perfect version of a Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad!
What to Serve with Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that beautifully complement the crunchy vibrance of this refreshing salad.
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Grilled Chicken: Tender chicken marinated with lemon and herbs pairs well, enhancing the zesty flavors of the salad without overshadowing it.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side adds a hearty texture and earthy flavor, making it an excellent companion while keeping the meal light.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts with the savory notes of the salad, offering a comforting touch that balances the dish.
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Garlic Bread: A crusty slice of garlic bread brings warmth and familiar comfort, perfect for mopping up any extra lemony goodness.
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Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, complements the bacon’s richness while echoing the salad’s earthy elements.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp is delightful. The sweetness and spice provide a cozy ending to your lovely meal.
Imagine a table adorned with these flavors, inviting everyone to savor each bite together. Enjoy!
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Crispy Bacon, Parmesan, and Toasted Walnuts Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for ones that are firm and compact with a vibrant green color. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel soft, as these may be past their prime. Fresh Brussels sprouts will make your salad crisp and full of flavor!
How long can I store my Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad in the fridge?
Your Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, creating an even tastier dish over time. Just remember to check for freshness before serving!
Can I freeze leftovers of my Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad?
While it’s not ideal to freeze the whole salad, you can freeze elements like the crispy bacon or toasted walnuts separately. For best quality, consume them within 1 month. If you do freeze the bacon, make sure it’s crispy before freezing, as it can become chewy once thawed.
What should I do if my salad is too salty?
Very! If you find your salad is overly salty, consider balancing it out. You can add more fresh shredded Brussels sprouts to dilute the saltiness, or toss in some additional nuts or cheese. Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the dish and help balance flavors.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about allergies, this salad contains nuts (walnuts) and dairy (Parmesan). For nut allergies, feel free to omit the walnuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds. If you want to make this recipe vegetarian, simply leave out the bacon, and you’ll still enjoy a delicious and hearty salad!
How can I make my Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad even more flavorful?
For a flavor packed salad, consider adding in some crumbled feta cheese or ripe avocado. You can also experiment with other herbs like parsley or dill to enhance the salad’s freshness. Lastly, a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a delightful kick that complements the creamy and crunchy ingredients wonderfully!
Delicious Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Crispy Bacon Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and halving them. Use a knife to make thin slices across the Brussels sprouts, shredding them for a delightful texture.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the shredded Brussels sprouts, extra virgin olive oil, freshly grated Parmesan, toasted walnuts, and chives. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- If you’re including bacon, fold in the coarsely chopped strips now. This adds a savory kick that beautifully complements the fresh ingredients.
- Zest the lemon right into the bowl, then squeeze in the juice. This will add a refreshing brightness that lifts the flavors of the salad.
- Move your salad to a serving platter, drizzling a bit more olive oil on top and sprinkling with additional Parmesan for that gourmet touch.
- Serve immediately for a crunchy bite or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to soften the Brussels sprouts a bit—either way, it’s delicious!
- Optional: Garnish with red chili flakes for a touch of heat.