Name: Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Sweet Pomegranate Pecans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Shaved Brussels Sprouts (Shave fresh for best texture.); 1 cup Pomegranate Arils (Fresh is ideal; frozen can be used.); 1 medium Honeycrisp Apple (Can substitute with pears.); 1 cup Pecans (Use candied or toasted.); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries; 1/2 cup Shaved Parmesan (Use vegan parmesan for dairy-free.); 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 2 tablespoons Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (Avoid bottled juices.); 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (Substitute with white wine vinegar if desired.); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard; 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup or Honey (Omit honey for vegan option.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne (Optional for spice.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 tablespoon Water

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself on a quest for a dish that captures the essence of both flavor and festivity. That’s when I stumbled upon the perfect recipe: a Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans. The moment I tossed those vibrant emerald shavings with glistening pomegranate arils and sweet, crunchy candied pecans, I knew I had found a showstopper.

This salad isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that brings a fresh, lively energy to any gathering. Imagine the satisfying crunch of the Brussels sprouts mingling with the juicy burst of pomegranate and the sweet warmth of candied pecans—it’s a delightful dance on your palate! Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor the ingredients to your liking. So whether you’re looking for a standout side dish for a holiday spread or something fresh to brighten up your weeknight dinners, this salad is sure to impress!

Why is Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant Colors: This salad is a visual delight, featuring stunning green Brussels sprouts, deep red pomegranate arils, and golden-brown candied pecans that brighten any table.

Incredible Texture: Enjoy the perfect combination of crispy, crunchy, and juicy bites, making each forkful a flavorful adventure.

Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap ingredients, mixing in different fruits or nuts to suit your taste, just like in my Apple Arugula Salad.

Quick to Prepare: With minimal cooking involved, you can whip up this impressive salad in no time, leaving you more moments to share with loved ones.

Health Benefits: Packed with nutrients, this salad is not only gluten-free but also vegetarian, making it a wholesome choice that fits various dietary needs.

Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Shaved Brussels Sprouts – These form the crisp base of the salad; shave them fresh for the best texture.
• Pomegranate Arils – Juicy and sweet; fresh is ideal, but frozen can substitute if out of season.
• Honeycrisp Apple – Adds a refreshing sweetness; feel free to swap for pears for a different twist.
• Pecans – Use either candied for sweetness or toasted for a nutty crunch; walnuts work well too.
• Dried Cranberries – These little gems provide a chewy tartness that enhances the salad’s overall flavor.
• Shaved Parmesan – Adds a savory, nutty richness; opt for vegan parmesan for a dairy-free version.

For the Dressing
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A high-quality oil serves as the dressing base for rich flavor.
• Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice – Essential for brightness and flavor; avoid bottled juices for the best result.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Offers a tangy punch; you can switch it out with white wine vinegar if preferred.
• Dijon Mustard – Brings creaminess and a hint of spice to the dressing mix.
• Maple Syrup or Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tang; omit honey for a vegan option.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Key for enhancing and elevating all the flavors in the salad.

For the Candied Pecans
• Brown Sugar – Creates that sweet glaze for the pecans; essential for the candied texture.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm, spicy note for complexity.
• Cayenne – A pinch offers a delightful kick to contrast the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract – Introduces a lovely depth of flavor.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
• Water – Helps in making that delicious, glossy candied coating.

Enjoy making this Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans, a dish that’s not just a joy to eat but also a delight to prepare!

How to Make Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Prepare Candied Pecans: In a saucepan, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne, vanilla extract, salt, and water. Heat until bubbling, then add chopped pecans, cooking for 3-5 minutes until glossy. Transfer to parchment to cool.
Shred Brussels Sprouts: Use a food processor or mandoline to thinly shred the Brussels sprouts. Aim for an even texture to ensure every bite is deliciously crunchy.
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the shredded Brussels sprouts, pomegranate arils, diced honeycrisp apple, cooled candied pecans, dried cranberries, and shaved parmesan. Let the colors mingle!
Whisk Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well blended.
Dress Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything to combine. Let it sit for 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Optional: Top with additional pomegranate arils for a pop of color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans?

Looking to elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement this vibrant salad?

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, these potatoes add a comforting element that balances the freshness of the salad. They are a warm embrace on your plate.
Honey Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of honey-glazed carrots brings an earthy richness that enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal without overpowering the salad.
Grilled Chicken Thighs: Juicy and smoky, grilled chicken thighs add a heartiness that contrasts wonderfully with the crisp salad while bringing a satisfying protein punch to your table.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty, fluffy quinoa pilaf infuses the meal with wholesome grains, making for a delightful texture contrast that complements the crunchy salad elements beautifully.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Tender shrimp sautéed in lemon and garlic offer a lightness and zesty flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the bright ingredients of the salad.
Crispy Baguette Slices: Serving toasted bread on the side allows the opportunity to scoop up salad bites, creating a delightful combination of crunch and freshness for a party of textures.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This drink offers a refreshing sweetness that echoes the salad’s fruity notes, turning your meal into an uplifting celebration.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich, creamy chocolate mousse makes a sumptuous finale that adds a touch of indulgent sweetness after the bright, vibrant salad.
Herbed Sparkling Water: Elevate your dining experience with a refreshing herbal-infused sparkling water that quenches your thirst while enhancing the flavorful notes of the meal.

Expert Tips for Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Prep Candied Pecans First: Making the candied pecans in advance gives them time to cool and harden, ensuring they won’t become soggy in the salad.
Choose Fresh Sprouts: Freshly shaved Brussels sprouts offer the best texture and flavor. Avoid pre-packaged shavings for a truly crunchy experience in your crispy shaved Brussels sprout salad.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap the honeycrisp apple with pears or even try different nuts like walnuts to create your own twist on this delightful dish.
Dressing Timing Matters: To keep your salad crisp and vibrant, add the dressing just before serving—this prevents wilting while allowing the flavors to shine.
Balance Sweetness: The addition of dried cranberries adds a chewy tartness; adjust their quantity based on your sweetness preferences in this crispy shaved Brussels sprout salad.
Texture Tips: To ensure even distribution of flavors in the salad, mix the ingredients thoroughly but gently, maintaining the integrity of the sprouts and pomegranate arils.

Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with this delightful salad, enhancing it with your favorite flavors and textures!

Fruit Swap: Substitute honeycrisp apples with diced pears or seasonal citrus for a refreshing twist. Each bite will bring a new taste experience!
Nutty Alternatives: Use walnuts instead of pecans for a different crunch. Toasted almonds or hazelnuts can also provide a delightful nuttiness.
Cheesy Goodness: Replace the shaved parmesan with feta or crumbled goat cheese for a tangy depth of flavor. The creaminess will elevate the overall richness!
Spice it Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of chili powder to the dressing for a touch of heat. Spice lovers will adore this kick!
Dried Fruit Medley: Mix in dried cherries or apricots alongside the cranberries for a balanced sweetness. The additional textures create a fruity explosion!
Zesty Vinaigrette: Experiment with different vinaigrettes, such as balsamic or tahini, to change the dressing profile entirely. It’ll give the salad a new identity in every serving!
Fresh Herbs: Throw in chopped fresh herbs like mint, basil, or parsley for an aromatic burst that brightens the dish. Fresh herbs add a delightful freshness to every forkful!
Vegan Delight: Make it fully plant-based by using maple syrup instead of honey, and ensure all toppings are vegan-friendly. A wonderful option for your vegan get-togethers!

Storage Tips for Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the crisp texture, remember to add the dressing just before serving.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended due to the salad’s delicate ingredients, you can freeze the candied pecans separately for up to 1 month.

Reheating: If you have dressed leftovers, enjoy them cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing bite, or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Ingredient Prep: Chop and prepare all salad ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge in separate containers. Mix together just before serving for maximum freshness in your crispy shaved Brussels sprout salad.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the candied pecans, as well as wash and shred the Brussels sprouts, up to 24 hours in advance. Store the pecans in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crunchy, and refrigerate the shredded Brussels sprouts in a sealed bag. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the salad ingredients together, whisk the dressing, and dress the salad just before serving to ensure it remains fresh and vibrant. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delightful flavors with minimal effort!

Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for sprouts that are bright green and firm to the touch, with no dark spots or wilting leaves. Fresh Brussels sprouts will have a sweet, crisp flavor that’s essential for this salad, so make sure to shave them yourself for the best texture!

How should I store leftovers of this salad?
To maintain freshness, store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days. Remember to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent wilting and sogginess!

Can I freeze any part of this salad?
While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the entire salad due to the delicate nature of the ingredients, you can freeze the candied pecans separately. Simply place them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to use them, just let them thaw at room temperature before adding to your salad.

What if my candied pecans don’t turn out as expected?
No worries! If your pecans don’t get that glossy finish, it might be because they weren’t stirred enough while cooking. Make sure to keep an eye on them and stir continuously for 3-5 minutes until they are well coated. If they become too hard after cooling, simply give them a quick 10-second zap in the microwave to soften slightly before adding to the salad.

Is this salad suitable for my gluten-sensitive friends?
Very! This Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad can easily be made gluten-free by selecting a gluten-free Dijon mustard and ensuring any store-bought ingredients, like dried cranberries, are certified gluten-free. It’s a healthy, delicious option that caters to various dietary needs!