Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple

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Craving a burst of vibrant flavors in your next meal? This magical Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple delivers crisp, colorful excitement from the very first bite. Sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and creamy goat cheese create a joyful harmony, while toasted pecans add irresistible crunch! If you love unforgettable salad creations, don’t miss our Easy Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing and discover a new seasonal favorite today.

Why You’ll Love Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple

• Bursting with invigorating, lively textures and bold flavors
• Balanced sweet, tangy, and creamy sensations in every bite
• Satisfying enough for a nourishing lunch or radiant holiday side
• Effortless prep—crunchy, fresh, and ready in just 40 minutes
• Natural, wholesome ingredients for a guilt-free, feel-good meal

Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple

Every ingredient in this salad brings something special, from crispness to comfort:

• 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and beautifully shredded—the green heart of this vibrant dish
• 1 large Honeycrisp apple, cored and diced for juicy, spirited sweetness
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, lending a thrilling tartness and vibrant color
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped to perfection for a satisfying, crunchy bite
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled for delicate tang and velvety richness
• 1/4 cup olive oil—silky foundation for a harmonious dressing
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar—adding a lush, deep zing
• 1 tablespoon honey, for gentle, caressing sweetness
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, tapping into bold, layered flavor notes
• 1 clove garlic, minced—bringing warmth and captivating aroma
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, enhancing every ingredient’s spirit
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, for a whisper of complexity

This radiant combination transforms a simple salad into a celebration you’ll want to share. For another inspired apple salad, visit our Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad.

Necessary Tools

Set up your kitchen for sensational success with these essential, empowering tools:

• Sharp chef’s knife or mandoline: achieves ultra-fine shreds for dazzling texture
• Sturdy cutting board: provides stability for speedy, joyful prep
• Large mixing bowl: perfect for tossing all those lively, colorful ingredients together
• Small whisk or fork: brings the dressing to its silkiest, most balanced glory
• Measuring cups and spoons: guarantee precision in every delicious detail
• Spatula or salad tongs: gently fold in creamy goat cheese and dress your salad with grace
• Food processor (optional): a powerful shortcut for effortlessly shredding Brussels sprouts

Having these dynamic tools at your fingertips ensures every step feels easy, enjoyable, and filled with confident anticipation.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Unleash your creative side—this salad shines whether you follow tradition or embrace bold twists. Here’s how you can personalize your Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple and keep excitement at the heart of your table:

• Make it nut-free: Swap toasted pecans for crunchy pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds to preserve that lively crunch without nuts.
• Love extra fruit? Toss in pomegranate arils for a jewel-toned pop or thin-sliced pears for even more sweetness.
• Prefer a sharper cheese? Crumbled feta or shaved parmesan inflame a savory, tangy kick as a swap for goat cheese.
• Looking for more depth? Add a handful of roasted sweet potato cubes—cozy and satisfying.
• Blend in greens: Mix in baby spinach or massaged kale for uplifting color and extra nutrition. Our Easy Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing is a vibrant companion to this idea!
• Searching for extra protein? Grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or diced tofu will make this a fulfilling main.
• Dried fruit variety: Choose tart cherries or golden raisins to replace cranberries in a delicious twist.
• Dressing adjustments: Maple syrup can stand in for honey in the dressing, enhancing those delightful autumn vibes.
• For garlic lovers: Double up on the garlic or add freshly cracked pink peppercorns for a stunning finish.

Let each ingredient invite you to new flavor adventures—transitioning seamlessly across seasons or menus. For a sweet treat to showcase more fresh apple, try our Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling!

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple

Delight in every stunning step as you bring this Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple to vibrant life. Each detail blends vibrant, crisp vegetables and luscious accents for a salad you’ll crave again and again.

Step 1: Shred and Prep for Vibrancy

Trim the Brussels sprouts and remove stubborn outer leaves. Using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor, slice the sprouts into fine, inviting ribbons. This step creates marvelous texture and infuses the salad with irresistible freshness.

Step 2: Dice and Combine with Color

Core the Honeycrisp apple and cut it into cheerful, bite-sized cubes. Add diced apple, bright dried cranberries, and fragrant toasted pecans directly into your bowl of luscious shredded sprouts. Each addition heightens color and excitement!

Step 3: Mix the Dreamy Dressing

In a smaller bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until your dressing is luscious, silky, and beautifully blended—ready to dazzle the greens.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Pour the dreamy dressing over your salad mixture. Use a spatula or clean hands to toss until everything glistens with flavor and is seductively coated.

Step 5: Gently Fold in Goat Cheese

Scatter the creamy goat cheese crumbles over the salad and tenderly fold them in, preserving those decadent bites throughout.

Step 6: Rest and Reveal

Let the salad stand for 15 minutes. This brief pause softens the sprouts and deepens flavors, creating a harmonious, craveable experience in every bite.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple

Present this eye-catching Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple in a generously-sized serving bowl or artfully layered on a platter. The glittering reds of cranberry and apple, golden crunch of pecans, and snowy flecks of goat cheese ignite the senses with joyful anticipation. Serve as a centerpiece at holiday gatherings or brighten weeknight dinners with a vibrant, refreshing burst. Pair alongside roasted meats or enjoy solo for a soul-satisfying lunch. This salad radiates happiness on every table.

Pro Tips & Tricks

Experience ultimate salad triumph with these high-impact strategies:

• For ultra-tender Brussels sprouts, slice as thinly as possible with a sharp blade or mandoline.
• Toast pecans beforehand until fragrant; this amplifies their enchanting, nutty punch.
• Massage Brussels sprouts gently with olive oil and a pinch of salt to soften tough edges and unleash irresistible tenderness.
• Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over diced apple to preserve color and a sparkling fresh flavor.
• Wait until just before serving to add the goat cheese, keeping every crumble picture-perfect.
• Layer in extra dried fruit or nuts if you want to transform the salad into a fulfilling meal.
• If prepping in advance, combine all ingredients except cheese and apples. Add those last for maximal impact!

Mastering these details sparks a truly memorable, praise-worthy Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple.

Storage Instructions

Preserve every ounce of vibrancy by following these empowered storage guidelines:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• For best freshness, keep apples and goat cheese separate until ready to serve if prepping ahead.
• Gently toss the salad again before serving to revive textures and reinvigorate flavors.
• Avoid freezing, as delicate sprouts and apples lose their charismatic crispness.

With proper storage, your salad remains lively and tempting for next-day enjoyment.

General Information

Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple is a gourmet, plant-forward celebration suitable for gatherings or everyday mealtimes. This dazzling salad works beautifully year-round—especially as a radiant side at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or spring celebrations. Brussels sprouts are full of nutrients and harmonize splendidly with sweet, tangy, and crunchy additions, offering an unbeatable boost to your mealtime repertoire.

FAQs

What’s the easiest way to shred Brussels sprouts without a food processor?

Achieve super-thin slices by using a sharp chef’s knife or handheld mandoline. Simply trim the stems, remove tough outer leaves, and slice carefully for gorgeous, even ribbons that create a magical texture throughout your salad.

Can I prepare this salad in advance for parties?

Yes! Prepare the salad base and dressing ahead, but wait to add apples and goat cheese until just before serving. This way, the flavors stay luscious and the colors pop with joyful brilliance.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To keep the salad completely dairy-free, substitute the goat cheese with a favorite vegan cheese crumble or simply omit it. The combination of tart cranberries, crisp apple, and toasted pecans remains exhilarating and robust!

Is this Brussels Sprouts Salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! Everyone can luxuriate in its thrill—there are no gluten-containing ingredients in this recipe.

How can I add extra protein for a heartier meal?

Transform your Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple into a main dish by topping with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or cubed tofu for satisfying, sustained fullness.

What to Serve With Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple

Perfectly versatile, this salad dazzles as a side for roasted poultry, grilled meats, or elegant vegetarian spreads. For a comforting pairing, try our Baked Zucchini with Mozzarella, Tomatoes and Garlic. If you crave a pasta twist, delight in our Tortellini Pasta Salad with Basil Vinaigrette. And for a festive finish, treat yourself to a sweet bite with Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling. Each dish amplifies the energetic, gourmet spirit of your table.

Conclusion

Experience the sublime joy of Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple—a feast that invigorates, comforts, and delights in equal measure. Whether shared at your next gathering or savored as a radiant weekday boost, this salad stands out with extraordinary texture, flavor, and cheer. Embrace this celebration of fresh ingredients and inspiring contrasts at every meal.

Nutritional Information

This Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Apple is rich in immune-boosting vitamin C, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Enjoy a nourishing balance of vibrant vegetables, wholesome fruits, and plant-based power—fuel for energy, wellness, and happiness all year long.

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