Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

If you’re looking for a dish that will steal the show at your next gathering, then this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is just what you need! This salad is not only packed with vibrant flavors but also offers a delightful crunch that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive family feasts, ensuring you’ll have something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this salad so special? It brings together the earthy taste of shaved Brussels sprouts with the sweet burst of pomegranate arils and the crunch of candied pecans. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why it has gone viral on all our social media platforms!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a bit of chopping and mixing, this salad comes together quickly—perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mix of textures and flavors, making it a hit at any table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this salad in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day.
• Seasonal Ingredients: This dish highlights fresh produce that’s easy to find during the holidays, elevating your meal with seasonal flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Each one plays a crucial role in creating the vibrant flavors and textures that make this salad a standout. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

• 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 cheese

For the Vinaigrette

• 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

Variations

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Add More Crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an extra layer of texture.
• Switch Up the Fruit: Try using diced pears or sliced grapes instead of apples for a different fruity twist.
• Make It Vegan: Simply omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative to keep this dish plant-based.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes in your dressing.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Pecans

Start by making those irresistible candied pecans! In a pan over medium heat, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, vanilla extract, and water. Stir until everything is well-coated and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. This step adds an incredible sweetness and crunch that will elevate your salad.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients creates a bright vinaigrette that ties all your flavors together beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, combine shaved Brussels sprouts, pomegranate arils, diced honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, toasted pecans (or candied if preferred), and shaved cheese. Drizzle your freshly made vinaigrette over everything. Toss gently to ensure every bite is coated in deliciousness!

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Transfer your beautiful salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Enjoy it right away or let it chill in the fridge for about half an hour to let those flavors mingle even more. Either way, it’s sure to impress!

Now you’re ready to delight friends and family with this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans! It’s truly a dish that brings people together—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

This salad is sure to impress your guests, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality produce. The vibrant flavors of fresh Brussels sprouts and pomegranate arils will shine through and elevate your salad.
• Prep Ahead: You can shave the Brussels sprouts and prepare the vinaigrette a day in advance. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey in the dressing. This personal touch can make the dish uniquely yours.
• Experiment with Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try substituting walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Each nut brings its own character to the salad!
• Add Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, consider adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They add a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the other ingredients.

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

Presentation is key when it comes to salads! Here are some delightful ways to serve this vibrant dish that will make it even more appealing.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or mint adds a burst of freshness and color that brightens up the dish.
• Additional Pomegranate Arils: Scatter a few extra pomegranate arils on top just before serving for an eye-catching pop of color and juicy sweetness.
• Lemon Zest: A light grating of lemon zest over the salad enhances its citrusy notes and adds an aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These caramelized bites bring warmth and sweetness, making them a comforting companion to the salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf with herbs provides a hearty base that complements the lightness of the salad while adding protein.
• Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs creates a satisfying meal when paired with this refreshing salad, catering to those looking for more protein.
• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread offers a lovely contrast in texture and makes for a cozy addition to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunch of the ingredients.

Freezing

• While this salad is best fresh, you can freeze certain components.
• If you want to freeze, consider freezing the candied pecans separately.
• Do not freeze the dressed salad, as it may become soggy once thawed.

Reheating

• If you’ve stored leftovers, allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
• If necessary, gently toss with a little extra lemon juice or olive oil to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious salad.

Can I make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to ensure everything stays fresh and crunchy.

What can I substitute for candied pecans in Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans?

If you prefer, you can use toasted pecans or other nuts like walnuts or almonds. You can also make your own quick candied nuts using maple syrup and spices for added flavor.

How do I keep my Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, always dress your salad just before serving. Store any leftover dressing separately and toss it in right before enjoying!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans as much as I do! It’s a beautiful dish that brings together delightful flavors and textures—perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress. Happy cooking!