The holidays are the perfect time to try something fresh and vibrant, and this Festive Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate is just that. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The crisp Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with the burst of sweet-tart pomegranate seeds, creating a refreshing dish that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to impress.
Steps
- Thinly slice the Brussels sprouts using a mandoline for even results.
- Transfer the shaved sprouts into a medium-sized bowl.
- Add olive oil, lemon juice, pine nuts, cranberries, pecorino cheese, chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the bowl.
- Gently toss the mixture to ensure the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with the dressing and ingredients.
- Allow the salad to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, shaved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup grated pecorino cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
FAQ
- Can I prepare the Brussels sprout salad in advance?
- Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. The Brussels sprouts are sturdy enough to hold up even if you dress them in advance, making it an ideal dish for holiday parties or meal prep.
- What tools do I need to make the salad?
- A mandoline is helpful for thinly slicing the Brussels sprouts, but it’s not essential. You can also use a sharp knife if a mandoline is not available.
- How long does it take to make this salad?
- The salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy option for a side dish or a healthy lunch.
- What can I serve with the Brussels sprout salad?
- This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. You can try serving it alongside roasted meats or other vegetable dishes like balsamic or roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Can I substitute any ingredients in the salad?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts or cheeses. For example, try swapping pine nuts with almonds, or using Parmesan instead of pecorino cheese.
Tips
- Utilize a Mandoline for Uniform Slicing: To achieve evenly shaved Brussels sprouts, use a mandoline slicer. This tool ensures uniform thickness, which helps in consistent texture and flavor absorption.
- Prepare in Advance for Convenience: Take advantage of the Brussels sprouts’ sturdiness by dressing the salad hours before serving. This feature makes it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time for holiday gatherings.
- Balance Flavors with Simple Ingredients: Although the salad uses just a few ingredients, the combination of tart cranberries, salty pecorino cheese, and bright lemon juice creates a delightful flavor balance. Ensure you adjust salt and lemon juice to taste before serving.
- Enhance with Additional Olive Oil: Before serving, consider adding an extra drizzle of olive oil to enhance the salad’s richness and ensure all ingredients are well-coated.
Equipment
- Mandoline slicer – for thinly slicing the Brussels sprouts.
