Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I tossed the vibrant ingredients together for my latest culinary experiment, I was struck by how joyfully refreshing this Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apples, Dates, and Hazelnuts truly is. Perfect for those crisp autumn days, this salad effortlessly combines audacious flavors and textures, making it an instant favorite for lunch or as a delightful side dish at your next gathering. It’s a simple recipe that packs in nutrition while also being a total crowd-pleaser—who knew healthy could taste this good? Not only does this salad elevate seasonal produce, but it also comes together in no time, allowing you to savor the moment rather than drown in kitchen chaos. Curious about how to transform those humble Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping dish? Let’s dive in! Why is this Brussels Sprouts Salad a must-try? Flavor Explosion: The blend of slightly bitter Brussels sprouts with sweet apples and chewy dates delivers a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Nutty Crunch: Toasted hazelnuts add the perfect crunch, making every bite satisfying and memorable. Quick & Simple: With minimal prep time, this salad is a breeze to whip up, freeing you to focus on enjoying your meal. Versatile Delight: Serve it as a hearty side at holiday dinners or as a light lunch on its own—it’s delicious no matter how you dress it up! Healthful Choice: Packed with fiber and vitamins, this dish not only tastes good but also nourishes your body. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the dressing and Brussels sprouts in advance for an effortless meal solution any day of the week. You can pair it beautifully with a Broccoli Salad Bacon for a more extensive spread! Brussels Sprouts Salad Ingredients Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful Brussels Sprouts Salad! For the Salad Brussels Sprouts – Shredded or thinly sliced; using fresh sprouts ensures the best texture. Honey Crisp Apple – Offers a balance of sweetness and tartness; substitute with Granny Smith for a bolder tang. Medjool Dates – Add natural sweetness and a chewy texture; try dried cranberries or cherries as a lovely alternative. Toasted Hazelnuts – Provide a satisfying crunch; feel free to swap with almonds or omit for a nut-free version. Parmesan Cheese – Brings salty depth to the salad; for a vegan option, simply leave it out. For the Dressing Maple Syrup – Acts as a sweetener for your dressing; honey or agave syrup also work well! Shallot – Adds a subtle aromatic flavor; finely diced onion can be used in its place. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Infuses richness into the dressing; any light oil can be substituted if needed. Lemon Juice – Provides a bright acidity for balance; always opt for fresh juice when possible. Dijon Mustard – Gives the dressing a tangy kick; consider using grainy mustard for a unique twist. Kosher Salt, Chili Flakes, Ground Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the overall flavor of your Brussels Sprouts Salad. Feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste, creating a salad that’s uniquely yours! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brussels Sprouts Salad Step 1: Toast Hazelnuts Begin by preheating a skillet over medium heat. Add the hazelnuts and toast them for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Alternatively, spread them on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Once toasted, cool them slightly, then chop coarsely and set aside for your Brussels Sprouts Salad. Step 2: Make Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, one finely minced shallot, 6 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, and the juice of one lemon. Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, a pinch of kosher salt, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and freshly ground pepper to taste. Whisk until the mixture is well combined, creating a tangy dressing that will perfectly complement the flavors in your Brussels Sprouts Salad. Step 3: Prepare Salad Base In a large salad bowl, combine shredded or thinly sliced Brussels sprouts, which should visually appear light green and crisp. Next, add the diced Honey Crisp apple for sweetness, chopped Medjool dates for chewiness, and the toasted hazelnuts for a delightful crunch. Toss gently to mix the ingredients without bruising the Brussels sprouts, creating your colorful salad base ready for dressing. Step 4: Assemble Salad Now, drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Using salad tongs or a spoon, toss everything together meticulously, ensuring each ingredient is coated with the tangy goodness of the dressing. The Brussels Sprouts Salad should look vibrant and well-mixed, inviting you to dive in and enjoy the flavors. Step 5: Serve or Store Serve your Brussels Sprouts Salad immediately for the freshest taste, or allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. If you’re not serving it right away, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1–3 days. Just remember to give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and keep it looking lively! How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprouts Salad Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; the flavors will meld and deepen, making it even tastier the next day. Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing the salad due to the fresh ingredients; freezing can result in a soggy texture when thawed. Reheating: If you must reheat leftovers, do so gently in a pan over low heat, stirring to combine and avoid overcooking the components. Serving Fresh: For optimal taste and texture, enjoy Brussels Sprouts Salad fresh, especially with vibrant seasonal ingredients! Make Ahead Options This Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apples, Dates & Hazelnuts is a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the dressing up to 2 days in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can shred the Brussels sprouts and chop the apples (to prevent browning, toss them with a little lemon juice) and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine all the ingredients, drizzle with the dressing, and toss for a delicious salad that’s just as satisfying and vibrant as if made fresh! What to Serve with Brussels Sprouts Salad This delightful salad is the perfect centerpiece for a memorable meal, and the accompaniments you choose can elevate the experience even further. Roasted Chicken: Juicy, flavorful roasted chicken pairs beautifully, enhancing the salad’s textures and providing protein for a well-rounded meal. Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy, nutty side adds heartiness and a wholesome touch, seamlessly balancing the bright flavors of the salad. Crispy Bacon: For those who enjoy a savory twist, crispy bacon sprinkled over adds a smoky crunch that contrasts deliciously with the sweetness of the salad. Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread offers a satisfying texture that complements the freshness of the salad, perfect for mopping up any dressing! Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio provides a refreshing contrast, accentuating the vibrant flavors of the salad while enhancing your dining experience. Pumpkin Pie Bars: For dessert, these sweet and spiced bars are a delightful ending; their creamy filling beautifully contrasts with the crispness of the salad, bringing a harmonious close to your meal. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy, buttery sweet potato mash offers a comforting counterpoint to the crunchy salad, making every bite a delightful adventure in flavor. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Bright, charred veggies add smokiness and a touch of summer, bringing a colorful and healthy element that ties everything together beautifully. Expert Tips for Brussels Sprouts Salad • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh Brussels sprouts and seasonal apples to maximize flavor and texture in your Brussels Sprouts Salad. • Dressing Time: Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes after tossing with dressing; this enhances the flavors by letting the sprouts marinate slightly. • Nut Alternatives: If you have nut allergies, consider using toasted pumpkin seeds instead of hazelnuts for a satisfying crunch without compromising flavor. • Prep Ahead: Preparing the dressing and the Brussels sprouts the day before can save time and ensure a quick assembly for last-minute gatherings. • Taste Balance: Adjust the dressing to your preference; if it’s too tangy, add a touch more maple syrup for sweetness or a pinch more salt for balance. • Serving Suggestions: Serve this salad as a side dish with roasted meats or as a hearty vegetarian main by topping it with grilled chicken or chickpeas. Brussels Sprouts Salad: Flavorful Twists and Adaptations Feel free to experiment with your Brussels Sprouts Salad to suit your palate or dietary needs; let your creativity shine! Dairy-Free: Omit the Parmesan cheese for a delightfully light version that everyone can enjoy. Your salad will still burst with flavor! Nut-Free: Swap hazelnuts for sunflower seeds to maintain that satisfying crunch without any nuts. Crunchy and delightful, just as tasty! Fruit Swap: Use pears instead of apples for a sweet, juicy alternative that complements the salad beautifully. This twist adds a lovely seasonal touch! Sweetness Variation: If you prefer more natural sweetness, try swapping maple syrup for agave syrup in the dressing. It’s a good way to customize the flavor profile. Hearty Addition: Add roasted chickpeas for a protein boost, turning your salad into a filling meal. They will also offer a lovely crispy texture! Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, incorporate some thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dressing. It adds an exciting zing! Whole Grain Add: Toss in cooked quinoa or farro for extra texture and a boost of whole grains, making your salad even more satisfying. Savory Twist: Consider adding crumbled feta cheese for a salty touch that elevates the whole salad with Mediterranean flavors. It’s a delightful addition! For further inspiration, you might also explore dishes like a vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad or a delicious Cucumber Strawberry Salad to balance flavors in your meal! Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apples, Dates & Hazelnuts Recipe FAQs How do I choose fresh Brussels sprouts? Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for bright green, firm sprouts that are tightly packed and free from dark spots or blemishes. The outer leaves should be intact, and the sprouts should feel heavy for their size. A good rule of thumb is to choose smaller ones for a sweeter flavor, as larger ones can sometimes be a bit bitter. What’s the best way to store leftover Brussels Sprouts Salad? To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious. Just remember to give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing. Can I freeze Brussels Sprouts Salad? It’s best to avoid freezing this salad because the raw Brussels sprouts and fresh apples can turn mushy when thawed, which might negatively affect texture and taste. If you have leftover components like the toasted hazelnuts or dressing, you can freeze those separately. For the dressing, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; just give it a good whisk after thawing to restore the texture. What if my Brussels sprouts are bitter? Very! If you find that your Brussels sprouts are slightly bitter, there are a couple of tricks to balance the flavor. Try soaking them in the dressing for about 10-15 minutes before serving, as this will help mellow out the bitterness. You can also add a touch more maple syrup or honey to the dressing, creating a sweeter balance that complements the sprouts. Is this salad suitable for my dietary restrictions? Absolutely! This Brussels Sprouts Salad is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese. If you’re concerned about nut allergies, you can swap the hazelnuts with toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without compromising flavor. Always double-check your ingredient labels, especially with store-bought items, to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Can I prepare any components of the salad in advance? Certainly! The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, which is super convenient. Additionally, feel free to shred the Brussels sprouts a day in advance and keep them in an airtight container to save time on assembly. Just remember to toss everything together right before serving for the freshest taste! Brussels Sprouts Salad: Crunchy Goodness with Apples & Dates This Brussels Sprouts Salad combines vibrant ingredients like apples and dates, delivering a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for any meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: Best Recipe IdeasCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad4 cups Brussels Sprouts Shredded or thinly sliced1 medium Honey Crisp Apple Substitute with Granny Smith if desired1 cup Medjool Dates Chopped1/2 cup Toasted Hazelnuts Chopped1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional for vegan optionFor the Dressing2 tablespoons Maple Syrup Can substitute with honey or agave syrup1 small Shallot Finely minced6 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Can substitute with any light oil1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Optional for extra flavor1 pinch Kosher Salt To taste1 pinch Chili Flakes To taste1 pinch Ground Pepper To taste Equipment SkilletLarge salad bowlsmall bowlWhisksalad tongs Method Toast HazelnutsPreheat a skillet over medium heat. Add hazelnuts and toast for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly browned and fragrant.Alternatively, spread hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Cool and chop coarsely.Make DressingIn a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, finely minced shallot, olive oil, and lemon juice. Add Dijon mustard, kosher salt, chili flakes, and pepper; whisk until well combined.Prepare Salad BaseIn a large salad bowl, combine shredded Brussels sprouts, diced Honey Crisp apple, chopped Medjool dates, and toasted hazelnuts. Toss gently to mix.Assemble SaladDrizzle the homemade dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together, ensuring each ingredient is well coated with the dressing.Serve or StoreServe immediately or let sit for 10–15 minutes to enhance flavors. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesFor maximum flavor, allow the salad to sit after tossing with the dressing. Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
