Name: Crisp Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw for Fresh Fall Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Chopped Raw Pecans (Adds crunch and nuttiness; swap for walnuts if preferred.); 1 pound Brussels Sprouts (The crunchy base of the slaw; finely shredding is key for texture.); 3 tablespoons Green Onion (Provides a mild onion flavor; chives make for a great substitution.); 1 large Gala Apple (Offers sweetness and juiciness; any sweet apple variety, like Fuji, works too.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary (Enhances flavor with aromatic notes; try thyme or omit if not available.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (Infuses acidity and brightness; lime juice can be a zesty alternative.); 1 clove Garlic (Deepens the dressing's flavor; garlic powder is a good stand-in if needed.); 1 tablespoon Agave Nectar (or Honey) (Acts as a natural sweetener for the dressing; for a vegan option, use maple syrup.); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (Brings tanginess to the dressing; yellow mustard can also be used.); 1 pinch Kosher Salt (Elevates the overall flavor; exchange for sea salt if preferred.); 1 pinch Ground Pepper (Elevates the overall flavor.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the crisp autumn air seeping through the window, I couldn’t help but think about how flavors of the season come alive in this Crunchy Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw. Combining nutty pecans, sweet Gala apples, and the delightful crunch of shredded Brussels sprouts, this dish shouldn’t just be a side—it deserves the spotlight. Not only is this recipe incredibly quick to make, but it’s also packed with fresh ingredients that make it a healthy choice for any meal. With the added zing from a homemade lemon vinaigrette, you’ll create a vibrant salad that’s perfect for everything from light lunches to festive gatherings. Curious about how to whip up this fall-inspired slaw? Let’s dive into the details!

Why Is This Slaw a Must-Try?

Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet apples and earthy Brussels sprouts offers a taste sensation that’s both refreshing and hearty.

Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding dried cranberries or protein like chickpeas to customize the dish to your liking!

Healthful Ingredients: This slaw is not only gluten-free but also packed with nutrients—leaving you guilt-free as you indulge.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether served as a side or a main dish, this slaw is sure to be a hit at any gathering, similar to my Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken or other delightful salads like Apple Fritter Bread.

Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw Ingredients

For the Slaw

Chopped Raw Pecans – Adds crunch and nuttiness; swap for walnuts if preferred.
Brussels Sprouts – The crunchy base of the slaw; finely shredding is key for texture.
Green Onion – Provides a mild onion flavor; chives make for a great substitution.
Large Gala Apple – Offers sweetness and juiciness; any sweet apple variety, like Fuji, works too.
Fresh Rosemary – Enhances flavor with aromatic notes; try thyme or omit if not available.

For the Dressing

Fresh Lemon Juice – Infuses acidity and brightness; lime juice can be a zesty alternative.
Garlic Clove – Deepens the dressing’s flavor; garlic powder is a good stand-in if needed.
Agave Nectar (or Honey) – Acts as a natural sweetener for the dressing; for a vegan option, use maple syrup.
Dijon Mustard – Brings tanginess to the dressing; yellow mustard can also be used.
Kosher Salt & Ground Pepper – Elevates the overall flavor; exchange kosher salt for sea salt if preferred.

Now that you have all the fresh ingredients ready, let’s elevate our salad-making game with this delightful Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw

Step 1: Toast the Pecans
In a small skillet over medium heat, add chopped pecans. Cook for about 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye to avoid burning them. Once toasted, remove from the heat and let them cool on a plate while you prepare the rest of the Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends off 1 pound of fresh Brussels sprouts and remove any wilted outer leaves. Using a food processor, mandoline, or a sharp knife, shred the sprouts finely for optimal texture. Aim for thin pieces that resemble coleslaw to ensure they mix well with the other ingredients. Set the shredded Brussels sprouts aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Add the shredded Brussels sprouts to the mixing bowl along with sliced green onion, julienned Gala apple, and minced fresh rosemary. Toss all the ingredients gently until well combined. The Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw should have a harmonious mix of vibrant colors and textures, setting the stage for the flavorful dressing to come.

Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, agave nectar, and Dijon mustard. Add a pinch of kosher salt and ground pepper to enhance the flavors. Gradually drizzle in 1/4 cup of olive oil while continuously whisking until the dressing emulsifies and becomes smooth. This zesty dressing will perfectly complement the freshness of your slaw.

Step 5: Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together until the shredded Brussels sprouts and apples are well-coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. The Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw is now vibrant and ready to shine as a side or light main dish, bringing a fresh and delightful crunch to your table.

Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this slaw to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!

Dried Fruit: Add cranberries or cherries for a pop of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory Brussels sprouts.
Creamy Dressing: Try a Greek yogurt dressing instead for a rich, tangy twist that clings beautifully to the slaw.
Nut-Free: For a nut-free option, simply replace the pecans with sunflower seeds for delightful crunch without the allergens.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat that livens up the flavor profile.
Protein Boost: Toss in chickpeas or shredded chicken for a hearty, protein-rich meal that’s filling and nutritious.
Citrus Twist: Instead of lemon juice, use orange juice for a sweeter, fruitier dressing that adds a refreshing zing.
Savory Herbs: Substitute fresh rosemary with fresh dill for a different herbaceous note that can brighten the entire dish.
Whole Grain: Serve it on a bed of quinoa or farro for a wholesome grain base that adds texture and nutrition, making it a complete meal.

The beauty of this Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw lies in its adaptability. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or just looking for a fresh side, you’re bound to create something special! And if you’re ever in the mood for another crowd-pleaser, don’t forget to check out my Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken or try the sweet, comforting flavors of Apple Fritter Bread. Enjoy customizing!

Expert Tips for Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw

Effortless Shredding: Use a food processor for quick and uniform shredding of Brussels sprouts, ensuring a perfect texture without the hassle.
Digestive Ease: If raw Brussels sprouts cause discomfort, consider briefly sautéing them for a gentler approach, maintaining their delightful crunch.
Dressing Timing: Dress the salad right before serving to keep the Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw fresh, avoiding wilting of the greens.
Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients like dried cranberries or proteins, which can elevate the dish even further.
Versatile Sweeteners: For a vegan approach, substitute honey with maple syrup in the dressing; it retains the sweetness while keeping it plant-based.

How to Store and Freeze Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw

Fridge: The slaw can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for this slaw due to the apple and Brussels sprouts’ textures, if necessary, you could freeze the un-dressed slaw for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: If you have leftover dressed slaw, try a quick sauté to warm it up, but be gentle to preserve the crunch.

Additional Tip: Always dress your Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw right before serving to ensure it stays crisp and vibrant!

What to Serve with Crunchy Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw?

This vibrant slaw will grace your table beautifully, but what else should you serve to create the perfect meal?

Grilled Chicken: This juicy protein pairs perfectly with the slaw’s crunch, enhancing the dining experience with a wonderful contrast of flavors.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the tartness of the slaw and adds a tender, buttery texture to your meal.
Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed grain that brings additional texture and heartiness, making your meal nourishing and filling.
Herbed Focaccia: Soft and fragrant, this bread is an ideal companion to scoop up slaw and enjoy with every bite of savory goodness.
Savory Pumpkin Soup: The warm, creamy soup’s rich flavors beautifully balance the fresh crunch of the slaw, evoking the comfort of fall.
Light White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc offers citrus notes that echo the vinaigrette in the slaw, perfectly refreshing your palate.
Cranberry Almond Energy Bites: For a dessert that ties in the flavors of the slaw, these bites provide a sweet end without overwhelming your taste buds.

Elevate your dining experience with these delightful accompaniments for your Crunchy Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw are a dream for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the shredded Brussels sprouts and slice the apples up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to store the apples in a bowl of water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Additionally, you can whisk the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your slaw, simply toss everything together with the dressing right before serving for that crisp, refreshing texture. This way, you’ll have a delicious, vibrant salad that’s just as tasty as if you made it fresh, all while saving precious time during busy weeknights!

Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, vibrant green heads that are tightly packed. Avoid those with yellowing leaves or dark spots all over, as these are signs of overripeness. Fresh Brussels sprouts should feel heavy for their size and have no wilted or mushy leaves.

What’s the best way to store leftover Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw?
Very! Store your slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, as mixed slaw can wilt quicker. If stored correctly, you’ll still get that delightful crunch!

Can I freeze Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw?
While freezing isn’t ideal for this fresh slaw due to potential texture changes in the apples and sprouts, if you absolutely need to freeze it, you can do so without dressing. Place the un-dressed slaw in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 1 month. To serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and toss it with fresh dressing before enjoying.

What should I do if the Brussels sprouts are too crunchy or tough?
Ah, no worries! If raw Brussels sprouts feel too tough, you have a couple of options. Lightly sauté them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to soften them up without losing that lovely crunch. Alternatively, you can massage the shredded sprouts with a little salt and lemon juice for a more tender texture before mixing them with the other ingredients.

Is this slaw suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! The ingredients in Apple & Brussels Sprouts Slaw are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any dressing components, like mustard or sweeteners, are certified gluten-free if you are preparing it for someone with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance. Enjoy this fresh dish without any worries!

Can I add other ingredients to this slaw?
The more the merrier! You can certainly customize your slaw by adding ingredients like dried cranberries for sweetness, chickpeas for added protein, or even some cheese for creaminess. Experimenting is a wonderful way to keep the dish exciting and personal!