Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is a showstopper for any occasion! Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a casual lunch, this vibrant salad brings together the crunchy texture of shaved Brussels sprouts, the sweetness of pomegranate arils, and the delightful crunch of candied pecans. With its refreshing lemon dijon vinaigrette, it’s an easy-to-make dish that can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet pomegranate arils and savory pecans creates a delightful balance.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead of gatherings, saving you stress on busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer or side dish for any meal or event.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and fruits.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious salad, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your Brussels sprouts and apples, enhancing presentation.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending your vinaigrette smoothly, ensuring all flavors are evenly distributed.

Ingredients

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 parmesan

For the Lemon Dijon 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 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4-1/2 tsp cayenne
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tbsp water

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

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Pecans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped pecans with brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, salt, and water. Mix until well coated.
3. Spread the pecan mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. Allow to cool.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar:
1. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk until well emulsified or seal jar and shake vigorously.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add shaved Brussels sprouts, pomegranate arils, diced honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, and shaved parmesan.
2. Pour vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
3. Top with candied pecans before serving.

This vibrant salad is sure to impress your guests while being easy to prepare! Enjoy your delicious Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans at your next gathering!

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

This shaved Brussels sprout salad with pomegranate and candied pecans is a vibrant dish that shines on any table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your salad experience.

As a Festive Starter

• Serve small portions in individual bowls to kick off holiday meals.
• Pair with a light soup for a delightful first course.

Accompanying Main Dishes

• This salad complements roasted chicken or turkey beautifully, adding a fresh crunch.
• Consider it alongside grilled lamb for an elegant touch.

In a Buffet Style

• Display the salad in a large bowl at gatherings, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Provide additional toppings like extra nuts or cheese on the side for customization.

For Meal Prep

• Make ahead and store in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
• Layer the ingredients in jars, keeping dressing separate until ready to eat.

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

Perfecting this salad will ensure every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts and ripe pomegranates make all the difference in taste and texture.
• Toast the Nuts: Lightly toast pecans before adding them to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.
• Dress Just Before Serving: To keep the salad crisp, add the vinaigrette right before serving.
• Experiment with Fruits: Try incorporating different seasonal fruits like pears or mandarin oranges for variety.
• Adjust Sweetness: Modify the sweetness of your vinaigrette based on personal preference by adjusting maple syrup or honey levels.

Best Side Dishes for Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

Pairing side dishes with this shaved Brussels sprout salad can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the tangy flavors of the salad perfectly. Toss with olive oil and spices before roasting until tender.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and makes for a hearty side. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth for added flavor.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings an earthy element that balances well with bright pomegranate.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair nicely with salads, providing comfort alongside freshness.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or vegetables offer a satisfying vegetarian option that harmonizes well.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs creates a light side that enhances any meal without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Preparation: Not properly preparing the Brussels sprouts can lead to tough textures. Ensure you shave them thinly for best results.
• Bold Overlooking Seasoning: Skipping the seasoning can make your salad bland. Don’t forget salt and pepper in both the salad and dressing.
• Bold Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using old or wilted produce can ruin the dish. Always opt for fresh pomegranate arils and crisp apples.
• Bold Incorrect Storage: Improper storage can affect freshness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal taste.
• Bold Skipping the Vinaigrette: Forgetting the dressing means missing out on flavor. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and dijon mustard for a zesty kick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for up to 3 days.

Freezing Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

• Not recommended due to texture changes.
• Fresh ingredients do not freeze well.

Reheating Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place salad on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans.

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

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge without adding dressing until serving.

What are some variations for this salad?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or almonds, swap honeycrisp apples for pears, or include different dried fruits like apricots.

How long does this salad last?

The Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly.

Is it possible to serve this salad warm?

Yes! You can lightly sauté the shaved Brussels sprouts before mixing them with other ingredients for a warm variation.

Final Thoughts

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests. Customize it by adding your favorite nuts or fruits to make it uniquely yours!