If you’re after a vibrant, crunchy salad that bursts with fresh flavors and makes healthy eating feel like a treat, then this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe is exactly what you need. The beauty of this dish is how it combines the crisp, slightly nutty taste of shaved Brussels sprouts with the bright zing of citrus and the creamy indulgence of avocado and feta. Every bite dances between tart, sweet, and savory notes, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet wonderfully complementary, working together to create a salad that’s refreshing, textured, and full of flavor. Each element plays a crucial role—from the juicy citrus juices that lift the dressing, to the crunchy pistachios that add a satisfying contrast, every ingredient contributes something special.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that refreshes the palate.
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice: Brings a subtle sweetness and citrus depth.
- 1 tablespoon minced shallot: Provides a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dressing.
- 1 ½ teaspoons dijon mustard: Gives a tangy kick and helps emulsify the vinaigrette.
- 1 ½ teaspoons maple syrup: Balances acidity with natural sweetness.
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and smooth body to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the vibrant flavors.
- 12 ounces shaved Brussels sprouts: The star of the dish, offering a tender crunch and earthy base.
- ½ cup craisins: Introduces chewy bursts of sweetness that complement the bitterness of the sprouts.
- ½ cup roasted pistachios: Adds a satisfying crunch and slightly nutty flavor.
- ⅔ cup crumbled feta cheese: Offers creamy, salty richness that ties the salad together.
- 1 large avocado, diced: Delivers creamy texture and mild flavor for balance.
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
Start by whisking together fresh lemon juice, orange juice, minced shallot, dijon mustard, and maple syrup in a bowl. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking to create a smooth and emulsified citrus vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This vibrant dressing forms the heart of your salad, packing each bite with lively citrus notes.
Step 2: Shave the Brussels Sprouts
If your Brussels sprouts aren’t already shaved, slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Shaving them finely is essential because it transforms the dense sprouts into tender ribbons that soak up the vinaigrette beautifully, making the salad easy to toss and eat.
Step 3: Toss the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts with craisins, roasted pistachios, crumbled feta, and diced avocado. Pour the citrus vinaigrette over the mixture and toss everything gently until the salad is evenly coated. The contrasting textures—from creamy avocados to crunchy nuts and sweet dried fruit—create a wonderfully balanced bite.
How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra roasted pistachios or a light dusting of crumbled feta on top just before serving. For a little extra zest, you can add thin slices of fresh orange or lemon zest. These small touches elevate the presentation and bring extra bursts of flavor that delight the senses.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light, wholesome meal. It also works as a fresh side alongside warm grain bowls or roasted veggies, adding a crisp, refreshing contrast to heartier dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in a large wooden bowl for a rustic, inviting feel. Alternatively, consider plating it individually on bright ceramic dishes to highlight the colorful ingredients. You could also stuff it into pita pockets or serve it alongside crusty bread as a delightful lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 24 to 48 hours for optimal freshness because the avocado can brown, and the Brussels sprouts may soften. To keep everything crisp, you can also store the vinaigrette separately and toss just before serving.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing since the fresh vegetables and creamy avocado will lose their texture and become mushy. It’s best to prepare fresh or enjoy leftovers within a couple of days.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you want to warm it slightly, do so gently and briefly, but keep in mind it may affect the texture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I substitute other nuts for pistachios?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or pecans all work well and provide a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Is it okay to use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts?
Yes, pre-shaved or shredded Brussels sprouts save time and work perfectly in this salad. Just make sure they are fresh and crisp for the best texture.
Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the citrus vinaigrette up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Give it a good whisk before using, as the oil and juices may separate.
What can I do if I don’t have maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup are great substitutes that provide similar sweetness and help balance the acidity in the dressing.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Keep the dressing separate, and assemble just before eating to maintain the freshest texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes that you’ll want to keep coming back to. It’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying without feeling heavy. Whether you’re looking for a standout side, a light lunch, or a savvy way to get more veggies on your plate, this salad fits the bill perfectly. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
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Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad dressed with a tangy citrus vinaigrette. This salad combines crisp shaved Brussels sprouts with sweet craisins, crunchy roasted pistachios, creamy avocado, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon-orange vinaigrette for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Citrus Vinaigrette
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon minced shallot
- 1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ teaspoons maple syrup
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salad
- 12 ounces shaved Brussels sprouts
- ½ cup craisins
- ½ cup roasted pistachios
- ⅔ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 large avocado, diced
Instructions
- Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, fresh orange juice, minced shallot, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until well combined. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuing to whisk to emulsify the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, craisins, roasted pistachios, and crumbled feta cheese. Add the diced avocado gently, and pour the citrus vinaigrette over the salad. Toss everything together carefully to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline to shave Brussels sprouts thinly for the best texture.
- Roasting the pistachios enhances their flavor, but you can use raw if preferred.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup in the vinaigrette.
- This salad is best served fresh to avoid sogginess from the avocado and dressing.
- For a vegan version, omit feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
