Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is not just a salad; it’s an experience! Perfect for any gathering, from casual dinners to festive holiday celebrations, this vibrant dish combines crunchy brussels sprouts with sweet pomegranate arils and delightful candied pecans. Its refreshing lemon dijon vinaigrette brings everything together, making each bite unforgettable. Easy to prepare ahead of time, this salad will surely impress your guests and become a staple at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors creates a deliciously balanced dish.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This salad is ideal for holidays, potlucks, or everyday meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the day before to save time on busy occasions.
• Healthy and Nutritious: A great source of vitamins and antioxidants from fresh ingredients.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your favorite fruits or nuts.

Tools and Preparation

To create this beautiful salad, some essential tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp Knife
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp Knife: Ensures clean cuts for the brussels sprouts and apples, enhancing presentation.
• Mixing Bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for smoothly blending the vinaigrette ingredients.

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 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 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons water

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

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped pecans with brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), vanilla extract, salt, and water.
2. Stir until the sugar melts and coats the pecans evenly.
3. Spread the pecan mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes until golden brown. Allow them to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

While your pecans are cooling:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Now it’s time to bring everything together!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine shaved brussels sprouts, pomegranate arils, diced honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, and shaved parmesan.
2. Drizzle in the prepared vinaigrette and toss gently until everything is well coated.
3. Finally, add in the cooled candied pecans and give it one last gentle toss.

Enjoy this vibrant Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans as a delightful addition to any meal!

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

This shaved Brussels sprout salad with pomegranate and candied pecans is a festive dish that’s perfect for any holiday gathering or special occasion. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it a standout choice on any table.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad can be served on its own as a refreshing light meal or lunch option, showcasing the crispness of the Brussels sprouts and sweetness of the pomegranate.

As a Side Salad

• Pair it with roasted chicken or turkey for a balanced meal. The flavors complement each other beautifully, enhancing your main dish.

For Potlucks or Gatherings

• Bring this salad to share at family gatherings or potlucks. Its eye-catching presentation and diverse textures will impress your friends and family.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Serve alongside traditional holiday dishes like roasted vegetables or stuffing. It adds brightness and freshness to richer foods, creating a well-rounded meal experience.

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

To elevate your shaved Brussels sprout salad, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh Brussels sprouts, pomegranates, and apples to ensure maximum flavor and crunch.
• Add Texture: Include toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch. This creates a satisfying contrast with the tender sprouts.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance but add the dressing just before serving to keep it crisp.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the acidity by altering lemon juice or vinegar levels according to your taste preference for a more personalized dressing.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding sliced almonds or feta cheese for an additional layer of flavor that complements the existing ingredients.

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

Pairing this shaved Brussels sprout salad with complementary side dishes can create a harmonious dining experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide comfort alongside the crunchy salad.
2. Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-infused chicken pairs well, enhancing the savory elements of your meal.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs adds nutrition while keeping your plate colorful and appealing.
4. Grilled Vegetable Platter: Charred seasonal vegetables bring out smoky flavors that contrast nicely with the freshness of the salad.
5. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy homemade cranberry sauce complements both sweet and savory aspects of the meal.
6. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Sweet acorn squash stuffed with grains can serve as an earthy counterpart to your vibrant salad.
7. Lemon Herb Couscous: Light, fluffy couscous seasoned with lemon zest offers an easy-to-make side that enhances any meal.
8. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy sweet potato wedges provide natural sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the salad’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans can be easy, but common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using unseasoned ingredients: Not seasoning your salad can lead to bland flavors. Always season each component, especially the dressing.

• Skipping the chilling time: Serving the salad immediately without letting it chill can result in less flavor. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes in the fridge before serving.

• Overcrowding the bowl: Adding too many ingredients at once can make it difficult to toss and mix properly. Keep your mixing manageable by adding ingredients in stages.

• Not adjusting sweetness: If you find your salad too sweet or too tart, taste as you go and adjust with more vinegar or maple syrup as needed. Balance is key!

• Neglecting texture variety: A great salad has a mix of textures. Ensure you have crunchy, chewy, and crisp elements for a delightful bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh ingredients like apples and pomegranates.
• If necessary, freeze only the candied pecans separately for up to 2 months.

Reheating Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread salad on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is in the Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans?

This salad includes shaved Brussels sprouts, pomegranate arils, honeycrisp apples, candied pecans, dried cranberries, shaved parmesan, and a lemon dijon vinaigrette.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare most components a day ahead. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

How do I store leftovers of this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep dressing separate if possible.

Can I customize this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like pears or nuts such as walnuts instead of pecans. You can also change up the dressing based on your taste preferences!

Is there a substitute for candied pecans?

Yes! If you prefer, you can use toasted pecans or any other nuts that you enjoy for added crunch without sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans is not just perfect for holiday gatherings but also versatile enough for everyday meals. The balance of flavors and textures makes it appealing to everyone. Try customizing it with your favorite fruits or nuts for a personal touch!