Irresistible Brussels Sprout, Kale & Apple Salad Recipe

This Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon is a vibrant dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. With its crunchy textures and savory notes, it makes a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving table.

Packed with nutrient-dense vegetables and just the right amount of indulgence from bacon and cheese, this salad is both healthy and incredibly delicious. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for novice cooks looking to impress their guests.

Ingredients for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon

Here is what you will need to make this delicious Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon:

1 lb Brussels sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts add a crisp texture that is essential for this salad.

1 large bunch kale (any variety): Kale brings vibrant color and nutrient density to the mix.

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided): Olive oil enhances flavor and helps in dressing the salad.

Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning elevates all the ingredients in the salad.

1 Granny Smith apple (diced or julienned; peeling optional): The tartness of Granny Smith apples balances the richness of bacon.

⅓ cup pecans (toasted and roughly chopped): Pecans add crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.

¼ cup dried cranberries: Dried cranberries contribute a sweet contrast to the savory elements.

6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (diced): Sharp cheddar adds depth and creaminess to each bite.

5 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled; bacon fat reserved): Bacon infuses smoky flavor throughout the dish.

1 small shallot (minced): Shallots provide subtle onion flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This brightens up the flavors in the vinaigrette dressing.

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Mustard adds tanginess that complements the sweetness of apples and cranberries.

2 teaspoons honey: Honey rounds out the vinaigrette with its natural sweetness.

1 tablespoon reserved bacon fat (warmed up to liquify if solid): Using bacon fat enhances flavor while keeping things cohesive.

How to Make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon:

Step 1: Prepare Your Greens Start by cleaning your Brussels sprouts thoroughly, removing any brown or yellow leaves before slicing or shaving them as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer works wonders here but a sharp knife will do if you don’t have one on hand.

Step 2: Chop the Kale Next, remove the tough stems from your kale leaves and stack them together before rolling them up tightly like a cigar. Slice through them to create thin ribbons, then add these greens to your bowl containing the sliced Brussels sprouts.

Step 3: Massage Your Greens Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over your greens and season generously with salt and pepper. Use your hands to massage the leaves until they are fully coated in oil; this process not only enhances flavor but also softens their texture.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients Now it’s time to add in your diced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon into your bowl of greens for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Step 5: Whisk Together Vinaigrette In a separate small bowl, whisk together minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey along with salt and pepper until combined. Slowly stream in the remaining olive oil along with warmed bacon fat while whisking until emulsified; adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together Pour your freshly made vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss everything together until well combined before serving immediately for optimal freshness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful fall salad!

Perfecting Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon Cooking Process

To create the ultimate Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon, efficiency is key. Prepping all ingredients ahead of time not only saves you from last-minute chaos but also ensures that each element is fresh and flavorful. This approach allows for a smooth assembly and a delightful dining experience.

Add Your Touch to Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon

Feel free to customize your Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon by adding seasonal fruits like pears or substituting nuts with seeds for a different texture. You can also experiment with various cheeses or add roasted vegetables for extra depth of flavor.

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Storing and Reheating Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon

For optimal freshness, store any leftover Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days, but be mindful that the greens may wilt over time. Avoid reheating as salads are best enjoyed fresh; instead, consider serving it cold.

As I prepared this dish one Thanksgiving, I was reminded of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with warmth and laughter. Sharing this vibrant salad recipe brings back fond memories of family gatherings around the dinner table.

FAQs About Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon

What is Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon?

Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. This salad features thinly sliced Brussels sprouts and fresh kale tossed together with crisp apples, crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. The combination creates a balanced dish that is both indulgent and nutritious.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! To make the Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad vegan-friendly, you can omit the bacon and cheese or replace them with plant-based alternatives. Use coconut bacon or smoked tempeh for a savory crunch while nutritional yeast or cashew cheese can give you that cheesy flavor without dairy. The dressing can be made vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup.

How can I make this salad gluten-free?

The Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad is naturally gluten-free as none of the core ingredients contain gluten. However, always double-check labels on any packaged items like dried cranberries or mustard to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients. This makes it an excellent option for those following a gluten-free diet.

What else can I serve with this salad?

This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with various main dishes like roasted turkey or grilled chicken during holiday feasts. For a more casual meal, serve it alongside sandwiches or wraps for lunch. Its bright flavors also complement hearty soups during colder months making it a go-to side dish year-round.

Conclusion for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon

In conclusion, the Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is not just another side dish; it’s an experience bursting with flavors and textures that embody fall’s essence. With its balance of nutritious greens and indulgent toppings like bacon and cheese, this salad will elevate your Thanksgiving table and impress your guests effortlessly. Enjoy making it as much as savoring every bite!

Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon

A vibrant dish that celebrates the flavors of fall with crunchy textures and savory notes, perfect for Thanksgiving.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts Fresh Brussels sprouts add a crisp texture.
• 1 large bunch kale Any variety brings vibrant color and nutrient density.
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Divided, enhances flavor and helps in dressing.
• to taste salt Seasoning elevates all ingredients.
• to taste pepper Seasoning elevates all ingredients.
• 1 Granny Smith apple Diced or julienned; peeling optional.
• ⅓ cup pecans Toasted and roughly chopped for crunch.
• ¼ cup dried cranberries Contributes a sweet contrast.
• 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese Diced for depth and creaminess.
• 5 strips bacon Cooked and crumbled; bacon fat reserved.
• 1 small shallot Minced for subtle onion flavor.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Brightens up the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Adds tanginess.
• 2 teaspoons honey Rounds out the vinaigrette.
• 1 tablespoon reserved bacon fat Warmed up to liquify if solid.

Method

 

1. Prepare Your Greens: Clean Brussels sprouts thoroughly, removing any brown or yellow leaves before slicing or shaving them thinly.
2. Chop the Kale: Remove tough stems from kale leaves, stack them, roll tightly, and slice into thin ribbons.
3. Massage Your Greens: Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over greens, season with salt and pepper, and massage until coated.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Mix in diced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
5. Whisk Together Vinaigrette: In a bowl, whisk shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly add remaining olive oil and warmed bacon fat until emulsified.
6. Combine Everything Together: Pour vinaigrette over salad mixture and toss until well combined before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

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