Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. With fresh shredded kale, tender Brussels sprouts, sweet cranberries, and crunchy almonds, this salad is not only healthy but also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it at a family gathering, a holiday feast, or as a weekday lunch, its vibrant colors and unique taste will shine through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This salad uses fresh produce and flavorful ingredients that offer a burst of nutrition.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this salad in under 30 minutes!
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of tangy lemon juice and nutty cheese makes each bite satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for weekly meal prep.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a light main course.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Gathering these will streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Baking sheet
• Mason jar
• Mortar and pestle (or knife)
• Large mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Shreds vegetables quickly and evenly, saving time on prep.
• Mason jar: Perfect for shaking up dressings to ensure every ingredient is mixed well.
• Mortar and pestle: Helps to release the flavors of garlic and spices effectively.

Ingredients

This kale and Brussels sprout salad is filled with shredded kale and sprouts, cranberries, marinated onions, almonds and pecorino cheese. It’s simple, fresh, and sure to be a family favorite!

For the Dressing

• 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 yellow onion (super thinly sliced)

For the Salad

• 1 large bunch of Lacinato kale (washed and de-stemmed)
• 1 lb Brussels sprouts
• Juice of 2 lemons
• ⅔ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Pinch of nutmeg
• ¾ cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese (fresh Parmesan will work too)
• ¼ cup almonds (sliced or chopped)

How to Make Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the sliced almonds on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 5–8 minutes until they turn golden brown. Stir them halfway through to ensure even toasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a mortar and pestle, combine minced garlic with sea salt and black pepper. Muddle these together until well blended. Transfer this mixture into a mason jar. Add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and thinly sliced onion. Shake well to combine the dressing ingredients. Let this marinate while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Step 3: Shred Your Greens

Using a food processor fitted with a slicing blade, shred the Brussels sprouts first. Next, shred the Lacinato kale until both greens are finely sliced. If you don’t have a food processor, chop them by hand into thin strips.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, pour lemon juice over the shredded kale and Brussels sprouts. Sprinkle with sea salt and massage the mixture with clean hands for about two minutes until it softens slightly. Add dried cranberries, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, then pour your prepared dressing over everything. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Finish Up

Finally, add Pecorino cheese to the salad mix; stir again gently until everything is well coated. Top your salad with toasted almonds before serving.

Enjoy right away or let it chill in the fridge for a bit to enhance those flavors!

How to Serve Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

This kale and Brussels sprout salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it as a main dish or a side, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

As a Main Dish

• Top with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.
• Pair with quinoa or farro for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside whole grain bread for a satisfying lunch.

As a Side Salad

• Accompany roasted meats like chicken or pork.
• Serve alongside fish dishes like salmon or trout for balanced flavors.
• Pair with vegetarian entrees such as stuffed peppers or lentil stew.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare in advance and store in jars for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.
• Add nuts right before serving to keep them crunchy.

Garnished with Extra Ingredients

• Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Include fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness.

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How to Perfect Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

To make the best kale and Brussels sprout salad, follow these tips that will elevate your dish.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Select vibrant kale and firm Brussels sprouts for the best taste and texture.
• Massage the kale: This softens the leaves, making them more palatable and flavorful by breaking down tough fibers.
• Make it ahead: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for a bit helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with dressings: While this recipe has a delicious dressing, try other vinaigrettes to find your favorite combination.
• Add seasonal toppings: Incorporate fruits like apples or pears during fall, or berries in spring for added sweetness and color.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak salt, pepper, or lemon juice based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Pairing your kale and Brussels sprout salad with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, seasoned with herbs and garlic.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty grain dish cooked with vegetables, adding texture and nutrition to your meal.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with lemon juice makes a bright side.
4. Honey-Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots roasted until tender bring balance to savory dishes.
5. Creamy Hummus with Pita Chips: A smooth dip perfect for scooping up while enjoying your salad.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with grains, beans, or cheese provide extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring the freshness of ingredients: Always use fresh kale and Brussels sprouts. Wilted greens can ruin the salad’s taste and texture.
• Skipping the massaging step: Failing to massage the kale makes it tough and bitter. Take a moment to gently massage the leaves for a more enjoyable texture.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed to avoid overpowering the fresh flavors.
• Not letting flavors meld: Serving immediately after preparation may miss out on flavor development. Allow your salad to marinate for at least 15 minutes in the fridge for a tastier dish.
• Forgetting about seasoning: Neglecting to season your salad can lead to blandness. Remember to add salt and pepper throughout the process for balanced flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

• While freezing is not recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze any leftover dressing separately.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place salad in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about preparing Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad. Here are some frequently asked questions:

Can I prepare this Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components ahead of time but wait until serving to mix them together. This keeps everything fresh.

What variations can I try with this Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad?

You can customize it by adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Other nuts or seeds also work well for additional crunch.

How do I keep my Kale from getting soggy?

Massage the kale with lemon juice before adding other ingredients. This helps soften it while maintaining its structure without becoming soggy.

Is this Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings or proteins to fit your preferences. Try this refreshing salad today; it’s perfect for meals or gatherings!