Shaved Brussels sprouts salad with cranberries and almonds is a bright, crisp, and flavorful salad that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or as a healthy side dish. This salad combines thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and a zesty Dijon vinaigrette for a dish that’s fresh, satisfying, and packed with texture. The nuttiness of the Brussels sprouts pairs wonderfully with the sweet cranberries and crunchy almonds, making this salad a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to make this vibrant salad, with tips for prepping Brussels sprouts, optional mix-ins, and pairing ideas.

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1. Ingredients for Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries and Almonds

Here’s what you’ll need to make this crunchy, tangy salad:

For the Salad:

• Brussels Sprouts – 1 lb, ends trimmed and thinly sliced
• Dried Cranberries – 1/2 cup
• Sliced Almonds – 1/3 cup, toasted
• Parmesan Cheese – 1/4 cup, shaved or grated (optional, for added richness)

For the Dijon Vinaigrette:

• Olive Oil – 1/4 cup
• Apple Cider Vinegar – 2 tablespoons
• Dijon Mustard – 1 teaspoon
• Maple Syrup or Honey – 1 teaspoon (for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and Black Pepper – to taste

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2. Step-by-Step Instructions for Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries and Almonds

Follow these simple steps to make a fresh and flavorful Brussels sprouts salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and pat them dry.
2. Trim off the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves.
3. Thinly slice the Brussels sprouts with a sharp knife or use a food processor fitted with the slicing attachment to shave them into fine pieces.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

1. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Dijon Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, and toasted almonds.
2. Drizzle the Dijon vinaigrette over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan on top (if using) for added richness.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with extra almonds, cranberries, and Parmesan if desired.
2. Serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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3. Tips for Perfect Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries and Almonds

3.1 Shave Brussels Sprouts Thinly

Thinly slicing the Brussels sprouts helps soften their texture and makes them easier to eat in a salad.

3.2 Toast the Almonds for Extra Flavor

Toasting the almonds enhances their nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the salad.

3.3 Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts

Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts for the best texture and flavor. Avoid any that are yellow or have wilted leaves.

3.4 Add Dressing Gradually

Add the dressing a little at a time to avoid overdressing. Brussels sprouts can hold up to the dressing without wilting quickly, so this salad can be dressed slightly in advance.

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4. Flavor Variations

4.1 Cranberry and Walnut Brussels Sprouts Salad

Swap almonds for toasted walnuts, which pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the cranberries and the sharpness of the vinaigrette.

4.2 Citrus Brussels Sprouts Salad

Add segmented orange slices or a splash of orange juice to the vinaigrette for a citrusy twist that brightens up the flavors.

4.3 Spicy Dijon Brussels Sprouts Salad

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a hint of heat that complements the tangy, nutty flavors of the salad.

4.4 Vegan Brussels Sprouts Salad

Omit the Parmesan cheese and add nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shavings for a similar umami flavor.

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5. Serving Suggestions

This crunchy Brussels sprouts salad is versatile and pairs well with various main dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• With Roast Turkey or Chicken: A great side dish for holiday roasts or weeknight chicken dinners.
• With Grilled Fish: Pairs beautifully with light, flaky fish like salmon or cod.
• With a Grain Bowl: Serve over quinoa, farro, or brown rice for a filling, wholesome meal.
• On a Buffet Spread: This salad’s fresh flavors make it a refreshing addition to any potluck or buffet.

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6. Storing Leftovers

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The Brussels sprouts hold up well to the dressing, so the salad will stay crisp for a day or two after dressing.

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7. Making Ahead for Gatherings

This salad can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for holiday gatherings or meal prep:

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Shave the Brussels sprouts and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
2. Make the Vinaigrette: Mix the vinaigrette ingredients and store in a separate container in the refrigerator.
3. Combine Before Serving: Assemble the salad and toss with the vinaigrette just before serving for maximum freshness.

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FAQ

1. Can I use another green instead of Brussels sprouts?

Yes! Thinly sliced kale or cabbage can be used as an alternative to Brussels sprouts.

2. Can I use fresh cranberries?

Dried cranberries work best for this salad, but fresh pomegranate seeds or thinly sliced apples make a great substitute if you prefer fresh fruit.

3. Can I make this salad nut-free?

Yes, replace almonds with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.

4. How do I make the Brussels sprouts less bitter?

Massaging the shaved Brussels sprouts with a little salt or olive oil before dressing can help reduce bitterness.

5. Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

6. Can I add grains to make this salad heartier?

Yes, adding cooked quinoa, farro, or wild rice makes the salad more filling and adds texture.

7. How can I make the dressing creamier?

Add a tablespoon of tahini or vegan mayo to the vinaigrette for a creamier dressing.

8. Should I use sweetened or unsweetened cranberries?

Both work, but unsweetened cranberries give a more tangy flavor. Adjust the maple syrup in the vinaigrette to balance the tartness if needed.

9. Can I add cheese to the salad?

Yes! Shaved Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese adds a creamy richness that pairs well with the Brussels sprouts and cranberries.

10. How should I serve this salad for a holiday meal?

Serve in a large bowl or platter garnished with extra cranberries and almonds for a festive look that’s perfect for holiday tables.

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Shaved Brussels sprouts salad with cranberries and almonds is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With the crunch of fresh Brussels sprouts, the sweetness of cranberries, and the nuttiness of almonds, all tied together with a tangy Dijon vinaigrette, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy this crisp and colorful addition to any meal!