Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad

Craving a salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying? Look no further! This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad is a delightful combination of crisp textures, sweet and savory flavors, and a tangy maple-Dijon vinaigrette that ties it all together. Perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or even a potluck contribution, this salad is sure to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Let’s get started and explore the magic of this delightful salad.

Why You’ll Love This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad

This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad isn’t just another salad; it’s a flavor adventure. Here’s why you’ll fall in love:

• Ready in Minutes: This salad comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect Texture Contrast: The shaved Brussels sprouts offer a delightful crunch, while the pears provide a soft, juicy sweetness.
• Flavor Explosion: The maple-Dijon vinaigrette adds a tangy, sweet, and savory element that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Nutrient-Packed: Brussels sprouts are a powerhouse of vitamins and fiber, making this salad a healthy choice.
• Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of the Brussels sprouts, pears, cranberries, and walnuts make this salad a feast for the eyes.
• Versatile: This salad can be customized with your favorite nuts, cheeses, or even grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is always a hit at gatherings and potlucks.
• Simple Elegance: It is easy enough for weeknight meals yet sophisticated enough for entertaining.

Ingredients Needed for the Best Brussels Sprout Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad. Remember to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor!

For the Salad:

• Brussels Sprouts: 1 pound (450g), trimmed and thinly shaved. Select firm, compact sprouts for the best texture.
• Pears: 2 ripe pears, cored and thinly sliced. Choose pears that are slightly firm to the touch. Bosc or Anjou varieties work well.
• Dried Cranberries: 1/2 cup (75g). These add a touch of sweetness and chewiness to the salad.
• Chopped Walnuts: 1/2 cup (50g). Walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them lightly for enhanced flavor.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (25g, optional). Adds a salty, savory note to the salad.

For the Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette:

• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml). Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Maple Syrup: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Adds a natural sweetness to the dressing.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Provides a tangy acidity that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon (15ml). Adds a sharp, pungent flavor to the vinaigrette.
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced. Adds a savory depth to the dressing.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season generously to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the walnuts lightly in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools can make preparing this Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Bowl: For tossing the salad ingredients together.
• Small Bowl: For whisking together the vinaigrette.
• Whisk: To emulsify the vinaigrette.
• Mandoline or Sharp Knife: For thinly shaving the Brussels sprouts. A mandoline makes this process much faster and easier.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.

Don’t have a mandoline? A sharp knife and a steady hand will do the trick. Just be sure to slice the Brussels sprouts as thinly as possible for the best texture.

Recipe Details: Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when making this delightful salad:

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• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to serve a larger crowd. Just make sure you have a large enough bowl to toss all the ingredients together!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and visually appealing Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad.

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Thinly shave the Brussels sprouts using a mandoline, food processor with a slicing attachment, or a sharp knife. Place the shaved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. The thinner the better!

Step 2: Prepare the Pears

Core the pears and thinly slice them. Add the sliced pears to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts. To prevent browning, you can toss the sliced pears with a little lemon juice.

Step 3: Add Remaining Salad Ingredients

Add the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and Parmesan cheese (if using) to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts and pears. Gently toss to combine the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Ensure the vinaigrette is emulsified for the best flavor and texture.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Pour the maple-Dijon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overdress the salad, as this can make it soggy.

Step 6: Serve the Brussels Sprouts Salad

Serve the salad immediately or chill for later. If chilling, you may want to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming too soft. A little bit of chill time actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

CHECK OUT: Cucumber Dill Salad – A fresh and flavorful salad that’s perfect for summer.

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to ensure your Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad turns out perfectly every time:

• Shave the Brussels Sprouts Thinly: The thinner the Brussels sprouts, the more tender and palatable they will be.
• Don’t Overdress: Add the vinaigrette gradually, tossing as you go, to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• Toast the Nuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
• Use Ripe Pears: Ripe pears provide the perfect sweetness and texture for this salad.
• Adjust the Vinaigrette to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, or Dijon mustard to suit your personal preferences.

Variations & Substitutions for Unique Flavors

Want to customize your Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad? Here are some delicious variations and substitutions:

• Cheese: Substitute Parmesan cheese with crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Nuts: Use pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of walnuts.
• Fruit: Add apple slices, pomegranate seeds, or dried cherries for a different fruity twist.
• Protein: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
• Vinaigrette: Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad

This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Here are some serving suggestions:

• • Main Course: Serve as a light and refreshing main course for lunch or dinner.

• Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
• Holiday Meal: Add to your holiday table as a vibrant and flavorful side dish.
• Non-alcoholic Drinks: Serve with sparkling water, iced tea, or a refreshing fruit smoothie.

Health Benefits of This Pear Salad

This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes overall health. Pears provide additional fiber and antioxidants, while walnuts are rich in healthy fats and protein. Enjoy this salad knowing you’re nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients!

Storage & Reheating Tips

To keep your Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad fresh and delicious, follow these storage and reheating tips:

• Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Dressing: If you’re not serving the salad immediately, store the dressing separately to prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming soggy.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not recommended.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it will change the texture of the Brussels sprouts and pears.

Cool fully before sealing the salad, this will help avoid condensation and make it stay fresher for longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I shave Brussels sprouts without a mandoline?

If you don’t have a mandoline, you can use a sharp knife to thinly slice the Brussels sprouts. Cut them in half lengthwise, then slice them thinly crosswise.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming soggy.

Can I use a different type of pear?

Yes, you can use any type of pear you like. Bosc, Anjou, and Bartlett pears all work well in this salad.

Can I add other ingredients to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients such as crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, or dried fruit to customize the salad to your liking.

How do I prevent the pears from browning?

To prevent the pears from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice after slicing.

Can I use a different type of vinegar in the vinaigrette?

Yes, you can use a different type of vinegar such as balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 75mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Total Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 5g
• Vitamin C: 20%
• Calcium: 6%
• Iron: 4%
• Potassium: 8%

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator.

More Delightful Salads to Try

Craving more delicious salad recipes? Check out these tasty options:

• YOU MIGHT LOVE: Apple Salad – A sweet and tangy salad with crisp apples and a creamy dressing.
• CHECK OUT: Greek Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
• WOW: Strawberry Spinach Salad with Almonds and Balsamic – A delightful combination of sweet strawberries, fresh spinach, and crunchy almonds.

Conclusion

This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad is a quick, flavorful, and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines the crispness of shaved Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of ripe pears and the tang of a maple-Dijon vinaigrette, creating a truly unforgettable salad experience. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece on social media! Happy cooking!

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