Are you ready to enjoy a fresh and colorful salad that packs a flavorful punch? This Balsamic Brussels Sprout Salad combines roasted Brussels sprouts with sweet cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta. Toss in a tangy balsamic dressing, and you’ve got a dish that delights the senses. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this recipe is easy to follow and full of nutritious ingredients. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious salad!
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh Brussels sprouts are key to this salad’s crisp and delightful texture. When you choose Brussels sprouts, pick ones that are firm and bright green. They should feel heavy for their size and have no yellow leaves. This ensures you get the freshest flavor. Tossing them in olive oil adds richness and helps them roast perfectly. Don’t forget the salt and pepper for seasoning!
Additions and Toppings
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
These additions bring color, flavor, and crunch to your salad. Feta cheese adds a creamy tang that contrasts with the sprouts. Dried cranberries give a sweet burst. Chopped walnuts provide a nice crunch, while pomegranate seeds add a juicy pop. Together, these toppings make the salad fun and exciting to eat.
Dressing Components
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
The dressing is what ties everything together. Balsamic vinegar gives a sweet and sour kick that enhances the sprouts. Honey adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the acidity. Dijon mustard gives it a nice tang and depth. Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor to the dish. You can find the full recipe to guide you through making this delicious salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Brussels Sprouts
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are well coated. This step adds flavor and helps them roast nicely.
Roasting Process
– Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they have space to roast evenly.
– Roast for 20-25 minutes. Stir them halfway through to ensure they caramelize and get that nice golden color.
Dressing and Assembly
– While the Brussels sprouts roast, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard until smooth.
– After roasting, let the Brussels sprouts cool for a few minutes. Then, combine them in a large bowl with 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of dried cranberries, 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, and 1/4 cup of pomegranate seeds.
– Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients without crushing the sprouts. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley.
You can find the Full Recipe for a more detailed guide on making this delicious salad.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Roasted Brussels Sprouts
To get the best caramelization on your Brussels sprouts, use high heat. Roasting them at 400°F (200°C) works wonders. Spread them out on the baking sheet. If they touch, they will steam instead of roast. This will keep them crisp and tasty.
To avoid soggy Brussels sprouts, don’t skip the olive oil. It helps to crisp them up. Make sure to add enough salt and pepper. This enhances their natural flavor. Stir them halfway through roasting. This ensures even cooking and browning.
Dressing Variations
If you want a different taste, try swapping the dressing. You can mix in lemon juice or even orange juice for a fresh twist. For a creamy option, add some yogurt to the balsamic mix. It gives a rich flavor.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or reducing it. If you want more acidity, add extra balsamic vinegar. This will balance the flavors just right.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad warm or at room temperature. It tastes great either way. Use a large, shallow bowl to show off the bright colors. Top with extra pomegranate seeds for a fun look.
This salad pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled fish. Its flavors complement these dishes, making a full meal. You can also serve it alongside a hearty soup for a cozy lunch.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change the toppings in the salad to suit your taste. Try adding goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture. Nuts can also add a nice crunch. Pecans or almonds work well. If you want to switch up the flavor, consider using apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar instead of balsamic vinegar. Each vinegar will give the salad a unique twist.
Seasonal Add-ins
Adding seasonal fruits and vegetables can enhance the salad’s flavors. In fall, try diced apples or pears for sweetness. In spring, fresh peas or radishes can add a crisp bite. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can brighten the dish. Add these herbs right before serving to keep their flavor strong.
Dietary Adjustments
If you want a vegan version, simply leave out the cheese. You can add avocado for creaminess instead. For a gluten-free option, check that your mustard is gluten-free. This salad is very flexible and still tastes great with these changes. Enjoy making it your own! For the full recipe, check out the Balsamic Brussels Sprout Salad section above.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your Balsamic Brussels Sprout Salad fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container. This helps keep moisture out and flavors in. If you have extra dressing, keep it separate. This way, the salad stays crisp.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, the salad lasts about three days. After that, it may lose its taste and texture. Signs that the salad has gone bad include a sour smell, slimy leaves, or wilted sprouts. If you notice these signs, it’s best to toss the salad.
Reheating Tips
You can serve the salad cold or at room temperature. If you prefer warm Brussels sprouts, heat them gently. Use a pan on low heat to warm them. Don’t cook them too long; this can make them mushy. For the best flavor, I recommend enjoying it cold as a refreshing dish. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above.
FAQs
Common Questions about Balsamic Brussels Sprout Salad
What is the best way to clean Brussels sprouts?
The best way to clean Brussels sprouts is simple. Start by rinsing them under cool water. Then, trim off the tough stem ends. After that, remove any yellow or damaged leaves. This step makes them fresh and ready for cooking.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the dressing. Store them separately in the fridge. Combine them just before serving to keep everything crisp.
Nutritional Information
What are the health benefits of Brussels sprouts?
Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients. They are high in fiber, which helps digestion. They also contain vitamins C and K, which support your immune system and bone health. Plus, they are low in calories, making them a great choice for weight management.
Overview of calorie count and nutrient breakdown per serving.
One serving of this salad has about 180 calories. It contains 10 grams of fat, 12 grams of carbs, and 5 grams of protein. The mix of feta, cranberries, and walnuts adds healthy fats and proteins, making this salad both tasty and nutritious.
Customization Options
How can I make this salad spicier?
To spice up this salad, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You could also mix in some spicy mustard in the dressing. These options will give your salad a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Suggestions for additional proteins to add for a heartier meal.
For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or sliced turkey. Chickpeas or black beans also work well for a vegetarian option. These proteins will make the salad more filling and add extra nutrition.
In this blog post, we explored a delicious balsamic Brussels sprout salad. We covered fresh ingredients, step-by-step roasting, and tasty dressings. I shared tips for perfecting the dish and ideas for variations. Remember, fresh ingredients and proper storage are key for great taste. This salad can please many diets. Enjoy making it your own! With these tips, you’ll create a dish that becomes a favorite at any meal. Now, it’s time for you to try it and enjoy the flavors!
