If you think Brussels sprouts are only meant to be roasted or sautéed, this fresh and vibrant shaved Brussels sprouts salad is about to change your mind. Crisp, slightly nutty sprouts are paired with sweet apples, crunchy almonds, and savory Parmesan, then tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette that ties everything together beautifully.
This salad is not only packed with flavor and texture, but it’s also incredibly nutritious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a light lunch, or something impressive for a dinner party, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Brussels Sprouts Salad
There are plenty of reasons this salad deserves a spot in your regular rotation:
- Fresh and crunchy: Shaved Brussels sprouts create a slaw-like texture that’s crisp and satisfying
- Perfect balance of flavors: Sweet apples, nutty almonds, and salty Parmesan complement each other perfectly
- Simple yet elegant: Minimal ingredients with maximum impact
- Make-ahead friendly: Holds up well in the fridge without getting soggy
- Nutrient-dense: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly shaved
- 1 crisp apple (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), thinly sliced
- sliced almonds, toasted
- shaved Parmesan cheese
- Optional: dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for added sweetness
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- fresh lemon juice
- lemon zest
- Dijon mustard
- olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends and remove any damaged outer leaves. Using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor, thinly slice the Brussels sprouts into fine shreds.
Step 2: Chop the Almonds
Chop the almonds into small pieces.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, sliced apples, toasted almonds, and Parmesan.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss well to coat. Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Best Brussels Sprouts Salad
- Slice thinly: The thinner the sprouts, the more tender and enjoyable the texture
- Use fresh lemon juice: It makes a noticeable difference in flavor
- Balance sweetness: Adjust honey or maple syrup based on how tart your apples are
- Don’t skip toasting the almonds: It enhances their flavor and crunch
- Let it rest: A short resting time softens the sprouts slightly and improves taste
Variations and Add-Ins
This salad is incredibly versatile. Try these variations to mix things up:
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas turn this into a complete meal
- Make it vegan: Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative
- Add grains: Toss in cooked quinoa or farro for extra heartiness
- Switch the nuts: Walnuts or pecans work just as well
- Add cheese variety: Try goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor profile
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse. They are:
- High in fiber, which supports digestion
- Rich in vitamin C and K
- Loaded with antioxidants
- Low in calories but very filling
Paired with heart-healthy almonds and olive oil, plus fiber-rich apples, this salad is as nourishing as it is delicious.
What to Serve with This Salad
This shaved Brussels sprouts salad pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Grilled salmon or other fish
- Holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner
- Sandwiches or wraps for a balanced lunch
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
- The salad actually improves slightly as it sits, making it great for meal prep
- If making ahead, consider adding almonds just before serving to maintain crunch
Final Thoughts
This shaved Brussels sprouts salad with apples, almonds, and Parmesan is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its crisp texture, bright flavors, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a weekday lunch, this salad is guaranteed to impress—no cooking required.
Give it a try, and you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy Brussels sprouts.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apples, Almonds, and Parmesan (with a Lemon Vinaigrette)
Ingredients
- Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apples Almonds and Parmesan
- 15 brussels sprouts shaved
- 1 red apple of choice sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup of chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup cranberries optional
Lemon Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice roughly two lemons
- Lemon zest from two lemons
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the lemon vinaigrette by adding all the dressing ingredients to a jar and shaking until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, chopped almonds, sliced apples, and dried cranberries.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Finish by sprinkling Parmesan on top, then serve.
Nutrition
