Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is a vibrant blend of shredded kale, crunchy Brussels sprouts, and sweet cranberries. With its fresh flavors and textures, this salad is perfect for any occasion—be it a family dinner, holiday gathering, or as a nutritious lunch option. The addition of marinated onions, almonds, and Pecorino cheese elevates the dish, making it not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad features superfoods like kale and Brussels sprouts that support your overall well-being.
• Quick Preparation: With just a 20-minute prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Whether as a side or a main course, this kale and Brussels sprout salad fits perfectly into any meal.
• Flavorful Dressing: The garlic-infused dressing adds depth and richness to the fresh ingredients, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Make Ahead Option: This salad tastes even better after marinating in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is crucial.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Baking sheet
• Mason jar
• Mortar and pestle
• Large mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Quickly shreds the kale and Brussels sprouts for a uniform texture without much effort.
• Mason jar: Perfect for shaking up dressings; it allows for easy mixing and marinating.
• Mortar and pestle: Ideal for muddling garlic with spices to release their full flavors before adding them to the dressing.

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 Salad Base

• 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)
• 1 large bunch of Lacinato kale (washed and de-stemmed)
• 1 lb Brussels sprouts
• Juice of 2 lemons

For Flavor and Texture

• 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Place the baking sheet in the oven.
* Stir the almonds after 5 minutes.
* Allow them to toast for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

While the almonds cool:
* Muddle minced garlic with sea salt and black pepper using a mortar and pestle.
* Transfer this mixture into a mason jar along with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and thinly sliced onion.
Shake well to combine ingredients. Let it marinate while you prepare the salad.

Step 4: Shred Kale and Brussels Sprouts

Using a food processor fitted with a slicing blade:
* Shred the Brussels sprouts first.
* Next, shred the kale. If you don’t have a food processor:
– Chop both by hand into very thin slices.
Place all shredded vegetables into a large bowl.

Step 5: Massage Kale Mixture

Pour lemon juice over the kale mixture:
* Sprinkle with sea salt.
* Use clean hands to massage the mixture until it’s tenderized.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add cranberries, red pepper flakes, nutmeg:
Pour the prepared dressing over everything in the bowl.
Stir well to combine all ingredients before adding:
– The grated Pecorino cheese.
– Toasted almonds on top.

Step 7: Serve or Marinate

Enjoy your salad right away or refrigerate for some time to enhance flavors before serving!

How to Serve Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

This kale and Brussels sprout salad is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether as a side dish or a main course, here are some suggestions to make it shine on your table.

As a Main Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken for a protein boost.
• Add quinoa for extra fiber and a nutty flavor.

As a Side Salad

• Serve alongside roasted meats like chicken or beef.
• Complement with fish dishes, such as salmon or tilapia.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in whole grain wraps.
• Add slices of turkey or hummus for more flavor.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve over mixed greens for added texture.
• Top with avocado slices for creaminess.

With Extra Toppings

• Sprinkle with sunflower seeds for an extra crunch.
• Drizzle with additional balsamic glaze for sweetness.

How to Perfect Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

To ensure your kale and Brussels sprout salad is always delicious, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh kale and sprouts will have the best flavor and texture.
• Massage the kale: This helps to soften the leaves and reduce bitterness, making it more enjoyable to eat.
• Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit after mixing enhances flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding different nuts or cheeses based on your preference for variety.
• Adjust acidity: Taste before serving; you can add more lemon juice or vinegar if you prefer a tangier salad.
• Serve chilled: Refrigerating the salad before serving can enhance its refreshing qualities.

Best Side Dishes for Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

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

1. Grilled Chicken: Marinated chicken breasts add protein and complement the salad’s flavors nicely.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A herbed quinoa dish provides additional nutrients while being light yet filling.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness contrasts well with the savory elements of the salad.
4. Garlic Bread: A classic side that adds warmth and crunch; perfect for soaking up any dressing left on your plate.
5. Crispy Tofu Bites: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu adds protein while keeping things light.
6. Lentil Soup: A hearty soup pairs well, enhancing both flavor and nutrition in your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a kale and Brussels sprout salad, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish significantly.

• Skipping the massage step: Not massaging the kale can lead to a tough texture. Make sure to massage the kale with lemon juice and salt to make it tender and flavorful.
• Overcooking the almonds: Toasting almonds too long can burn them, making them bitter. Keep an eye on them in the oven, stirring halfway through for even toasting.
• Using bland dressing: A dull dressing can ruin your salad. Ensure you use fresh ingredients like garlic and lemons to create a vibrant flavor profile.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your salad after mixing can leave it under-seasoned. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your palate before serving.
• Ignoring freshness of ingredients: Using wilted kale or old Brussels sprouts affects taste and nutrition. Always choose fresh produce for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes, especially for the kale and sprouts.
• If you must freeze, separate the dressing from the salad mixture.

Reheating Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe container. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, cook the salad while stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying kale and Brussels sprout salad.

Can I make Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

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

You can add different nuts like walnuts or pecans, swap cranberries for raisins, or introduce other veggies for extra crunch.

How do I store leftovers of Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Is Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and protein from cheese.

Final Thoughts

This kale and Brussels sprout salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish at any meal. Its versatility allows for endless customization—feel free to add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or proteins to make it your own! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!