Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this brussel sprout salad! Perfect for Thanksgiving, it’s like a breath of fresh air on your holiday table. I mean, who wouldn’t love the crunch of those vibrant, green brussel sprouts paired with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the richness of feta cheese? It’s a delightful medley that not only looks stunning but also brings a healthy twist to your feast!
What I adore most about this salad is how easy it is to whip up. You can have it ready in just 15 minutes—yes, you heard that right! Plus, it’s a no-cook recipe, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of family and friends. Trust me, the flavors meld beautifully when you let it sit for a bit, and it’s such a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re a brussel sprout lover or just curious to try something new, this salad is going to steal the show at your Thanksgiving gathering.
Ingredients for Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Here’s what you’ll need to make this fantastic brussel sprout salad. Each ingredient brings something special to the table, so let’s make sure we get it just right!
- 1 lb brussel sprouts: Trimmed and thinly sliced. The star of the show! Look for bright green sprouts that feel firm when you squeeze them.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These little gems add a pop of sweetness and a lovely chewy texture. Trust me, they pair perfectly with the brussel sprouts!
- 1/2 cup walnuts: Chopped. They bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Feel free to toast them lightly for an extra depth of flavor!
- 1/2 cup feta cheese: Crumbled. This tangy cheese adds creaminess and a salty kick that balances out the sweetness of the cranberries.
- 1/4 cup red onion: Thinly sliced. It gives a bit of sharpness and color. If you find raw onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes to mellow them out.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: This will be the base of our dressing, adding richness and helping all those flavors come together.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: For a tangy kick! It’s the perfect complement to the sweetness in the salad.
- 1 tablespoon honey: This adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing. You can adjust this based on how sweet you want your salad to be!
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Just a pinch will enhance all the flavors beautifully!
And there you have it! Gather these ingredients, and we’ll make magic happen in the kitchen!
How to Prepare Your Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing this gorgeous salad! It’s super simple, but I’ll walk you through each step to make sure you nail it.
- First things first, start by prepping your brussel sprouts. Trim off the tough ends and slice them thinly. I like to use a mandoline for this because it gives me perfectly even slices, but a sharp knife works just as well!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced brussel sprouts, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion. This is where the magic begins as you mix all those beautiful colors and textures together!
- Now, let’s whip up the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I like to taste it as I go—don’t be shy! Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
- Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the salad mixture. Get in there with your hands or a large spoon and toss everything together until it’s all nicely coated. You want each bite to be bursting with flavor!
- Here’s a little tip: let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, and trust me, it makes a world of difference!
And that’s it! You’ve just created a stunning, refreshing brussel sprout salad that’s going to wow your guests. How easy was that? I can’t wait for you to taste it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This brussel sprout salad isn’t just a pretty face—it’s packed with benefits that make it a must-have on your Thanksgiving table. Here’s why you’re going to adore this recipe:
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip this salad up in no time. Perfect for those busy holiday moments!
- No Cooking Required: That’s right! This is a no-cook recipe, which means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities.
- Flavorful and Exciting: The combination of sweet cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and tangy feta creates a symphony of flavors that’ll keep your taste buds dancing.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh veggies and wholesome ingredients, this salad is a guilt-free addition to your holiday spread.
- Beautiful Presentation: Just look at those vibrant colors! This salad not only tastes amazing but looks stunning on your table, making it a feast for the eyes as well.
- Customize to Your Liking: Want to add a bit of apple or some pomegranate seeds? Go for it! This salad is super versatile and can easily be tailored to your taste.
Honestly, once you try this salad, you’ll be hooked! It’s a delightful blend of health and flavor that everyone will love.
Tips for Success with Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Alright, friends, let’s make sure this brussel sprout salad is nothing short of spectacular! Here are my top tips to help you achieve the best results possible:
- Choose Fresh Brussel Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts. Avoid any that are yellow or wilted. Freshness is key for that crunchy bite!
- Slice Evenly: Aim for thin, even slices. This not only makes for better texture but also helps the dressing coat the sprouts more evenly. A mandoline is a great tool for this, but a sharp knife works just fine!
- Tweak the Dressing: Don’t hesitate to play with the dressing! If you like it sweeter, add a touch more honey. For extra tang, a splash of lemon juice could be wonderful. Always taste as you go!
- Let It Marinate: Give the salad a little time to sit after dressing. This isn’t just a step—it’s essential! It allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully, making every bite absolutely divine.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to substitute ingredients! If walnuts aren’t your thing, pecans or almonds can work just as well. And if feta isn’t your favorite cheese, try goat cheese for a different twist!
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just hold off on adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep everything crisp and fresh!
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! A pinch can elevate the flavors tremendously, so season to your taste as you mix everything together.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to create a brussel sprout salad that will impress everyone at your Thanksgiving table! Happy cooking!
Variations on Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Now, let’s talk about how you can jazz up this brussel sprout salad! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to get creative. Here are some of my favorite variations that can take this salad from great to absolutely unforgettable:
- Apple Crunch: Add some diced apples for a sweet and crunchy twist. I love using crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji—they bring a nice contrast to the brussel sprouts!
- Pomegranate Seeds: Toss in some pomegranate seeds for a burst of juicy sweetness and a pop of color. They not only look beautiful but also provide a delightful crunch.
- Cheese Swap: If feta isn’t your thing, try goat cheese or even blue cheese for a bolder flavor. Each cheese brings its own unique twist!
- Maple Vinaigrette: Swap the honey in the dressing for maple syrup. It adds a lovely fall flavor that pairs perfectly with the brussel sprouts and cranberries.
- Roasted Veggies: For a heartier salad, consider adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes. Just roast them until tender and mix them in for a warm, comforting dish.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or even cilantro can brighten up the flavors. Just a handful chopped and tossed in can elevate the whole salad!
These variations not only add different flavors and textures but also make it easy to adapt the salad to your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and make this salad your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious brussel sprout salad, and now you’re wondering how to store those tasty leftovers? No worries! This salad is super easy to keep fresh for later enjoyment.
First, let it cool down to room temperature if you’ve made it ahead of time. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. I like to use glass containers—they keep everything nice and crisp! You can store the salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep the dressing separate if you plan on having leftovers. This way, the brussel sprouts stay crunchy and don’t get soggy!
When you’re ready to enjoy your salad again, just drizzle some dressing over it and give it a gentle toss. No reheating is necessary here—this salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If it’s been in the fridge for a bit, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might find you want a little extra salt or pepper after it’s been resting.
And that’s it! You’ll have a refreshing salad ready to go even after the big day. Enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information for Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this brussel sprout salad! It’s not just delicious; it’s also a healthy choice for your Thanksgiving feast. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
This salad is a great source of fiber thanks to the brussel sprouts and cranberries, and it delivers healthy fats from the walnuts and olive oil. Plus, with those vibrant veggies, you’re getting a load of vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling your best during the holiday season!
So, enjoy this salad guilt-free knowing it’s not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a boost for your health!
FAQ About Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving
Got questions about this scrumptious brussel sprout salad? No problem! Here are some common queries I’ve heard, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making a few hours ahead of your Thanksgiving feast. Just keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving to keep those brussel sprouts nice and crunchy.
Is it okay to use frozen brussel sprouts?
I wouldn’t recommend it! Frozen brussel sprouts can get mushy when thawed, and you really want that fresh crunch in this salad. Stick to fresh for the best texture and flavor!
Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Of course! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can use goat cheese for a creamier texture or even blue cheese for a bolder flavor. Each option will give the salad its own unique twist!
What can I do if my dressing is too sweet?
No worries! If you find your dressing is a tad too sweet, just add a splash more apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance it out. Tasting as you go is key!
How long will leftovers last?
This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate if you want to maintain that lovely crunch! Enjoy it cold or at room temperature for the best experience.
Print
Brussel Sprout Salad Thanksgiving: 5 Fresh Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and healthy brussel sprout salad perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb brussel sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the brussel sprouts by trimming and slicing them thinly.
- In a large bowl, combine brussel sprouts, cranberries, walnuts, feta cheese, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- This salad can be made ahead of time.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like apples or pomegranate seeds.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your liking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: brussel sprout salad thanksgiving
