Shaved Sprout Salad with Lemon & Pecans
A vibrant, no-cook salad featuring thinly shaved Brussels sprouts, toasted pecans, and salty Parmesan, all brightened by a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. This quick and healthy dish is perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side.
For 2 servings
**Prepare Brussels Sprouts**: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Trim off the tough ends and remove any discolored outer leaves. Using a mandoline slicer (set to a very thin setting), a food processor with a slicing disc, or a sharp chef's knife, thinly shave the Brussels sprouts into fine ribbons. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
**Whisk the Dressing**: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, maple syrup (if using), Dijon mustard (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
**Dress the Sprouts**: Pour the prepared dressing over the shaved Brussels sprouts in the large mixing bowl.
**Add Mix-ins**: Add the roughly chopped toasted pecans and the shaved Parmesan cheese to the bowl with the dressed sprouts.
**Toss and Rest**: Toss all the ingredients gently but thoroughly to ensure the sprouts are evenly coated with the dressing and the pecans and cheese are well distributed. Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the lemon juice to slightly tenderize the raw sprouts, enhancing their flavor and texture.
**Serve**: Give the salad one final toss before serving immediately. Enjoy as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Achieve Ultra-Thin Shaves**: For the best texture, use a mandoline slicer to get uniformly thin Brussels sprout ribbons. If using a knife, ensure it's very sharp and slice as thinly as possible.
- 2**Don't Skip the Rest**: Allowing the salad to rest for 5-10 minutes is crucial. The acidity of the lemon juice works to tenderize the raw sprouts, making them more palatable and less bitter.
- 3**Toast Your Pecans**: Toasting pecans (or any nuts) in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant significantly enhances their flavor and crunch. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly.
- 4**Customize Your Cheese**: While Parmesan is classic, consider other hard, salty cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a crumbled goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or roasted chickpeas to make this a more substantial meal.
Fruity & SweetFruity & Sweet
Incorporate thinly sliced apple or pear, or a handful of dried cranberries or cherries for a touch of sweetness and extra texture.
Nut & Seed SwapNut & Seed Swap
Experiment with other toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds, or add sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins K & C
Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health, and Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system.
Digestive Health
The high fiber content in Brussels sprouts promotes healthy digestion, aids in satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Pecans provide monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, and also contain antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.
Frequently asked questions
While best enjoyed fresh after its 5-10 minute rest, you can prep the shaved sprouts and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Combine and dress just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
