As the leaves turn golden and the air carries that unmistakable crispness of fall, I find myself craving dishes that mirror the season’s bounty. This Savory Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon embodies autumn in every bite, balancing the earthiness of fresh greens with the sweet crunch of crisp apples. The magic happens when smoky bacon meets sharp cheddar, creating a symphony of flavor that feels indulgent yet surprisingly healthy.
Picture this: a vibrant medley of shredded Brussels sprouts and Tuscan kale, each piece dressed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette, all topped with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans and sweet-tart cranberries. Whether you’re looking to impress your family at Thanksgiving or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, this salad is versatile enough to fit both occasions. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that celebrates the best of the season’s harvest!
Why is this Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad unforgettable?
Irresistible taste: The combination of crispy bacon and sharp cheddar brings a delightful richness that complements the freshness of the greens.
Packed with nutrients: This salad is loaded with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a guilt-free indulgence for your holiday table.
Perfect for any occasion: Serve it as a side dish during Thanksgiving or as a light main course—this salad shines in any setting!
Quick and easy prep: With simple steps and make-ahead options, you can whip it up effortlessly, leaving you with more time to enjoy your company.
Vibrant flavors: The tartness of Granny Smith apples and sweet cranberries creates a perfect balance, making every bite a delightful experience.
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Brussels Sprouts – Primary vegetable providing crunch and nutrient density; use larger sprouts for easier shredding.
• Kale – Base green offering a hearty texture; Tuscan kale is recommended for its rich flavor.
• Granny Smith Apple – Provides tartness and sweetness; can be substituted with Honey Crisp apples for a sweeter twist.
• Pecans – Adds nutty crunch; must be toasted for maximum flavor.
• Dried Cranberries – Contributes a sweet component; opt for fresh dried cranberries to avoid stale ones.
• Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Aged for a deep flavor; replace with Parmigiano or bleu cheese for a unique taste.
• Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor; regular sliced bacon works best for optimal texture.
For the Dressing
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps dress the salad; use high-quality for the best flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance flavors; essential for a tangy dressing.
• Dijon Mustard – Incorporates a zesty tang.
• Honey – Sweetens the dressing; adjust according to your taste preferences and the apple’s tartness.
• Shallot – Provides a mild onion flavor when finely minced, enhancing the dressing’s complexity.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for optimal flavor.
• Reserved Bacon Fat – Enhances richness in the dressing; can be substituted with neutral oil for a lighter version.
Discover this comforting Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon that resonates with the flavors of fall and elevates any meal!
How to Make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad
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Prep Vegetables: Start by cleaning the Brussels sprouts, then slice or shave them thinly and place them in a mixing bowl. Remove the tough stems from the kale, roll the leaves, and slice them into ribbons. Combine everything in the same bowl.
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Massage Greens: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the mixed greens, sprinkle with salt, and gently massage them to coat and reduce their volume. This will soften the kale and enhance the flavors.
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Combine Ingredients: Mix in the diced Granny Smith apple, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, extra sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Toss gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the finely minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the remaining olive oil and warmed bacon fat while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
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Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Serve immediately for a fresh and crunchy experience that everyone will love!
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Make-Ahead Prep: Store the dressing separately in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can pre-cook the bacon and keep it in the fridge. Shave Brussels sprouts and slice kale up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
Optional: Garnish with extra pecans or a sprinkle of cheese for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists to make this wonderful salad even more personalized and delicious!
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Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor profile, adding delightful variety. Nuts bring uniqueness to the dish, enhancing texture and taste.
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Cheese Twist: Use crumbled feta or tangy goat cheese instead of sharp cheddar. This brings a creamy richness and a contrasting flavor that perfectly complements the salad.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute bacon with crispy chickpeas or omit for a vegetarian-friendly version. This way, you keep all the crunch without losing the heartiness.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a touch of heat and excitement that elevates the entire salad experience.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate sliced pears or pomegranate seeds for an extra layer of sweetness and color. Seasonal fruits add not just taste but also visual appeal, making every bite a feast for the eyes.
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Vegan Delight: Replace honey with maple syrup and skip the cheese for a delightful vegan version that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
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Grain Boost: Toss in some cooked quinoa or farro for added protein and heartiness. This elevates the salad to a complete meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor that lifts the dish and adds aromatic complexity. Herbs can really transform the overall feel of the salad.
Make Ahead Options
These Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon components are ideal for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights or special gatherings! You can shave the Brussels sprouts and slice the kale up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crisp. The dressing can be made and refrigerated for up to 5 days, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Cook the bacon ahead of time and simply reheat it before serving to revive its crunch. When ready to enjoy, toss everything together with the diced apple and cranberries, drizzling on the dressing right before serving for that just-made freshness!
Helpful Tricks for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad
• Slicing Technique: Use a mandoline slicer for even Brussels sprout slices. This ensures a uniform texture and enhances the salad’s overall presentation.
• Freshness Matters: Avoid cutting apples too early to prevent browning. Slice them just before serving to maintain their crispness and vibrant color in your Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad.
• Dressing Variations: For a lighter option, substitute reserved bacon fat with a neutral oil in the dressing. This way, you cater to both vegetarians and meat-lovers easily.
• Toast Those Nuts: Always toast pecans before adding them to the salad. This simple step amplifies their flavor and provides that delightful crunch that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
What to Serve with Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad?
Looking to create a complete meal that dazzles the senses and warms the heart?
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Roasted Turkey: The classic pairing for Thanksgiving, tender turkey complements the salad’s crunch and acidity beautifully.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa infused with herbs adds another layer of texture and makes for a wholesome vegetarian option.
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Crispy Baked Potatoes: Their creamy inside and crunchy exterior harmonize perfectly with the vibrant greens and smoky bacon.
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Pumpkin Soup: A warm, velvety soup enhances the autumn theme while balancing flavors with a bit of sweetness.
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Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses enhances the indulgent nature of the salad; think creamy brie or tangy goat cheese.
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Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade cranberry sauce echoes the salad’s tart cranberries, creating a flavor bridge at your meal.
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Apple Cider: Serve alongside a chilled glass of apple cider to echo the apple’s sweetness and bring a refreshing note.
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Chocolate Tart: For dessert, a rich chocolate tart offers a decadent conclusion, perfectly rounding out the indulgent meal.
Indulge your loved ones with these pairings, and elevate your dining experience to the next level!
Storage Tips for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad
Fridge: Store assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, for best texture, keep dressing separate until ready to serve.
Make-Ahead: Prep individual components—shaved Brussels sprouts, sliced kale, and pre-cooked bacon—up to 3 days in advance, storing everything in airtight containers for freshness.
Dressing: The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Whisk again before using, as ingredients may separate while stored.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as ingredients like apples and greens may lose their texture upon thawing, affecting the quality of your Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad.
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm, bright green, and compact. Avoid any with yellow leaves or dark spots all over, as these might indicate overripeness. Larger sprouts are easier to shred, so aim for those!
What’s the best way to store leftover salad?
For the best texture, store your assembled Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the greens from wilting!
Can I freeze this salad for later use?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad. The greens and apples may become mushy when thawed, leading to a less enjoyable texture. Instead, prepare ingredients like shaved Brussels sprouts and sliced kale ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why did my salad turn out soggy?
Very often, the culprit is excess water on the leaves or dressing added too early. Be sure to dry your greens well after washing and consider adding the dressing just before serving. Massage the greens lightly to break down their fibers without turning them mushy. If you have leftover dressing, store it separately to maintain the right balance of flavors!
Can I make this salad vegetarian-friendly?
The more the merrier! To cater to vegetarian diets, simply exclude the bacon and use a neutral oil in place of warmed bacon fat for the dressing. You can keep the delicious flavors intact while still pleasing a diverse crowd at your gathering.
How can I adjust the salad for my dietary needs?
Feel free to swap out ingredients to suit your needs. If you’re concerned about allergies or dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free alternatives for the mustard, and double-check for any nut-related sensitivities if you’re serving to others. Adjustments can make this Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad even more inclusive!
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Cheddar & Bacon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep Vegetables: Clean and slice or shave Brussels sprouts, remove tough stems from kale, and combine in a mixing bowl.
- Massage Greens: Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle salt over mixed greens; massage to soften kale.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix in apple, toasted pecans, cranberries, cheddar cheese, and bacon, tossing gently.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together shallot, vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper; drizzle in olive oil and bacon fat.
- Serve: Pour dressing over salad and toss well; serve immediately.
- Make-Ahead Prep: Store dressing separately, pre-cook bacon, and shave Brussels sprouts in advance.