Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is a vibrant dish that combines fresh greens with a variety of textures and flavors. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this salad stands out with its mix of crunchy almonds, sweet cranberries, and tangy cheese. It’s not just nutritious but also incredibly delicious, making it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of marinated onions, garlic, and lemon juice brings amazing taste to every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish or make it the main event by adding protein like grilled chicken or tofu.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with vitamins and minerals, this salad is perfect for healthy eating.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better after marinating in the fridge for a few hours.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious kale and Brussels sprout salad, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Saves time by shredding vegetables quickly and evenly.
• Mason jar: Perfect for shaking up dressings without making a mess.
• Mortar and pestle: Great for muddling garlic and spices to release their full flavor.

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

• 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
• 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 oven to 350°F. Add almonds to a baking sheet and place in the oven to toast. Stir almonds after 5 minutes. Allow them to toast about 3-4 minutes longer or until golden. Remove from oven and allow almonds to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

Meanwhile, toss together the ingredients for the dressing by muddling together the minced garlic with sea salt and black pepper using a mortar and pestle. Place muddled garlic and spices into a mason jar with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and thinly sliced onion. Shake well to combine and let marinate.

Step 3: Shred the Vegetables

In a food processor fitted with a slicing blade, shred the Brussels sprouts. Next, shred the kale. If you don’t have a food processor, you can chop them by hand; just ensure they are very thinly sliced. Place all shredded vegetables in a large bowl.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour lemon juice over the kale and Brussels sprout mixture; sprinkle on sea salt. Massage the mixture gently with clean hands until well combined. Add cranberries, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, then pour dressing over the salad mixture. Stir thoroughly before adding cheese; stir again gently.

Step 5: Serve Your Salad

Top with toasted almonds right before serving. Enjoy immediately or let sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to marinate before serving for enhanced flavors!

How to Serve Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Serving Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is a delightful experience that can be tailored to fit any occasion. Whether it’s a weekday meal or a special gathering, this salad can shine as a side dish or a main course.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect Pairing with Grilled Meats: This salad complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken or steak perfectly.
• Ideal for Holiday Meals: Serve it alongside roasted turkey or ham for a fresh contrast to richer dishes.
• Great with Soup: Pair it with a light vegetable or chicken soup for an easy lunch.

As a Main Course

• Add Protein: Top the salad with grilled shrimp or sliced chicken breast for a filling meal.
• Make it Vegetarian: Include chickpeas or quinoa to enhance the protein content while keeping it meat-free.
• Serve on a Bed of Greens: Enhance your presentation by serving it over a bed of mixed greens or arugula.

How to Perfect Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

To elevate your Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad, consider these simple tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh lemon juice and high-quality olive oil for vibrant taste.
• Properly Massage the Kale: Gently massaging the kale helps break down its toughness, making it more enjoyable to eat.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always choose fresh, organic vegetables when possible for better flavor and nutrition.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor, adding depth to the salad.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or acidity to your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances out the salad’s crunchiness while adding nutrition.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf makes an excellent addition, providing protein and fiber.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: The warm, buttery breadsticks offer a comforting element alongside the crisp salad.
4. Grilled Vegetable Medley: Charred veggies add smokiness that enhances the freshness of your salad.
5. Rice Pilaf with Herbs: The fragrant herbs in rice pilaf create a flavorful contrast to the tangy dressing.
6. Caprese Skewers: These skewers bring in freshness from tomatoes and basil, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your kale and Brussels sprout salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the almonds: Toasting almonds for too long can lead to bitterness. Keep an eye on them in the oven and remove them as soon as they turn golden.

• Skipping the massaging step: Not massaging the kale can result in a tough texture. Take a few moments to gently massage the kale with lemon juice and salt for a softer bite.

• Using stale ingredients: Old nuts or dried fruits can ruin the flavor of your salad. Always check for freshness before adding ingredients like cranberries or almonds.

• Neglecting to taste before serving: Not tasting your salad can leave it under-seasoned. Always take a moment to adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, or lemon juice before serving.

• Forgetting about marination time: Serving right after mixing may not allow flavors to meld. Letting the salad sit in the fridge for a bit enhances its taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store leftovers longer.

Freezing Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes after thawing.
• If necessary, freeze only individual components like cranberries or almonds.

Reheating Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat in a baking dish for 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is kale and Brussels sprout salad?

Kale and Brussels sprout salad is a fresh dish that combines shredded kale with thinly sliced Brussels sprouts, cranberries, nuts, cheese, and a flavorful dressing.

How do I prepare kale for salad?

To prepare kale for your salad, wash it thoroughly, remove the stems, and chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces. Massaging it with lemon juice helps soften the leaves.

Can I add more ingredients to my kale and Brussels sprout salad?

Absolutely! You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients like apples, walnuts, or feta cheese for added flavor and nutrients.

How do I store leftover kale and Brussels sprout salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within three days; keep dressing separate for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This kale and Brussels sprout salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or cheeses. It’s perfect as a side dish or main meal option! Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!