There’s a fresh crunch that takes me back to sunny farmers' markets, where vibrant greens catch the light and beg to be whisked into something delicious. Enter the Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad, a vibrant dish that’s as easy to whip up as it is to enjoy—perfect for those busy weeknights or whenever I need a little pick-me-up without the heavy feeling that fast food often leaves behind.
I love how the earthy notes of kale mingle with the subtle sweetness of shaved Brussels sprouts, all drizzled with a zesty olive oil and lemon dressing that sings in harmony with every bite. In just 20 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a colorful, nutrient-packed bowl that not only satisfies cravings but also makes for a stunning centerpiece at gatherings. It’s the ideal recipe to explore when you want a taste of something fresh and wholesome without the fuss. Let’s dive into making this delightful salad that’s bound to become a staple on your table!
Why You'll Love This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad
- This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- The flavor combination of earthy kale and sweet Brussels sprouts, complemented by a zesty olive oil and lemon dressing, creates a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, turning a simple salad into a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
- Plus, this salad is versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a light main course, making it perfect for any occasion.
Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• 4 cups kale – make sure to remove the tough stems for a tender bite.
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts – thinly slice them for a delicate, sweet flavor.
For the Dressing
• 4 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – this adds richness and depth to your salad.
• 2 tablespoon lemon juice – fresh lemon juice enhances the overall brightness.
• 0.5 teaspoon sea salt – it helps to bring all the flavors together.
• black pepper – freshly cracked pepper adds a touch of warmth and spice.
Feel free to customize this Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad with your favorite toppings, like nuts or seeds, for an extra crunch!
How to Make Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad
- Chop the kale finely and place it in a large bowl. A fine chop helps to soften the leaves, turning them tender and flavorful.
- Massage the kale with a pinch of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until softened. This step creates a lovely texture and draws out the natural flavors of the greens.
- Slice the Brussels sprouts thinly and add them to the bowl. Aim for a delicate cut to enhance their sweet and crunchy flavor.
- Combine the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper. Drizzle this zesty dressing over your greens for a bright, luscious finish.
- Toss well to ensure everything is coated evenly, then adjust seasoning to taste. Enjoy mingling the flavors of your fresh ingredients.
- Serve immediately for a crisp salad or let it rest for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
Optional: Top with your favorite nuts or seeds for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the salad fresh; however, note that the texture may soften over time.
Freezer: It's not recommended to freeze this salad, as the greens will get mushy when thawed. Enjoy fresh for the best flavor and crunch!
Reheating: If you've added toppings like nuts that need to be warm, consider briefly toasting them separately when serving the salad for an enhanced flavor experience.
Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad Variations
Feel free to play around with this salad recipe to create something uniquely yours! Each variation brings a delightful twist that will keep your taste buds excited.
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Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts for a rich, crunchy texture that perfectly complements the greens. Nuts bring an earthy flavor that elevates every bite.
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Creamy Feta: Crumble in some feta cheese for a creamy, tangy burst. The richness of the cheese harmonizes beautifully with the fresh greens, creating a delicious contrast.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to add a spicy punch. This variation will awaken your taste buds and enhance the salad's zestiness.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate sliced apples or pears for a sweet, juicy element. The fruit’s natural sugars balance the earthiness of the kale and Brussels sprouts, making every forkful a treat.
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Herbaceous Touch: Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can brighten the salad with aromatic freshness. These herbs introduce new layers of flavor, making the salad even more refreshing.
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Quinoa Boost: For added protein and heartiness, mix in cooked quinoa. It transforms the salad into a more filling dish, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
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Vegan Twist: Swap traditional feta with crumbled tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly option that still offers creamy goodness.
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Zesty Citrus: Add orange or grapefruit segments for a refreshing citrus burst that enhances the bright dressing. The fruit brings a delightful sweetness and balances the salad’s flavors beautifully.
Each of these variations adds a personal touch to your Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad, making it a versatile dish perfect for any occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during your busy week. You can chop the kale and slice the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and seasoning, storing the dressing in a small jar to refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine the prepped greens, drizzle with the dressing, toss well, and savor a refreshing dish that tastes just as delicious as if it were made from scratch right before serving!
What to Serve with Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad?
For a delightful and balanced meal, explore these perfect pairings that enhance every bite!
- Crispy Quinoa Patties: These wholesome patties add protein and a satisfying crunch, perfectly complementing the salad's freshness.
- Grilled Lemon Chicken: The bright, zesty flavors of this chicken echo the salad's lemon dressing, making each bite burst with flavor. Enjoy this dish with a side of fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and earthy, these gentle bites provide a lovely contrast to the salad's crunchy texture, creating a warmth that’s comforting.
- Toasted Nuts or Seeds: Sprinkle some slivered almonds or pumpkin seeds on top for a delightful crunch that enhances the salad and adds a good dose of healthy fats.
- Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Reinforce that Brussels sprout flavor with a tangy glaze—this dish harmonizes beautifully with the salad's earthy charms.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: For a refreshing drink, serve fizzy water with slices of lemon or lime to tie the meal together and cleanse the palate.
- Berry and Goat Cheese Salad: Add a side salad dressed with sweet berries and tangy cheese to balance the bitterness of kale while adding a burst of color and flavor.
Each pairing enhances the overall sensory experience, ensuring you enjoy a memorable meal!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing the Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad, make sure to remove the tough stems from the kale for a tender bite.
- Massaging the kale with olive oil and salt not only softens it but also brings out its natural flavors, so don't skip this step.
- For the Brussels sprouts, aim for even, thin slices to achieve a delicate and sweet crunch that enhances the dish.
- Finally, if you let the salad rest for about 10 minutes after tossing, the flavors will meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious taste experience.
Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right kale for my salad?
Absolutely! When selecting kale, look for vibrant green leaves that are crisp and fresh. Avoid any with dark spots all over them, as this indicates spoilage. Smaller leaves tend to be more tender and flavorful, which is perfect for salads.
How should I store leftover Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad?
Very! You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be mindful that while it stays fresh, the texture may become softer, especially if it’s dressed. If you're prepping in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve for that extra crunch!
Can I freeze Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad?
It’s best not to freeze this salad. The greens can become mushy once thawed, which will detract from the wonderful crunch and flavor of the salad. Instead, I recommend enjoying it fresh.
What’s the best way to revive wilting greens if I mistakenly left my salad out?
Absolutely possible! Quickly rinse the kale and Brussels sprouts under cold water and let them soak for a few minutes. After draining, gently pat them dry before dressing again. Those greens will perk right up!
Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Very much so! This salad is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for most diets. However, if you have allergies to nuts or seeds, be cautious with any toppings you choose to add. Always check labels for hidden allergens and modify as necessary to suit your needs.
Can I use different types of greens or vegetables in this salad?
The more the merrier! Feel free to swap the kale for other leafy greens like spinach or arugula. You can also add vegetables such as shredded carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrients—make it your own!
Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop the kale finely and place it in a large bowl. A fine chop helps to soften the leaves, turning them tender and flavorful.
- Massage the kale with a pinch of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until softened. This step creates a lovely texture and draws out the natural flavors of the greens.
- Slice the Brussels sprouts thinly and add them to the bowl. Aim for a delicate cut to enhance their sweet and crunchy flavor.
- Combine the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper. Drizzle this zesty dressing over your greens for a bright, luscious finish.
- Toss well to ensure everything is coated evenly, then adjust seasoning to taste. Enjoy mingling the flavors of your fresh ingredients.
- Serve immediately for a crisp salad or let it rest for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
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