Crunchy and Colorful Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad (A Refreshing Delight Packed with Flavor)

Are you ready to jazz up your salad game? Introducing the Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad – a vibrant, crunchy medley that’s not just a feast for your eyes but for your taste buds too! Filled with crisp kale, tender Brussels sprouts, tangy cranberries, and a sprinkle of nutty almonds, this salad is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. It’s fresh, it’s zesty, and it’s guaranteed to be a family favorite that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Prepare to be dazzled by this kale and Brussels sprout salad! Here’s why it’ll become your go-to recipe:

– Big, Bold Flavors: With a zesty lemon dressing and nutty Pecorino cheese, each bite bursts with flavor.
– Crowd-Pleaser: A perfect addition to any gathering, this salad is sure to impress both friends and family alike!
– Flexible & Fast: Quick prep time means you can whip this up in a flash – perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
– Make-Ahead Magic: Letting the salad marinate in the fridge enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious when served.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather some incredible ingredients that will elevate your salad experience! You’ll find a fusion of earthy greens and sweet cranberries, all enhanced by a delicious dressing.

– 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 (or fresh Parmesan)
– ¼ cup almonds (sliced or chopped)

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is incredibly customizable! Here are a few delicious twists to make it your own:

– Go Gluten-Free: Skip the cheese or opt for a dairy-free version to make this salad gluten-free friendly!
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas to give your salad a protein-packed punch.
– Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for heat lovers!
– Swap the Dressing: Try a lemon tahini dressing for a creamy, nutty twist.
– Cheese it Up: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Let’s dive into the fun part – making this scrumptious Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad! Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a salad that’ll wow everyone!

Step 1: Toast the Almonds

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and place them in the oven. Stir the almonds after five minutes, and let them toast for an additional 3-4 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden color. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the almonds are toasting, let’s create a flavor-packed dressing! In a mortar and pestle, muddle together the minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Transfer this mixture to a mason jar and add in the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and thinly sliced onion. Seal the jar and give it a good shake to combine everything. Let it marinate for a bit to build those flavors.

Step 3: Shred the Greens

Grab your food processor fitted with a slicing blade and shred those Brussels sprouts first. Then, shred the kale. If you don’t have a food processor, don’t worry! Just chop them finely by hand. Once done, place the shredded greens in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Massage the Greens

Pour the zesty lemon juice over your kale and Brussels sprout mixture. Sprinkle a bit of sea salt and massage the greens gently with your hands. This helps to soften the kale and make it more deliciously tender. Once that’s done, add in the cranberries, red pepper flakes, and nutmeg. Pour the dressing over the salad and give it a good stir, making sure everything is well combined. Finally, sprinkle in the grated cheese and mix once more. Top it off with those lovely toasted almonds!

Step 5: Serve or Marinate

Enjoy your salad right away for a fresh crunch, or for even more flavor, let it sit in the fridge for a bit to marinate before serving!

Pro Tips for Making Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

– Fresh is Best: Use fresh lemon juice for maximum flavor. It really brightens up the dish!
– Don’t Skip the Massage: Massaging the kale is essential – it breaks down the tough fibers and makes it more palatable.
– Make Ahead: This salad is even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully, so feel free to prepare it in advance.

How to Serve Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of extra Pecorino cheese or some freshly cracked black pepper on top for an elegant touch!

Side Dishes

Pair this salad with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a hearty vegetable soup for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in individual cups for a fun presentation at your next gathering or arrange it on a large platter with a tangy vinaigrette drizzled artfully over the top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious!

Freezing

Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh greens, but you can keep other components, like the dressing, separate for later use.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap Pecorino for feta or goat cheese for a twist on flavor.

Is this salad spicy?

The salad has a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste!

How do I make this gluten-free?

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is already gluten-free! Just make sure to use gluten-free cheese if you’re adding any.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes! This salad actually tastes better after marinating for a couple of hours in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

With a colorful mix of textures and flavors, the Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of freshness and vibrancy on your plate! Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. So grab those greens, unleash your inner chef, and get ready to impress everyone with this delightful dish! Enjoy every crunchy bite!