Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a nutritious lunch, this salad hits all the right notes. The combination of fresh kale, crunchy Brussels sprouts, and zesty cranberries makes it both satisfying and refreshing. With its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Packed: This salad is loaded with vitamins and minerals from kale and Brussels sprouts, making it a healthy choice.
• Quick Preparation: With a prep time of only 20 minutes, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish or as a light main course; it pairs beautifully with various proteins.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of tangy dressing, sweet cranberries, and savory cheese creates an irresistible taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds for extra crunch or switch up the cheese for different flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make everything smoother. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for shredding the kale and Brussels sprouts quickly and evenly.
• Mason jar: Perfect for mixing dressings; just shake to combine without any mess.
• Mortar and pestle: Great for muddling garlic and spices to release their full flavors.

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 your oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

Place the almonds on a baking sheet.
* Toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes.
* Stir the almonds after 5 minutes.
* Allow them to toast for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a mortar and pestle:
* Muddle together minced garlic with sea salt and black pepper.
Transfer this mixture to a mason jar.
Add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and thinly sliced onion.
Shake well to combine. Let it marinate while you prepare the salad.

Step 4: Shred the Vegetables

Using a food processor fitted with a slicing blade:
1. Shred the Brussels sprouts first.
2. Next, shred the kale.
If you don’t have a food processor:
– Chop both vegetables thinly by hand.

Place shredded vegetables in a large bowl.

Step 5: Massage the Kale Mixture

Pour lemon juice over the kale and Brussels sprout mixture.
Sprinkle some sea salt over it.
Using clean hands:
– Massage the mixture gently until it softens.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add cranberries, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, and dressing to the bowl.
Stir well to combine everything thoroughly.
Top with grated cheese followed by toasted almonds.

Step 7: Serve or Marinate

Enjoy your salad immediately or refrigerate it for some time to let the flavors meld before serving.

How to Serve Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

This kale and Brussels sprout salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main dish, these suggestions will elevate your experience.

As a Standalone Meal

• Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing lunch option.
• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a protein boost.

With a Protein Addition

• Top with sliced grilled steak for added flavor and texture.
• Add chickpeas or black beans for a plant-based protein source.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside roasted vegetables to create a colorful plate.
• Pair with hearty entrees like lasagna or baked salmon.

For Meal Prep

• Store individual portions in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.

How to Perfect Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

To make this salad truly shine, follow these helpful tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

• Massage the Kale: Gently massaging the kale helps break down its tough fibers, making it more tender and flavorful.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh kale, sprouts, and spices to enhance the overall taste of the salad.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting almonds adds a delicious crunch and rich flavor that elevates the dish.
• Let it Marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for 15-30 minutes after mixing enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with Dressings: Try adding different vinaigrettes or citrus dressings for varied tastes.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your salad before serving; feel free to tweak salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

This salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider for your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery delight that complements salads perfectly.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs adds protein and texture.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the salad’s savoriness.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings an earthy flavor.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that adds volume without heaviness.
6. Crispy Tofu Bites: Seasoned tofu offers additional protein while keeping the dish plant-based.

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:

• Skipping the Massaging: Not massaging the kale can lead to a tough texture. Take a moment to massage the kale with lemon juice and salt for a more tender bite.

• Using Old Ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key. Always check that your Brussels sprouts and kale are crisp and vibrant before using them in your salad.

• Over-Seasoning the Dressing: Adding too much salt or vinegar can overpower the salad. Start with less, taste, and adjust as needed to enhance the flavors without overwhelming them.

• Not Toasting Nuts: Forgetting to toast the almonds can result in less flavor. Toasting brings out their nuttiness, so don’t skip this step for an extra crunch.

• Ignoring Serving Time: Serving immediately after preparation may not allow the flavors to meld properly. Letting the salad sit for a bit enhances its taste, so consider refrigerating it briefly before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Timeframe: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent wilting.

Freezing Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

• Timeframe: Best consumed fresh; however, if desired, freeze for up to 1 month.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place salad in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring regularly to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad?

You can add different nuts like walnuts or pecans, or include other veggies such as carrots or bell peppers for added crunch and color!

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Pecorino Romano cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

What is the best way to serve Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad?

This salad is perfect as a side dish or light lunch. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.

How do I ensure my kale stays fresh in the salad?

Make sure you wash and dry the kale thoroughly before adding it to the salad. Storing it in an airtight container will help maintain its freshness too.

Can I use other types of greens?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other greens like spinach or arugula for a unique twist on your Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad.

Final Thoughts

This Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. With its combination of textures and flavors from fresh ingredients, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or dressings for even more variety! Give this recipe a try today—you won’t be disappointed!