Salads & Side dishes

Shaved brussels sprouts salad recipe

By Fatima · October 28, 2025

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Shaved Brussels sprouts salad is a fresh and crunchy dish that’s perfect for any time you want something light but full of flavor. The Brussels sprouts are thinly sliced, almost like cabbage, giving each bite a nice crispness that’s easy to enjoy. It often includes nuts or seeds for a little extra crunch, and a simple tangy dressing that brings it all together.

I love making this salad because it’s quick to put together, and it feels like a healthy treat without trying too hard. One of my favorite things is adding a handful of dried cranberries or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for a little surprise of sweetness or saltiness. I also like to toast some nuts like almonds or walnuts before tossing them in to get that richer flavor.

This salad is awesome served as a side dish at a family dinner or brought to a picnic. It’s a great way to enjoy Brussels sprouts raw, which keeps their bright color and snap. I often make extra because it’s a tasty lunch the next day, too. Honestly, once you try shaved Brussels sprouts salad, you might find yourself craving it more than cooked ones!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Brussels Sprouts

Fresh ones make all the difference. Shaving them thin helps reduce bitterness and adds a great crunch. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp knife works fine – just slice carefully!

Dried Cranberries

These add a lovely touch of sweetness. Feel free to swap them for raisins, chopped dried apricots, or even pomegranate seeds for a fresh twist.

Pecans or Walnuts

Toasting these nuts brings out their flavor and adds crunch. Almonds or sunflower seeds work well if you need a nut-free option.

Parmesan Cheese

This gives a nice salty punch. You can omit it for a dairy-free version or try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a similar savory note.

Dressing Ingredients

Lemon juice and olive oil create a bright, simple dressing. Dijon mustard helps emulsify it for a smooth coat. Honey balances the tang; use maple syrup if you prefer vegan sweetness.

How Do I Shave Brussels Sprouts Without Making a Mess or Hurting Myself?

Shaving Brussels sprouts can seem tricky because they’re small and dense. Here’s how I do it safely and cleanly:

• Rinse and trim the base off the sprouts.
• Use a mandoline slicer set to a thin slice for quick, even ribbons.
• If using a knife, cut carefully from top to bottom, removing strips one at a time.
• To prevent slipping, hold the sprout firmly and keep your fingers clear.
• Use a cut-resistant glove if you’re nervous about your fingers.

After shaving, toss the sprouts in a bowl to keep the mess contained. This method helps the salad come together quickly and safely every time.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mandoline slicer – makes shaving Brussels sprouts quick and creates even, thin ribbons.
• Large mixing bowl – gives plenty of room to toss the salad without spilling.
• Small bowl – perfect for whisking together the dressing ingredients.
• Whisk or fork – helps blend the dressing smoothly.
• Cutting board and sharp knife – useful if you don’t have a mandoline for slicing sprouts.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap dried cranberries for chopped apples or pears to add fresh, juicy sweetness.
• Add cooked bacon pieces for a smoky, salty touch that pairs well with the sprouts.
• Mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a creamier, tangy flavor.
• Toast pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch with a mild nutty taste.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, washed and trimmed
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup pecans (or walnuts), toasted
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This salad is quick and easy! You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep everything, including shaving the Brussels sprouts and making the dressing. Then, just 10 more minutes to let the flavors come together before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Shave the Brussels Sprouts:

Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, carefully shave the Brussels sprouts into thin ribbons. Place the shaved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl.

2. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and combined.

3. Toss the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the shaved Brussels sprouts. Toss well to coat all the sprouts with the dressing evenly.

4. Add the Extras:

Add dried cranberries and toasted pecans to the bowl. Toss gently so everything is mixed nicely.

5. Finish with Cheese and Rest:

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and give the salad one last gentle toss. Let it sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature to blend the flavors before serving.

Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Salad?

It’s best to use fresh Brussels sprouts since frozen ones can become mushy when thawed. If you only have frozen, thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before shaving.

How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may soften over time, so it’s best eaten fresh for maximum crunch.

Can I Substitute Nuts or Cheese?

Absolutely! Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or seeds like sunflower if you prefer. Parmesan can be replaced with feta or omitted for a dairy-free option.

Is It Okay to Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just whisk it again before tossing with the shaved Brussels sprouts for best flavor.