Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe

When it comes to refreshing fall flavors with a satisfying crunch and a touch of elegance, nothing beats a Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe. It’s crisp, creamy, and sweet with a nutty finish—a stunning side dish or light lunch that always surprises guests. Whether you’re planning for a holiday table or just need a vibrant no-lettuce salad, this dish brings both nutrition and sophistication to your plate.

Think of shaved Brussels sprout apple salad as your go-to fall slaw, packed with fiber-rich veggies, antioxidant-rich apples, and heart-healthy walnuts, all tied together with a zippy apple cider vinaigrette. Even better? It’s a make-ahead marvel and can transform your weeknight dinner or potluck spread in minutes.

Craving freshness with a twist? This recipe delivers crunch, color, and comfort—discover why it’s going viral on Pinterest and Google Discover.

Why You’ll Love This Brussels Sprout Salad

• 🕒 Quick & Easy: Just 15 minutes from prep to plate—no cooking required.
• 🥗 Fresh & Crunchy: A unique no-lettuce salad that’s satisfying and crisp.
• 🍎 Fall Flavor Explosion: Apples + walnuts + Parmesan = sweet, savory, and nutty balance.
• 🧠 Brain-Boosting Ingredients: Walnuts and EVOO support cognitive health.
• 💰 Budget-Friendly: Only a few fresh ingredients create a gourmet feel.
• 🧀 Customizable: Swap in pears, pecans, or feta for easy variations.
• 🥬 Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: A smart side dish for clean eating.
• 📦 Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays crunchy even after refrigeration.

Ingredients Breakdown (With Tips & Substitutions)

Ingredient	Function	Tips
Brussels Sprouts (4 cups, thinly sliced)	Base of the salad, adds crunch and earthy flavor	Use a mandoline or food processor for paper-thin shreds
Apple (1 large, Honeycrisp or Fuji)	Sweet contrast to sprouts	Slice thinly to match texture—Granny Smith for tang
Walnuts (½ cup, toasted)	Nutty depth, healthy fats	Toast in skillet for 3-4 mins for max flavor
Parmesan (½ cup, shaved)	Salty, creamy finish	Use a veggie peeler for wide shavings
Dried Cranberries (¼ cup, optional)	Sweetness and chew	Optional but perfect for contrast
Olive Oil (¼ cup)	Emulsifies dressing, adds richness	Use cold-pressed EVOO for flavor and health
Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tbsp)	Tangy brightness	Balances the bitterness of sprouts
Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp)	Sharpness and emulsifier	Adds depth to the dressing
Honey or Maple Syrup (1 tbsp)	Natural sweetness	Either works—use maple for fall flavor
Garlic (1 clove, minced)	Savory base note	Optional if you prefer a milder vinaigrette
Salt & Pepper (¼ tsp each)	Balances and enhances flavors	Adjust to taste

How to Make Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan

1. Prep Your Veggies
   Trim the Brussels sprouts and slice them as thinly as possible. A mandoline makes this effortless. Do the same for the apple—thin slices mean better texture distribution.
2. Toast the Walnuts
   In a dry pan over medium heat, toast walnuts until fragrant and golden (about 3 minutes). Let them cool slightly before chopping.
3. Make the Dressing
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified. This creates a creamy, tangy-sweet vinaigrette.
4. Combine and Toss
   In a large bowl, mix Brussels sprouts and apple slices. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat everything evenly.
5. Add Crunch & Cream
   Gently fold in toasted walnuts, shaved Parmesan, and dried cranberries if using.
6. Let It Marinate
   Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step softens the sprouts slightly and intensifies the taste.
7. Serve & Enjoy
   Plate the salad chilled or at room temperature for optimal crunch and brightness.

Featured Image

Crunchy, creamy, and colorful—this salad is pure autumn joy!

💡 Pro Tips & PAA Answers

❓ Can I eat raw Brussels sprouts in salad?

Absolutely! Shaving them thinly breaks down their dense texture and reduces bitterness. Marinating them in vinaigrette softens them without cooking.

❓ What dressing goes best with a Brussels sprout apple salad?

A sweet and tangy vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon, and honey is ideal. It balances the bitterness and enhances the apple’s sweetness.

❓ Can I make Brussels sprout salad ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Just wait to add the nuts and cheese until just before serving to retain texture.

🍽️ Best Ways to Serve

This apple walnut Brussels sprouts slaw pairs wonderfully with:

• Roasted turkey or chicken
• Butternut squash soup
• Holiday spreads (especially Thanksgiving!)
• Cheese boards or charcuterie
• Crusty artisan bread and a glass of white wine

Craving more fall flavors? Check out our Maple Roasted Sweet Potato Salad or Warm Pear & Arugula Slaw.

🧾 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220 kcal
Carbohydrates	14g
Protein	5g
Fat	16g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	8g
Vitamin C	60% DV
Calcium	12% DV
Iron	8% DV

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended—sprouts lose texture.
• Tip: Add fresh apple and Parmesan before serving leftovers for best taste.

❓ FAQs

🧀 What cheese pairs well with Brussels sprout salad?

Parmesan is classic, but goat cheese or crumbled blue cheese work beautifully too.

🍏 What apples are best for this salad?

Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for sweetness. Prefer tart? Use Granny Smith.

🔪 How do you shred Brussels sprouts for salad?

Use a mandoline, food processor with a slicing blade, or a sharp chef’s knife.

Can I use roasted Brussels sprouts instead?

Yes—but the texture and flavor shift. Great for a warm salad variation.

Variations to Try

• Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan or sub with vegan cheese
• Nut-Free: Swap walnuts for toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds
• Fruity: Use pears, pomegranate seeds, or dried cherries
• Savory Twist: Add crispy bacon or crumbled feta
• Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey

Conclusion & Social CTA

This Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe is more than a side dish—it’s a celebration of texture, taste, and health. Perfect for fall, yet craveable year-round, it brings together earthy sprouts, juicy apples, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese in one irresistible bowl.

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