If you’re looking for a salad that strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, then this Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon is exactly what you need. It’s packed with nutrient-dense vegetables and vibrant flavors, making it a delightful addition to any table—whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a busy weeknight meal. The combination of fresh greens, crisp apples, sharp cheddar, and just the right amount of bacon creates a dish that everyone will love!
This salad isn’t just about taste; it’s also about versatility. You can serve it as a side at family gatherings or enjoy it as a light lunch. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this salad is perfect for those hectic days when time is short.
- Nutrient-packed goodness: Loaded with vitamins and minerals from Brussels sprouts and kale, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.
- Crowd-pleaser: The combination of flavors makes this salad appealing to both kids and adults alike—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the components ahead of time and toss them together right before serving for maximum freshness.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or looking for something special on a regular night, this salad fits right in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this delicious salad, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple but wholesome—perfect for creating something truly special without too much fuss.
For the Salad
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 1 large bunch kale (any variety)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 Granny Smith apple (diced or julienned; peeling optional)
- ⅓ cup pecans (toasted and roughly chopped)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (diced)
- 5 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled; bacon fat reserved)
For the Vinaigrette
- 1 small shallot (minced)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 tablespoon reserved bacon fat (warmed up to liquify if solid)
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Go vegan: Replace the bacon with crispy chickpeas and swap out the cheese for your favorite non-dairy option.
- Add more crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an extra layer of texture.
- Change up the greens: Feel free to substitute spinach or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- Sweeten it up: Try adding some diced pears instead of apples for a sweeter twist.
How to Make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Step 1: Prepare the Greens
Clean and remove any brown or yellow leaves from the Brussels sprouts. Slice or shave them as thinly as you can. Using a mandoline slicer makes this process much easier! Once prepared, add them to a large bowl.
Step 2: Chop the Kale
Remove the tough stems from the kale. Stack the leaves and roll them like a cigar before slicing them into thin ribbons. This technique not only looks beautiful but also helps ensure that each bite has a good mix of flavors. Add these ribbons to the bowl with your Brussels sprouts.
Step 3: Massage the Greens
Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over your greens and sprinkle with salt. Use clean hands to massage them gently until they’re fully coated with oil. This step softens the leaves and enhances their flavor—don’t skip it!
Step 4: Mix in Fruits and Nuts
Now it’s time to add in some tasty extras! Toss in your diced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Each ingredient adds its own delightful flavor to create a well-rounded dish.
Step 5: Whisk Together the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, combine minced shallots, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly stream in the remaining olive oil along with warmed bacon fat while whisking until everything is emulsified. Taste your vinaigrette—you want it perfectly seasoned!
Step 6: Assemble Your Salad
Pour that lovely vinaigrette over your salad ingredients. Toss everything together until thoroughly combined so every bite is filled with flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy its freshness!
Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Elevate your salad-making game with these handy tips!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts and kale make all the difference in flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, unblemished leaves to ensure the best taste.
Toast Your Nuts: Toasting the pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to your salad.
Massage the Greens: Don’t skip the step of massaging the kale and Brussels sprouts! This helps to soften them and makes them more palatable, ensuring a more enjoyable eating experience.
Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the vinaigrette according to your taste. Adding a bit more honey or vinegar can create a balance that suits your palate perfectly.
Serve Fresh: For optimal crunch and flavor, serve this salad immediately after dressing it. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
How to Serve Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Presentation can enhance any dish! Here are some ideas on how to serve this vibrant salad beautifully.
Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Extra Cheese Shavings: A few shavings of sharp cheddar can take this salad over the top, adding richness and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy complement the salad’s crunchy elements while providing a nice contrast in flavor.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs pairs well with this salad for a heartier meal option.
- Grilled Chicken: Simple grilled chicken breasts seasoned with lemon and herbs make for a protein-packed addition that balances the flavors in this dish.
- Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with fresh herbs provides an easy side that adds a subtle flavor without overpowering your salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy healthy and delicious flavors throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and quality.
Freezing
- This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the fresh greens and apples.
- However, you can freeze any extra bacon if you have leftovers; just make sure it’s sealed properly.
Reheating
- If you’ve stored the salad with dressing, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
- For a warm option, consider reheating only the bacon separately and adding it back just before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Just add the dressing right before serving for the best flavor.
What can I substitute for bacon in Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon?
You could use crispy roasted chickpeas or sunflower seeds as a delicious alternative to bacon while still providing that satisfying crunch.
Is this Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s healthy and flavorful, making it a great choice for meal prep. Just keep components like cheese and dressing separate until serving.
How long will this salad last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is truly a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s perfect for any occasion, especially during those cozy fall gatherings. Happy cooking!
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
If you’re on the hunt for a salad that effortlessly combines health and indulgence, look no further than this vibrant Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar. Bursting with nutrient-rich ingredients, this dish features crisp Brussels sprouts and kale paired with sweet apples and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a delightful flavor harmony. The toasted pecans add an irresistible crunch, while the homemade vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully. Perfect for any occasion—from festive gatherings to quick weeknight dinners—this salad is sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 1 large bunch kale (any variety)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 Granny Smith apple (diced or julienned)
- ⅓ cup pecans (toasted and roughly chopped)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (diced)
- 1 small shallot (minced)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 tablespoon reserved bacon fat (warm)
Instructions
- Prepare the greens by cleaning and thinly slicing the Brussels sprouts. Chop the kale into ribbons after removing tough stems.
- Massage the greens with olive oil and salt until softened.
- Add diced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and sharp cheddar to the greens.
- Whisk together vinaigrette ingredients until emulsified, then pour over salad.
- Toss to combine and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
