Name: Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad: Fall's Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Brussels Sprouts (Use larger sprouts for easier shredding); 4 cups Kale (Any variety works, Tuscan preferred); 1 large Granny Smith Apple (Dice or julienne); 1 cup Pecans (Toast for maximum flavor); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries; 1 cup Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Opt for aged varieties); 4 slices Bacon (Regular sliced is ideal); 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1 tsp Salt (Adjust according to taste); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Adjust according to taste); 1 small Shallot (Finely chopped); 3 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon Mustard; 1 tbsp Honey

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisper, I find myself craving vibrant dishes that echo the flavors of fall. That’s where my Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon comes in—a delightful medley that beautifully balances healthiness with indulgence. This nutrient-dense salad is not only a refreshing addition to your Thanksgiving table, but it shines as a perfect side dish for those family gatherings where comfort food steals the spotlight. With quick prep time and a kaleidoscope of flavors—from crunchy greens to sweet apples—you’ll love how this salad effortlessly enhances your holiday feast. Curious about how to bring that festive crunch to your plate? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Freshness in Every Bite: This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad bursts with vibrant flavors that scream fall.

Nutrient-Dense Delight: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, it’s not just tasty but also a powerhouse of nutrients—perfect for health-conscious eaters.

Perfect for Gatherings: Whether served as a side or a main dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser at Thanksgiving or family gatherings, standing out among indulgent options.

Quick Prep: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this dish is an easy addition to any meal, allowing you more time to enjoy with family and friends.

Appealing Textures: The mix of crispy greens, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans gives this salad an exciting depth that keeps every bite interesting.

For similarly delicious options, check out my Mini Egg Salad or try the Apple Cinnamon German Pancake for more fall flavors!

Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Brussels Sprouts – Use larger sprouts for easier shredding and a crunchier texture.
Kale – Any variety works, but Tuscan kale is preferred for its hearty texture.
Granny Smith Apple – Provides a tart sweetness; dice or julienne and keep fresh until serving.
Pecans – Toast for maximum flavor; they add a delightful crunch to the salad.
Dried Cranberries – Adds sweetness and slight chewiness; fresh cranberries can be a vibrant substitute.
Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Opt for aged varieties for a bold flavor that complements the salad well.
Bacon – Adds savory depth; regular sliced is ideal; use the fat for the vinaigrette.

For the Dressing

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds healthy fats and richness; reserve a portion for the vinaigrette.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors; adjust according to your taste.
Shallot – Adds a mild onion flavor; finely chop for a smoother dressing experience.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance the dish’s flavors.
Dijon Mustard – Emulsifies the dressing and adds a zesty kick.
Honey – Sweetens the dressing and counters the vinegar’s acidity.

This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad is sure to brighten up your holiday table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad

Step 1: Prepare Base
Begin by preparing your Brussels sprouts for the salad. Rinse them under cold water, removing any damaged leaves. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, thinly slice or shave the Brussels sprouts into thin discs. Aim for even thickness for consistent texture; this should take about 5–10 minutes.

Step 2: Kale Prep
Next, it’s time to prep the kale. Remove the tough stems and tear or slice the leaves into thin ribbons, creating a more delicate texture that will blend well with the Brussels sprouts. Add the sliced kale to the bowl with the shredded Brussels sprouts, allowing for a colorful and nutrient-packed base for your salad.

Step 3: Massage Greens
To enhance the flavors of your greens, drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Gently massage the mixture for about 2–3 minutes, which will soften the kale and Brussels sprouts. The greens should be well-coated and slightly wilted, making them tender and ready to absorb other flavors in the Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad.

Step 4: Add Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add the delightful extras to the salad! Mix in the diced Granny Smith apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, crumbled sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the components are evenly distributed and complement the vibrant greens.

Step 5: Make Vinaigrette
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the finely chopped shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. After combining the base ingredients, slowly drizzle in the remaining olive oil and reserved bacon fat while whisking continuously to emulsify the vinaigrette, aiming for a smooth and silky texture.

Step 6: Combine
Lastly, pour the freshly made vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring everything is coated in that tangy goodness. Toss well to combine all the flavors of the Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad. Serve immediately for the best freshness, or let it sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad Variations

Feel free to play around with different ingredients to make this salad your own and delight your taste buds!

Nut Swap: Substitute pecans with walnuts for a slightly different crunch and a nutty twist that’ll complement the salad beautifully.
Apple Variety: Switch up the apple by using Honey Crisp or Fuji for an added layer of sweetness that enhances the fall flavors.
Vegan Option: Replace bacon with tempeh or a vegan bacon alternative for a plant-based twist that remains savory and satisfying.
Cheese Alternatives: Try feta or goat cheese in place of cheddar for a tangy flavor difference that enhances the salad’s creamy elements.
Add Greens: Mix in arugula or spinach for a peppery kick and a vibrant green color, giving your salad even more freshness.
Heat It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the vinaigrette for a spicy note that creates a delightful contrast with the sweet apples.
Crunchy Toppings: Toss in some crispy fried onions or chickpeas for an exciting texture variation that adds even more crunch.
Cranberry Replacement: Use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones for a burst of tartness, making your salad pop with flavor and color.

As you customize this delicious salad, don’t forget to check out my Apple Goat Cheese Croissant Sandwich for another fantastic fall-inspired option or the comforting Sticky Apple Cider Chicken for a savory main course!

Expert Tips for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad

Use a Mandoline: A mandoline slicer ensures evenly thin Brussels sprouts, enhancing your salad’s texture and presentation.
Fresh Apple Slices: To prevent browning, add the diced Granny Smith apple right before serving. This keeps your salad looking fresh and appealing.
Perfectly Toasted Pecans: Toast your pecans in a dry skillet until fragrant to maximize their flavor. This adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
Balance Your Dressing: Taste your vinaigrette before adding to the salad. Adjust sweetness with honey, or acidity with apple cider vinegar to suit your preference.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store it separately. This allows for quick assembly when you’re ready to serve your Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad!
Keep It Cozy: If you like a little warmth, serve the salad slightly warmed—especially if using bacon straight from cooking, as it adds a comforting touch!

How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the greens fresh, add apples and pecans just before serving.

Vinaigrette: The dressing can be made up to 5 days in advance and kept in the fridge in a sealed jar. Shake well before using to re-emulsify.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the fresh components will lose their crispness and texture once thawed.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy your salad slightly warm, gently warm the greens in a pan for a few minutes. Avoid heating the apples and dressing to maintain freshness in your Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad.

What to Serve with Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad

This delightful salad brings a vibrant mix of flavors and textures, perfect for enhancing your holiday table.

Roasted Turkey: A classic pairing, the savory, juicy turkey complements the salad’s fresh and zesty elements beautifully.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast, grounding the dish and making it heartier.
Stuffing: Rich, herb-infused stuffing adds a warm base to your meal, helping balance the salad’s crunchy, crisp notes.
Cranberry Sauce: Sweet and tart cranberry sauce brightens every bite, tying in perfectly with the salad’s cranberries and apples.
Pumpkin Soup: A smooth, spiced pumpkin soup warms the palate, offering a cozy touch that harmonizes with the salad’s fall flavors.
Savory Cheese Board: A selection of sharp and creamy cheeses enhances the cheddar in your salad, while bread and crackers provide delightful texture.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This refreshing drink echoes the apple in the salad and complements its savory notes without overshadowing them.

Pairing this Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with these sides creates a beautifully balanced feast that celebrates the season!

Make Ahead Options

These Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad components are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the salad base—shredded Brussels sprouts and kale—up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating them in an airtight container. For optimal freshness, mix the vinaigrette and add it just before serving. You can also toast the pecans and crumble the bacon up to 3 days ahead, storing them separately to maintain their crunch. Keep the diced apples fresh by adding them right before you toss the salad, preventing browning. With these simple make-ahead techniques, you’ll save time and ensure your salad remains just as delicious and vibrant when it’s time to feast!

Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Choose Brussels sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green. Avoid any that have yellowing leaves or dark spots all over, as these can indicate age or spoilage. A perfect sprout will feel heavy for its size—aim for larger, more mature sprouts for easier shredding!

How should I store leftover Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remember to add the apples and pecans just before serving to retain their crunch. If you’ve mixed in the dressing, try to eat it sooner, ideally within 24 hours, for the best taste and texture!

Can I freeze Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad?
Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the fresh ingredients will lose their crunch and texture upon thawing. If you need to make ahead, prep the components separately— store the salad greens in the fridge and freeze any unused vinaigrette in ice cube trays for future use!

How can I make the dressing for the salad more flavorful?
To enhance the dressing, taste and adjust! If it feels too tangy, add a bit more honey for sweetness. For extra depth, include a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Whisk together well and drizzle it over the salad for that perfect balance of flavors!

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Certainly! This salad can easily be made gluten-free by substituting bacon with a plant-based alternative. Also, if you’re prepping for someone with nut allergies, feel free to replace pecans with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without the worry.