If you’re looking for a salad that combines the vibrant flavors of fall with healthy ingredients, then this Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is just what you need! It’s a delightful dish that captures the essence of the season while being perfect for any occasion — whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive Thanksgiving feast. The combination of crisp Brussels sprouts, hearty kale, and sweet apples creates an explosion of flavor that is sure to impress your family and friends.
What makes this salad special is its ability to balance healthy eating with indulgent touches. Packed with nutrient-dense vegetables and just enough sharp cheddar and bacon to make it irresistible, you’ll find it hard to believe how easy it is to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of crunchy veggies, tart apples, and savory cheese makes every bite a delight.
- Perfect for Sharing: This dish serves six, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare the components in advance and toss them together right before serving.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize based on what’s in your pantry or personal preferences!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that are both delicious and nutritious. Here’s what you will need to create your own Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon:
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)
- â…“ 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
One of the best things about this salad is its flexibility! You can easily adapt the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
- Add more crunch: Toss in some shredded carrots or sliced radishes for an added crunch.
- Go vegan: Omit the bacon and cheese, substituting them with roasted chickpeas and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Spice it up: Drizzle some hot honey over the salad for a sweet heat that complements the flavors beautifully.
- Switch the greens: Try using spinach or arugula instead of kale for a different leafy green experience.
How to Make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Step 1: Prepare the Greens
Start by cleaning your Brussels sprouts. Remove any brown or yellow leaves and slice or shave them as thin as possible. Using a mandoline slicer can make this job much easier! Add these lovely greens into a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Slice the Kale
Next, remove the tough stems from your bunch of kale. Stack the leaves, roll them like a cigar, and slice them into thin ribbons. This helps break down the leaves slightly so they’re easier to eat. Add these vibrant ribbons to your bowl along with the Brussels sprouts.
Step 3: Massage Your Greens
Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over your greens and sprinkle with salt. Now comes the fun part! Use clean hands to gently squeeze and massage the greens until they’re well coated in oil. This not only enhances their flavor but also softens them slightly—making them more enjoyable to eat!
Step 4: Mix in Fruits & Nuts
Now it’s time to add in all those delicious extras! Toss in diced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, diced sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Each ingredient adds layers of texture and taste that truly elevate this salad.
Step 5: Whisk Up Your Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly stream in the remaining three tablespoons of olive oil along with warmed bacon fat while whisking continuously until everything emulsifies beautifully. Taste it—adjust seasoning if needed!
Step 6: Combine Everything
Pour that luscious vinaigrette over your colorful salad mixture and toss until everything is thoroughly combined. Serve immediately for maximum freshness! Enjoy this delightful blend of flavors at your next gathering or simply as a healthy weeknight meal!
Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Creating this delicious salad is a breeze with just a few helpful tips!
Use a Mandoline for Slicing: Investing in a mandoline slicer can save you time and ensure even slices of Brussels sprouts, which helps them blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
Massage the Greens: Massaging the kale and Brussels sprouts not only enhances their flavor but also makes them more tender, creating a better texture for your salad.
Toast Your Nuts: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the salad will amplify their flavor and add a delightful crunch that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Adjust the Vinaigrette: Don’t hesitate to tweak the vinaigrette to suit your taste. Adding extra honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tang can personalize the salad to your liking.
Serve Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve the salad immediately after tossing it with the vinaigrette. This keeps everything crisp and vibrant.
How to Serve Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some ideas on how to present and enhance your dish.
Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for an added layer of freshness and color.
- Extra Cheese: Grate additional sharp cheddar over the top just before serving to enhance its cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy components of the salad, adding depth to your meal.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs can serve as a great complement, providing protein and a nutty flavor that balances well.
- Grilled Chicken: For those wanting more protein, grilled chicken breast seasoned simply can be served alongside or atop the salad.
- Herbed Rice: A fluffy herb-infused rice adds a comforting touch while allowing the flavors of your salad to shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is perfect for meal prep! Making it ahead of time not only saves you effort but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store it properly:
Storing Leftovers
- Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It’s best consumed within 3 days for the freshest taste.
- If possible, keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
- This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the fresh ingredients that may lose texture and flavor.
- However, you can freeze components like roasted pecans or cooked bacon separately if desired.
Reheating
- If you prefer warmed bacon, reheat it in a skillet over low heat until crispy.
- It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so avoid reheating the entire salad.
FAQs
Can I make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until serving for optimal freshness.
What can I substitute for bacon in Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon?
For a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tempeh or crispy chickpeas to add that delicious crunch without using bacon.
How long does Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon last in the fridge?
This salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this salad a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this delightful Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that will brighten up any meal. Remember, cooking should be fun and rewarding—so gather your ingredients and dive into this recipe. Happy cooking!
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Turkey
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad featuring sharp cheddar and turkey. This nutritious dish bursts with fall flavors, combining the crispiness of fresh Brussels sprouts and kale with the sweetness of diced Granny Smith apples. Tossed with toasted pecans and dried cranberries, it delivers a delightful crunch in every bite. Finished off with a tangy homemade vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a healthy weeknight meal. With its effortless preparation and impressive taste, it’s sure to be a new favorite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 1 large bunch kale
- 1 Granny Smith apple
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- â…“ cup pecans
- 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Clean the Brussels sprouts, removing brown leaves, and slice them thinly.
- Remove tough stems from the kale, stack leaves, roll them, and slice into ribbons.
- Massage greens with olive oil and salt until well coated.
- Add diced apples, toasted pecans, cranberries, and diced cheddar to the bowl.
- Whisk together shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, and remaining olive oil.
- Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Leave a Comment