Looking to impress your family or friends with a vibrant, tasty salad? This Brussels Sprout, Kale, and Apple Salad is just what you need! Imagine a mix of crispy greens, sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and savory bacon, all brought together with the creaminess of sharp cheddar cheese.
This salad is a tantalizing combination of textures and flavors, blending the earthy crunch of Brussels sprouts with the chewy, hearty kale. The juicy bites of apple add a refreshing sweetness, while the sharp cheddar cheese lends a creamy contrast. Bits of crispy bacon and crunchy pecans elevate this salad to a new level of deliciousness. It’s a salad that refuses to be ignored!
Here are a few reasons why this salad is worth making:
- Time-saving: Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights.
- Flavor-packed: Each bite bursts with contrasting flavors and textures.
- Nutritious: A great way to sneak in some veggies and healthy fats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 20 minutes
- Made with fresh, simple ingredients
- Great for meal prep throughout the week
- A delightful twist on traditional salads
Ingredients for Brussels Sprout, Kale and Apple Salad
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 apple, diced, any variety you like
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions of Brussels Sprout, Kale and Apple Salad
- Prepare the greens: In a large bowl, combine the sliced Brussels sprouts and chopped kale.
- Add the apple: Toss in the diced apple for that sweet crunch.
- Mix in cheese and bacon: Add the cubed sharp cheddar and crumbled bacon, making sure everything is well mixed.
- Toast the pecans: In a small pan, lightly toast the pecans for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Then, add to the salad.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Toss well: Gently toss all the ingredients in the bowl until everything is coated and mixed.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh kale and Brussels sprouts make all the difference in flavor.
- Mix it up: For added flavor, consider adding some dried fruit like cranberries or raisins.
- Taste as you go: Adjust dressing ingredients to suit your palate.
Substitutions & Variations of Brussels Sprout, Kale and Apple Salad
- To Make It Vegan/Gluten-Free: Swap out bacon for crispy chickpeas or tempeh for a plant-based option. Also, ensure the cheese is vegan.
- Variations: Add sunflower seeds for extra crunch or sprinkle in some feta for a tangy flavor boost.
Storage Instructions of Brussels Sprout, Kale and Apple Salad
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen overnight!
- Freezer: This salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients, but you can freeze any leftover dressing.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the ingredients in advance, keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions about Brussels Sprout, Kale and Apple Salad
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best for this salad, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well.What can I substitute for kale?
Feel free to use spinach or arugula instead, keeping in mind that they have different textures and flavors.Is this salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.
Final Toughts
This Brussels Sprout, Kale and Apple Salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Not only is it packed with flavor and crunch, but it’s also a nutritious option that can fit into a busy lifestyle. Give it a try and discover how delicious salads can be! If you enjoyed this recipe, feel free to leave a comment or a star rating below. Happy eating!
Print
Brussels Sprout, Kale and Apple Salad
A vibrant salad combining crispy Brussels sprouts, hearty kale, sweet apples, crunchy pecans, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory bacon.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced Brussels sprouts and chopped kale.
- Toss in the diced apple for that sweet crunch.
- Add the cubed sharp cheddar and crumbled bacon, ensuring everything is well mixed.
- In a small pan, lightly toast the pecans for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant, then add them to the salad.
- Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Gently toss all the ingredients in the bowl until everything is coated and mixed.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Consider adding dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free