• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Food Sharing Vegan logo
  • Home
  • About
  • Cookbooks
  • Podcast
  • Recipes
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Home
  • About
  • Cookbooks
  • Podcast
  • Recipes
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Home
    • About
    • Cookbooks
    • Podcast
    • Recipes
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    Home » Side Dish

    Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

    Sep 23, 2022 · 23 Comments

    • Facebook
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Just 9 ingredients make up this simple shaved Brussels sprout salad with apples and cranberries—a fresh, crunchy, and colorful winter salad perfect for your holiday table and lunchboxes all under 30 minutes!

    completed Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad plated against a white surface with ingredients in the background

    Fresh, Crisp, Vibrant Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

    There seems to be a universal agreement that boiled (often soggy) Brussels sprouts are no one’s favorite. However, I’m of the mindset that if you don’t like sprouts, you haven’t tried them in the right recipe yet. Take this shaved Brussels sprout salad with cranberries and apples, for example.

    Not only is this Brussels sprout apple salad a great winter salad, but with the addition of crisp apple, crunchy walnuts and pumpkin seeds, and sweet-tart cranberries all tossed in an aromatic vinaigrette, it also makes for the most delicious Thanksgiving salad or Christmas salad to add some freshness to the occasion.

    Even better, this Brussels sprout apple salad is made with just a handful of ingredients tossed in a simple vinaigrette and takes just minutes to prepare. You can even shave (see what I did there?) away almost all the prep time by using pre-shredded Brussels sprouts!

    Best of all, this shredded Brussels sprouts salad with cranberries is the perfect addition to any holiday potluck or party, as the sturdy sprouts hold up well outside the fridge. You can even prep it several hours in advance. Plus, with several options for substitutes and add-ins, you can tweak this recipe with minimal added effort!

    The Ingredients

    This shaved Brussels sprout salad recipe is fresh, crisp, crunchy, sweet, savory, and all with just 9 ingredients!

    ingredients for Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad against a white background

    The Brussels Sprout Apple Salad:

    • Brussels sprouts: Choose raw Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green, avoiding any that are yellowing.
    • Apple: I like to use a sweet-tart apple like a Honeycrisp or Fuji, but you can experiment with sweet vs. tart varieties to find your favorite.
    • Nuts and seeds: I use a combination of chopped walnuts (or pecans, though even pistachios would work) and pumpkin seeds for this Brussels sprout and apple salad. For a nut-free version, use sunflower seeds in place of the walnuts. Pine nuts would also work.
    • Cranberries: Dried cranberries (or dried cherries/raisins) make for a delicious sweet and tangy addition to this Thanksgiving green salad. To reduce sugar and for a fresher salad, you could make this shaved Brussels sprouts salad recipe with pomegranate.

    The Brussels Sprout Salad Dressing:

    • Olive oil: Use high-quality light olive oil for the best flavor.
    • Vinegar: I like to use a sweeter variety of vinegar (apple cider vinegar) for this Brussels sprout salad dressing. However, you could also try red wine vinegar, sherry vinegar, or lemon juice.
    • Sweetener: To add subtle sweetness, I’ve used agave in this vegan Brussels sprouts salad. However, maple syrup or any other liquid sweetener would work. For a sugar-free option, I recommend using a maple syrup alternative.
    • Orange juice: (optional) To add a citrusy depth to the dressing, I love to add just a tablespoon of orange juice.
    • Mint: I love the aromatic addition of minced mint. However, omit it if preferred or use a different fresh herb like green onions.

    You may also like to season the salad with salt & black pepper, to taste.

    What Could I Add?

    There are several ways to boost the nutrients, flavor, and heartiness of this Brussels sprout apple salad with the optional add-ins below.

    • Kale: A kale and Brussels sprout salad is a popular Thanksgiving salad option. You can use curly kale or Tuscan kale, finely shredded.

    You can massage the kale with some of the vinaigrette to help tenderize the leaves. If you’re leaving the salad to marinate over several hours, there’s no need.

    • Broccoli: Shredded broccoli is another delicious fresh veg to add to this winter salad.
    • Vegan cheese: A sprinkle of nutritional yeast would mimic a parmesan flavor. Alternatively, a crumbly vegan cheese like a feta alternative could work for creaminess, too.
    • Brussels sprout pasta salad: For a heartier meal (and to make use of leftovers), toss in some leftover pasta—larger shapes or small orzo pasta would be best. I’ve even used giant couscous before.
    • Brussels sprout quinoa salad: Add quinoa to the mix for a heartier AND protein-dense Christmas salad/winter salad. Adjust the ratio to your liking based on whether you want a sprout-heavy or quinoa-heavy salad.
    • Mustard: Add a small amount of Dijon mustard to the dressing for extra heat and tang.
    • Garlic: Adjust the amount to taste.
    • Shallots: Thinly sliced (red onions work, too) to add extra tang and subtle heat.

    How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad?

    Follow just four simple steps to prepare this fresh, crunchy, and delicious Brussels sprout salad recipe.

    • 1) First, rinse and prepare the Brussels sprouts by removing any wilting or dry outer leaves and trimming the ends. Then, shred the Brussels sprouts with a knife (slow!), mandoline, box grater, or slicing disk on a food processor.
    whole and shredded brussels sprouts against a cutting board
    • 2) Also, thinly slice the apples, then transfer everything to a large bowl.
    process of slicing apples on a cutting board
    ingredients for Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad sliced in a standard bowl

    I like to cut apples two ways. First into thin slices, then slice the inner edge off of them to make little apple matchsticks.

    • 3) Meanwhile, prepare the vinaigrette dressing by combining all the dressing ingredients into a bowl and whisking well.
    dressing ingredients for Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad measured out against a brown surface

    Even better, I recommend making this 20-30 minutes in advance to allow the flavors to meld.

    • 4) Add the walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries to the large bowl, pour in the dressing and then toss the salad well to ensure it’s thoroughly mixed and coated.
    process shot of pouring dressing onto salad ingredients in a bowl
    post mixing of dressing and salad ingredients together in a bowl

    For the best flavor, allow the Brussels sprout and apple salad to sit for 15-20 minutes before giving it one final taste to adjust any of the seasonings/dressing ingredients.

    Then, enjoy this as a delicious side dish or main course alongside all your other favorite Thanksgiving sides like vegan stuffing, candied yams, and garlic-herb roasted vegetables!

    FAQs

    Can you eat Brussels sprouts raw?

    Absolutely. They’re wonderfully crisp and packed with various nutrients, including high levels of antioxidants, vitamin K and vitamin C, folate, and fiber. Plus, smaller amounts of potassium, iron, and vitamin b6. They are also a good source of vegan omega-3 fatty acids.

    This combination is great for digestive health, heart health, brain health, the immune system, bones, blood, blood sugar levels, and more.

    Why is my shredded Brussels sprout salad bitter?

    Some sprouts may occasionally taste bitter. However, I’ve found that the dressing for this shaved Brussels sprout salad does a wonderful job at balancing that flavor, especially when left to meld for 20-30 minutes before serving.

    Can I freeze shredded Brussels sprouts?

    Brussels sprouts freeze very well, though not when raw. Without blanching the sprouts, they won’t maintain their crisp texture, color, or nutrients upon thawing. The shelf life is also shorter than freezing blanched sprouts.

    Top Recipe Tips and Notes

    • Tweak the dressing to your liking: You can adapt any of the dressing ingredients to your liking. I.e., more vinegar for tartness, agave for sweetness, possibly adding salt and pepper, etc.
    • Leave the salad to sit: If nothing else, I strongly recommend preparing the dressing at least 30 minutes in advance (or the night before). But, if you have time, I recommend preparing the entire salad and leaving the flavors to meld for 30 minutes minimum. This makes a more well-rounded, melded flavor.
    • To save time: Either purchase pre-shredded sprouts (my 2nd choice, as you lose out on freshness) OR use a slicing disk on your food processor to get the job done in practically seconds.
    completed Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad plated against a white surface

    Storage Recommendations

    Make ahead: Prepare the salad (minus the apples) and dressing and store them separately in the fridge for 1-2 days. Then, add the apples and dressing right before serving.

    Alternatively, assemble the entire Brussels sprout salad with vinaigrette and leave it to marinate for several hours before you’re ready to serve.

    Note that the longer you leave the salad to chill, the more tender the sprouts will become. Though they’re hearty enough not to become soggy quickly.

    Store: Once fully assembled, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. It will be freshest within 1-2 and tastes even better on day two!

    More Vegan Fall Side Dishes

    • Instant Pot garlic mashed potatoes
    • Garlic Herb Oven Roasted Vegetables
    • Crispy Hasselback potatoes
    • Air Fryer Asparagus
    • Instant Pot Apple Cider

    If you try this easy shredded Brussels sprout salad recipe, I’d love to know what you think in the comments below. I’d also really appreciate a recipe card rating!

    Photos by Alfonso Revilla

    completed Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad plated against a white surface with ingredients in the background
    completed Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad plated against a white surface with ingredients in the background

    Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad

    Just 9 ingredients make up this simple shaved Brussel sprout salad with apples and cranberries. It's a fresh, crunchy, and colorful winter salad perfect for your holiday table and lunchboxes all under 30 minutes!
    5 from 60 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 mins
    Cook Time 0 mins
    Total Time 15 mins
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Servings 4
    Calories 318 kcal

    Equipment

    • measuring spoons
    • measuring cups
    • my favorite knives
    • standard bowl

    Ingredients
      

    For the dressing:

    • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
    • 2 teaspoons of agave
    • 1 ½ teaspoon of minced mint
    • 1 tablespoon of orange juice (optional)

    For the salad:

    • 1 pound of brussels sprouts shredded
    • 1 Honeycrisp apple
    • ½ cup of chopped walnuts
    • ¼ cup of pumpkin seeds
    • ½ cup of dried cranberries

    Instructions
     

    • In a standard bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, agave, mint, and orange juice (if using), until thoroughly combined.
    • Add the brussels sprouts, apple, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries to a large bowl.
    • Pour in the dressing and toss it together.

    Notes

    • Tweak the dressing to your liking: You can adapt any of the dressing ingredients to your liking. I.e., more vinegar for tartness, agave for sweetness, possibly adding salt and pepper, etc.
    • Leave the salad to sit: If nothing else, I strongly recommend preparing the dressing at least 30 minutes in advance (or the night before). But, if you have time, I recommend preparing the entire salad and leaving the flavors to meld for 30 minutes minimum. This makes a more well-rounded, melded flavor.
    • To save time: Either purchase pre-shredded sprouts (my 2nd choice, as you lose out on freshness) OR use a slicing disk on your food processor to get the job done in practically seconds.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 318kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 7gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 9gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.003gSodium: 31mgPotassium: 609mgFiber: 7gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 893IUVitamin C: 102mgCalcium: 69mgIron: 3mg
    Keyword brussels sprout, dairy free, dressing, egg free, fruits, fruity salads, holiday recipes, salad recipes, vegan, vegan appetizer, vegetarian, veggies, winter salad
    Did you make this recipe?Mention @foodsharingvegan on Instagram!

    Disclaimer: Although foodsharingvegan.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Foodsharingvegan.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.

    More Side Dish

    • Vegan Candied Yams with Marshmallows
    • The Best Cauliflower Stuffing
    • Easy Cranberry Pear Sauce
    • Brown Sugar Green Beans [No Bacon]

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Andrea says

      September 23, 2022 at 3:09 am

      5 stars
      Such a great side dish for the holidays!

      Reply
    2. Beatriz says

      September 26, 2022 at 9:42 am

      5 stars
      I'm for sure making this for the holidays! So good...

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        October 02, 2022 at 11:17 pm

        Oh it's a winner!

        Reply
    3. Rachel says

      September 26, 2022 at 5:16 pm

      5 stars
      Love this simple salad! It's so flavorful yet easy to make!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        October 02, 2022 at 11:19 pm

        So simple and so delicious! Perfect for your fall table!

        Reply
    4. Gina H. says

      September 27, 2022 at 5:06 pm

      5 stars
      I never thought I would love brussels sprouts, but this recipe made them taste wonderful!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        October 02, 2022 at 11:21 pm

        It wins you over alright! So glad you enjoyed them 🙂

        Reply
    5. Janaye says

      September 29, 2022 at 7:02 pm

      5 stars
      Sometimes I have issues with whole brussel sprouts maybe this salad would work for me

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        October 02, 2022 at 11:24 pm

        You'd love this one!

        Reply
    6. Teodora says

      October 02, 2022 at 4:12 pm

      5 stars
      Great idea for these autumn days!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        October 02, 2022 at 11:25 pm

        Yesss! They go so well with your fall dishes!

        Reply
    7. Tavo says

      November 28, 2022 at 7:58 pm

      5 stars
      Loved the recipe! I think the mint added a really nice touch! Thank you!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        January 09, 2023 at 3:33 am

        So glad you enjoyed it! The mint does bring out something special to it!

        Reply
    8. Holly says

      November 28, 2022 at 9:56 pm

      5 stars
      This salad was enjoyed by all. Very nice for the holidays!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        January 09, 2023 at 3:33 am

        So glad everyone enjoyed them!

        Reply
    9. nancy says

      November 28, 2022 at 11:06 pm

      5 stars
      shaved brussel sprouts is such a great way to enjoy brussel sprouts! It gives it a nice delicate touch! thanks for the great salad!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        January 09, 2023 at 3:32 am

        Agreed! Such a yummy way to enjoy them 🙂

        Reply
    10. Cindy says

      November 29, 2022 at 1:42 am

      5 stars
      So delicious & flavorful! Brussel sprouts are a great addition.

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        January 09, 2023 at 3:32 am

        Aren't they?! So great to add to any meal!

        Reply
    11. Katie says

      November 29, 2022 at 1:49 pm

      5 stars
      This brussels sprout salad is absolutely perfect! I love the texture!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        January 09, 2023 at 3:30 am

        Right?! The texture is so spot on!

        Reply
    12. Sal K. says

      December 09, 2022 at 7:04 pm

      5 stars
      This was so good and easily adaptable! I didn’t have Brussels so I used cabbage and kale. I didn’t have orange juice so I used unsweetened cranberry juice. I didn’t have dried cranberries so I used a mix of diced dried figs and apricots.

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        December 19, 2022 at 5:34 am

        Way to make it work! Your combination of different ingredients sound super delicious too!

        Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Toni. Welcome to Food Sharing Vegan. Here you'll find comforting, delicious, vegan recipes to share with friends and family.

    Fall Favorites

    • The Best Cauliflower Stuffing
    • Instant Pot Apple Cider
    • Air Fryer Butternut Squash [Cubes + Halves]
    • Vegan Candied Yams with Marshmallows

    Breakfast Recipes

    • Vegan Avocado Toast
    • Vegan Cinnamon and Banana Pecan Muffins
    • Easy Vegan Pumpkin Muffins
    • Easy Vegan Pumpkin Pancakes

    Footer

    As Featured On

    Terms

    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Terms & Conditions
    • Accessibility Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign up for emails and updates

    About

    • About
    • Contact
    • Cookbook
    • Podcast

    ↑ back to top

    • facebook
    • instagram
    • pinterest

    Copyright © 2022 Food Sharing Vegan