If you’re looking for a salad that perfectly balances health and indulgence, my Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon is just the ticket! This delightful dish combines the earthiness of Brussels sprouts and kale with the sweetness of apples and the savory goodness of bacon and cheddar. It’s not only a hit at Thanksgiving but also makes for a fantastic side at family gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
This salad is special because it’s easy to whip up and packs a punch of flavor in every bite. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll find yourself craving this vibrant dish all season long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a stunning salad ready to impress.
- Nutrient-packed: Loaded with vegetables, this salad offers vitamins and minerals while still being delicious.
- Family-friendly: The combination of flavors makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Make-ahead goodness: Prep the ingredients in advance for an easy assembly when you’re ready to serve!
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or as a light meal on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon, you won’t need anything fancy—just fresh produce and pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
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 liquefy if solid)
Variations
One of the best things about this salad is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Swap the greens: Use spinach or arugula instead of kale for a different flavor profile.
- Try different nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds to add your favorite crunch.
- Add proteins: Toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken for an extra protein boost.
- Go vegan: Omit the bacon and cheese altogether; substitute with crispy chickpeas for texture.
How to Make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Clean your Brussels sprouts by removing any brown or yellow leaves. Slice or shave them as thinly as possible. Using a mandoline slicer can make this step much easier! Once sliced, add them to a large bowl. This base will bring that wonderful earthy flavor that pairs so nicely with sweet apples.
Step 2: Chop the Kale
Next, remove the tough stems from your kale. Stack the leaves together, roll them up like a cigar, and slice them into thin ribbons. Add these ribbons into your bowl alongside the Brussels sprouts. Massaging these greens with olive oil helps soften them while enhancing their flavor!
Step 3: Massage Your Greens
Drizzle about one tablespoon of olive oil over your greens and sprinkle them generously with salt. With clean hands, give them a good squeeze! This step not only coats them beautifully but reduces their volume while making them tender—so don’t skip it!
Step 4: Mix in Fruits & Nuts
Now it’s time to add in those lovely crunchy elements—toss in diced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon into your bowl. Each addition brings its own unique taste that complements our star ingredients wonderfully.
Step 5: Whisk Together the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Gradually stream in the remaining olive oil and warmed-up bacon fat while whisking until it’s emulsified. Tasting as you go ensures perfect seasoning—and trust me, you’ll want to get this right!
Step 6: Assemble Your Salad
Pour that gorgeous vinaigrette over your salad mix and toss everything together until well combined. Serve immediately for best results! Enjoy every flavorful bite of your Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon—it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Creating a delicious salad is all about the details, so here are some tips to ensure your salad shines!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts and kale will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad, making it more enjoyable and nutritious.
- Toast the pecans: Toasting the nuts before adding them brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor, giving your salad an extra crunch.
- Massage the greens: Massaging the kale and Brussels sprouts with olive oil softens them, making them easier to chew and more palatable in raw salads.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare all components in advance (except for the dressing) and assemble just before serving to save time while maintaining freshness.
- Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey in the vinaigrette based on your taste preferences or the tartness of the apples.
How to Serve Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
This vibrant salad not only tastes great but also looks stunning when presented. Here are some ideas to make your dish stand out!
Garnishes
- Pomegranate seeds: These add a pop of color and a burst of sweetness that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling fresh parsley or chives on top brightens up the dish and adds an aromatic touch.
Side Dishes
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their creamy texture and natural sweetness pair wonderfully with the sharpness of cheddar cheese in your salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa side dish provides a wholesome base that adds protein and fiber, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs makes for a satisfying protein addition alongside this crisp salad.
- Cranberry Sauce: A homemade cranberry sauce can amplify the fall flavors in your meal while providing a tangy contrast to the richness of bacon.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is a fantastic option for meal prep! Not only does it hold up well in the fridge, but it also allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
- If you have leftovers of the dressing, store it separately to keep the salad crisp.
Freezing
- This salad is not recommended for freezing due to its fresh ingredients and textures.
- If you need to prepare components ahead of time, consider freezing cooked bacon or cheese separately.
Reheating
- Generally, this salad is served cold, so reheating is not necessary.
- If you prefer warm ingredients, gently heat the bacon before mixing it into the salad.
FAQs
Can I make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and mix them right before serving to maintain freshness. The dressing can be made in advance as well.
What can I substitute for bacon in Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon?
For a vegetarian option, try using smoked tempeh or crispy chickpeas for added crunch and flavor without using pork.
How long does Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon last in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator while maintaining its taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of autumn flavors and textures that will surely delight your taste buds. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, I hope you find joy in making and sharing this recipe. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your own twists!
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Turkey
This vibrant Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Turkey is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The earthy Brussels sprouts and kale are paired with the crisp sweetness of diced Granny Smith apples, while sharp cheddar adds a rich creaminess. Toasted pecans and dried cranberries bring crunch and chew to every bite, making it a standout dish for holiday gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Quick to prepare, this salad can be made ahead of time, allowing you to savor its deliciousness whenever hunger strikes. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a light meal on its own, this recipe will surely have everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Autumn
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 1 large bunch kale (any variety)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 1 Granny Smith apple (diced)
- â…“ cup pecans (toasted)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (diced)
- Cooked turkey strips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Brussels sprouts by slicing them thinly and placing them in a large bowl.
- Remove tough stems from kale, slice into ribbons, and add to the bowl. Massage with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and salt until tender.
- Toss in diced apples, toasted pecans, cranberries, cheddar cheese, and crumbled cooked turkey if using.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, and remaining olive oil until emulsified.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Serve immediately for optimal freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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