Name: Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shredded; 2 tbsp olive oil; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ⅓ cup dried cranberries; ⅓ cup chopped pecans or walnuts; ¼ cup shredded parmesan or dairy-free cheese (optional); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey or maple syrup; Salt & pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you love vibrant flavors paired with delightful textures, this Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. It brings together shredded Brussels sprouts roasted to a perfect crisp, combined with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy nuts, and a tangy homemade dressing that dances on your taste buds. The magic lies in the contrast between the crispy edges and the fresh, bright salad components, making it an irresistible side dish for any fall or winter meal. It’s simple, satisfying, and surprisingly versatile — every bite bursts with warmth, crunch, and a hint of sweetness that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows fresh ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface with a white checked cloth underneath. A clear glass bowl full of bright green Brussels sprouts sits on the left. Below it, a white bowl holds small cubes of raw pink and white bacon. To the right of the bacon, a small white bowl contains a golden yellow liquid, likely olive oil. Next to it, a dark bottle labeled

When it comes to this Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe, all the ingredients are straightforward yet essential, carefully chosen to balance flavors, textures, and colors beautifully. Each component plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s anything but ordinary.

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shredded: The star of the salad, shredded for tender but crisp bites.
2 tbsp olive oil: For roasting and dressing, it adds richness and helps crisp the sprouts.
¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
¼ tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
⅓ cup dried cranberries: Sweetness that perfectly contrasts the savory sprouts.
⅓ cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
¼ cup shredded parmesan or dairy-free cheese (optional): Adds a salty, umami punch for extra richness.
2 tbsp olive oil (for dressing): Forms the base of the tangy dressing.
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Gives the dressing a bright, slightly tart kick.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle sharpness and emulsifies the dressing.
1 tsp honey or maple syrup: Balances acidity with a subtle sweetness.
Salt & pepper to taste: To perfectly season every component.

How to Make Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Shred the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the ends off your Brussels sprouts and removing any tough outer leaves. Shred them thinly using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor. Shredding is key because it creates the perfect texture for roasting and ensures each bite has that wonderful crispiness.

Step 2: Roast or Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts

Toss your shredded sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper so every piece is lightly coated. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet for the oven or place them in your air fryer basket. Roast at 400°F (205°C) or air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring halfway through. You’re aiming for just the right amount of golden-brown crisp edges while keeping the inside tender.

Step 3: Combine the Mix-Ins

While the sprouts cool slightly, gather your dried cranberries, chopped nuts, and optional parmesan cheese. Toss these into a large bowl — the colors and flavors will brighten up the salad and add fantastic texture contrasts.

Step 4: Whisk and Toss the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. Pour this dressing over the roasted Brussels sprouts and mix-ins, tossing gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly. This dressing is what brings all the ingredients together in delicious harmony.

Step 5: Serve Warm or Room Temperature

You can enjoy this salad right away while it’s still slightly warm, or let it sit at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld. Either way, it’s a fresh and cozy side that complements a wide variety of dishes.

How to Serve Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe

A wooden bowl filled with a colorful salad featuring bright yellow cherry tomatoes, sliced green Brussels sprouts, small cranberries or raisins, and white crumbly cheese scattered on top. The salad has a fresh and vibrant look with different textures: smooth tomatoes, crisp sprouts, and soft cheese. A metal spoon rests in the bowl, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can elevate this Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe even more. Try sprinkling toasted pumpkin seeds or crispy roasted chickpeas on top to deepen the crunch factor. A few swirls of extra apple cider vinegar or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives brighten the presentation and flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats like turkey or chicken, offering a fresh, crisp contrast that complements rich flavors. It also makes a fabulous partner to vegetarian mains such as grilled tofu or hearty grain bowls, adding texture and nutrition without weighing down your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or make lunch feel special? Serve the salad layered in a glass jar for a portable, visually impressive option or arrange it atop a bed of mixed greens with slices of avocado and a sprinkle of crunchy bacon or nuts as a main dish salad. The vibrant colors and textures will always make it the star of the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if you want to maintain more crispness in the sprouts and nuts. Give it a fresh toss before serving leftover portions.

Freezing

Since fresh vegetables and crunchy nuts tend to lose their texture when frozen, it’s best not to freeze this Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe. For best results, prepare the salad fresh and enjoy, or freeze the roasted sprouts separately if you want to prep ahead for quick meal assembly.

Reheating

If you want to gently warm leftovers, reheat the roasted Brussels sprouts on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving as this can cause sogginess. After warming, toss with fresh dressing and toppings for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I make this Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative, and use maple syrup instead of honey. The salad still shines with vegan-friendly ingredients and remains packed with flavor.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! The oven method works perfectly for roasting the shredded Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and stir halfway through roasting to achieve even crispness.

Can I use whole Brussels sprouts instead of shredded?

You can, but shredding is what gives this salad its unique texture and crispiness. Whole sprouts take longer to cook and have a different mouthfeel, so for this salad, shredded is the best choice.

What nuts work best in this salad?

Pecans and walnuts are excellent choices because their buttery, earthy flavors complement the Brussels sprouts beautifully. You can also experiment with toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or even pumpkin seeds for a nut-free crunch.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the dressing ahead of time. Store them separately and combine just before serving to maintain the crispness. It’s a great option for quick lunches or easy side dishes during the week.

Final Thoughts

If you want a salad that’s anything but boring, this Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe is a game changer. It’s packed with fresh, vibrant flavors and textures that make every bite a joy. Whether as a side to your holiday feast or a quick, satisfying lunch, it’s sure to become a staple you’ll reach for often. Give it a try and watch your love for Brussels sprouts grow!