If you’re looking for a salad that strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, you’ve come to the right place! This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is a delightful medley of flavors and textures that makes it a favorite in our home. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a festive Thanksgiving feast, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends.
What makes this dish truly special is its combination of crisp Brussels sprouts, tender kale, and sweet apples, all brought together by rich cheddar cheese and savory bacon. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience of fall on your plate!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: With just 40 minutes from prep to table, you can whip this up even on the busiest days.
- Deliciously satisfying: The mix of hearty greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Perfect for gatherings: This salad is a showstopper at any potluck or family gathering—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the ingredients in advance for an easy assembly when you’re ready to serve.
- Customizable goodness: Easily adapt this recipe with your favorite ingredients or dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad features simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you’ll need for this delicious 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)
- ⅓ 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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:
- Swap the greens: Try using arugula or spinach instead of kale for a different flavor profile.
- Add more crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an extra layer of texture.
- Make it vegan: Substitute bacon with crispy chickpeas or smoked tempeh and use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Spice it up: Add some sliced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
How to Make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by cleaning your Brussels sprouts. Remove any brown or yellow leaves before slicing them as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer works wonders here! The thinner they are, the more they absorb the dressing and flavors.
Step 2: Chop the Kale
Next, remove the tough stems from your kale. Stack those beautiful leaves, roll them like a cigar, and slice into ribbons. This method not only looks appealing but also makes the kale easier to chew.
Step 3: Massage Your Greens
Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over your greens. Sprinkle with salt and give them a gentle massage using clean hands. This step is crucial as it helps soften the kale while enhancing its flavor!
Step 4: Add Sweetness and Crunch
Now it’s time to add those crunchy pecans, sweet cranberries, diced apples, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon into your bowl. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor that will come together beautifully.
Step 5: Whisk Up the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together minced shallots, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly stream in three tablespoons of olive oil along with warmed bacon fat while whisking until everything emulsifies. Taste it—adjust seasoning if needed!
Step 6: Toss It All Together
Pour that gorgeous vinaigrette over your salad mix and toss until everything is well combined. Serve immediately for optimal freshness! Enjoy every bite of this vibrant salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
This salad is not only delicious but also easy to customize and perfect for gatherings! Here are some pro tips to ensure you make the most out of your salad:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts and kale will provide a vibrant flavor and crisp texture, making your salad a standout dish.
- Toast the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of the pecans, adding depth to your salad. Just a few minutes in a dry pan will do the trick!
- Massage the greens: Gently massaging the kale and Brussels sprouts softens them, making them more palatable and allowing the vinaigrette to adhere better.
- Balance flavors: Taste your vinaigrette before adding it all to the salad. Adjust sweetness or acidity as needed to ensure a well-rounded dressing that complements all ingredients.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving. This helps save time while ensuring freshness.
How to Serve Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Presenting your salad beautifully can elevate any meal! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh herbs: Adding chopped parsley or chives can brighten up the flavors and add a lovely pop of color.
- Extra cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated sharp cheddar on top just before serving adds an appealing finish and extra richness.
Side Dishes
- Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy apple and cheddar flavors in the salad.
- Quinoa pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs can complement the salad’s textures while keeping things hearty yet healthy.
- Grilled chicken: For those looking for additional protein, grilled chicken adds a savory element that works nicely alongside this vibrant salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the components ahead of time, making it easy to toss together when you’re ready to serve.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting.
- Enjoy leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
- This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients and texture changes.
- If you want to freeze components, consider freezing just the cooked bacon separately.
Reheating
- If you prefer your salad warmed, gently heat it in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through.
- Avoid microwaving as it can make the greens soggy.
FAQs
Can I make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare all the components a day in advance. Just store them separately and combine them right before serving for fresh crunch.
What can I substitute for bacon in Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon?
You can use crispy chickpeas or smoked tempeh as a delicious alternative that adds a savory flavor without using pork.
How long will Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Be sure to keep the dressing separate until serving.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this delightful Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon! It perfectly balances healthiness and indulgence, making it a fantastic addition to any table. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations—happy cooking!
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Turkey
Experience the vibrant flavors of fall with this delightful Brussels sprout, kale, and apple salad featuring sharp cheddar cheese and crispy turkey. This salad is a perfect balance of healthy and indulgent, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. The combination of crisp Brussels sprouts, tender kale, and sweet apples is complemented by rich cheddar and savory turkey, creating an unforgettable taste sensation. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this salad will surely impress your family and friends!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Assembling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 1 large bunch kale
- 1 Granny Smith apple
- ⅓ cup pecans
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese
- 5 strips turkey (cooked and crumbled)
- For the vinaigrette: shallots, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil
Instructions
- Clean and thinly slice the Brussels sprouts.
- Remove stems from kale, stack leaves, roll them up, and slice into ribbons.
- Massage greens with olive oil and salt until softened.
- Add pecans, cranberries, diced apple, cheddar cheese, and crumbled turkey to the greens.
- Whisk together shallots, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, olive oil until emulsified.
- Toss the salad with the vinaigrette just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Leave a Comment