Fresh Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette

If you’re craving a dish bursting with freshness, crunch, and a delightful pop of flavor, this Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette is your new go-to. This vibrant salad combines thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with a tangy, sweet pomegranate vinaigrette that elevates every bite. Packed with colorful ingredients and a dressing that perfectly balances tart and sweet notes, it’s ideal for any season and sure to impress at your next meal or gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Crisp: The raw Brussels sprouts deliver a satisfying crunch that makes this salad incredibly refreshing.
• Vibrant Flavors: The pomegranate vinaigrette adds a natural sweetness and tang that complements the slight bitterness of the sprouts.
• Colorful Presentation: Pomegranate seeds, nuts, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) make this dish as beautiful as it is tasty.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from everyday pantry staples and fresh produce, it’s straightforward yet exciting.
• Versatile Anytime Dish: Perfect as a side, light lunch, or even a starter for dinner parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each element adds a layer of taste, texture, or eye-catching color that comes together wonderfully in every bite.

• Brussels sprouts: Thinly sliced to bring out a tender crunch and mild flavor.
• Pomegranate seeds: Juicy bursts that add a sweet-tart contrast and beautiful red hues.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a smoky depth and savory crunch, balancing the sweetness in the dressing.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): Melts into the salad with a creamy texture and mild taste.
• Walnuts or pecans: Provide a nutty crunch that complements both the sprouts and the vinaigrette.
• Apple cider vinegar: The acidic base for the vinaigrette that lifts flavors without overpowering.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Creates a smooth and rich dressing consistency.
• Pomegranate molasses: Offers a concentrated pomegranate sweetness to enhance the vinaigrette.
• Honey or agave syrup: Balances acidity with natural sweetness.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick and emulsifies the dressing.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every ingredient perfectly.

Variations for Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Feel free to make this recipe your own with simple swaps and additions. Whether you’re adapting for dietary preferences or aiming for unique flavor profiles, this salad is wonderfully flexible.

• Nut-Free Option: Replace walnuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try crumbled feta or goat cheese if you prefer tangier notes instead of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal).
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, smoked turkey slices, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Fruit Twists: Swap pomegranate seeds for fresh cranberries or diced apples to bring seasonal variety.
• Herb Infusion: Toss in chopped fresh mint, parsley, or basil to give the salad a fresh herbal aroma.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by rinsing the Brussels sprouts and trimming off the ends. Slice them thinly with a sharp knife or mandoline to create delicate shreds that will soak up the vinaigrette beautifully.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts and Bacon

Lightly toast your choice of walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet to enhance their flavor. Cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp, then chop into bite-sized pieces to add a smoky, savory crunch.

Step 3: Make the Pomegranate Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, pomegranate molasses, honey or agave syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth, cohesive sauce.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss the shredded Brussels sprouts with pomegranate seeds, toasted nuts, smoked turkey bacon, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Pour the pomegranate vinaigrette over the top and toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Give it a final toss before serving to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette

• Thin Slicing Matters: Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin Brussels sprouts that absorb dressing well.
• Toast Nuts Gently: Keep an eye on nuts while toasting to avoid a bitter burnt taste.
• Adjust Sweetness: Customize the vinaigrette’s sweetness with honey or agave to suit your palate.
• Rest for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit briefly before serving to enhance the mingling flavors.
• Fresh Pomegranate Seeds: Use fresh seeds for the best texture and natural sweetness.

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Garnishes

Top with extra pomegranate seeds and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint to add a burst of color and freshness right before serving.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled smoked turkey slices, roasted root vegetables, or a warm grain like quinoa or couscous for a complete and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual clear glass bowls or layered jars to show off the vibrant colors, or plate it on a large platter garnished with pomegranate seeds for an eye-catching centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the dressing separately if you prefer to keep sprouts crisp longer.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended because the texture and flavors may suffer.

Reheating

Since this is a raw salad, reheating is unnecessary and could compromise the fresh textures and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this salad?

Fresh Brussels sprouts work best because the salad relies on their crunchy texture, which frozen and thawed sprouts will lose.

Is there a vegan option for this salad?

Absolutely! Simply omit the smoked turkey bacon and use maple syrup or agave for sweetness to keep it plant-based.

Can I prepare the vinaigrette in advance?

Yes, the pomegranate vinaigrette can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator; just whisk it again before using.

What nuts work best in this salad?

Walnuts or pecans are preferred for their soft crunch and rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with almonds or pumpkin seeds.

How long should I let the salad rest before serving?

A resting time of 10 to 15 minutes allows the Brussels sprouts to soften slightly and the flavors of the vinaigrette to fully meld throughout the salad.

Final Thoughts

This Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette is a true celebration of vibrant colors, fresh textures, and balanced flavors. Whether for a weekday lunch, festive occasion, or casual dinner, it shines as a dish that feels both special and effortlessly wholesome. Give it a try and discover how such simple ingredients can come together in such a joyful way!

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