15-Minute Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad – Irresistible Crunch!

Oh, you’ve got to try this shaved Brussels sprout apple salad – it’s the kind of dish that makes people who “don’t do salads” come back for seconds! I first made this for a potluck when I was desperately trying to use up some leftover Brussels sprouts, and now my friends demand it at every gathering. The magic happens when you combine those whisper-thin shavings of sprouts with crisp apple slices and a tangy-sweet dressing that clings perfectly to every bite. What I love most is how it stays crunchy for hours, unlike those wimpy greens that turn soggy before you finish saying “bon appétit.” It’s become my go-to when I need something fresh, fast, and unexpectedly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad

This isn’t your average sad salad—it’s the kind that’ll make you actually excited to eat your greens. Here’s why it’s my forever favorite:

• Crunch that lasts – No wilted mess here! The shaved Brussels and apples stay crisp for hours, even after dressing
• Ready in 15 minutes – Faster than takeout, but tastes like something from a fancy bistro
• Sweet-meets-tangy magic – That honey-apple cider vinegar dressing? Absolute perfection on the first bite
• Healthy without trying – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and good fats from the walnuts
• Endlessly adaptable – Throw in whatever extras you’ve got (I’ll tell you my favorite add-ins later!)

Ingredients for Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad

Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference—here’s exactly what you’ll need for that perfect crunch and balance of flavors:

• 2 cups shaved Brussels sprouts (about 12 oz whole—I use a mandoline for paper-thin slices)
• 1 medium crisp apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Fuji hold up best)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (toast them for extra flavor if you’ve got 5 extra minutes!)
• 2 tbsp good olive oil (the fruity kind works wonders here)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (trust me, the tang is essential)
• 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup if you’re feeling fancy)
• 1/4 tsp each salt & black pepper (freshly cracked pepper makes it pop)

See those measurements? No guesswork needed—this combo creates magic every time.

How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad

This salad comes together so easily, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it every week! The key is taking a few extra minutes to prep everything just right—trust me, it’s worth it.

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables and Apple

First, grab your Brussels sprouts. I use a mandoline to shave them into thin, delicate ribbons—it’s a game-changer! If you don’t have one, a sharp knife works too, just slice them as thin as you can. Next, core your apple and slice it into thin matchsticks or half-moons. The thinner the better—it helps everything blend beautifully. Toss both into a large bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

Now, for the star of the show: the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until it’s smooth and slightly thickened. This is where the magic happens—the honey helps emulsify everything, so it coats the salad perfectly. Don’t skip the salt and pepper—they balance the sweetness and tang just right.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over your shaved Brussels sprouts and apple slices. Here’s the trick: toss gently! Use your hands or a pair of tongs to mix everything together, making sure every piece gets a little love from the dressing. You don’t want to bruise the sprouts or apples, so take it easy. Finally, sprinkle those chopped walnuts on top for a nutty crunch, and you’re done!

Tips for the Best Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad

Want to make sure your salad turns out perfect every time? Here are my tried-and-true tricks:

• Keep everything cold – Chilled sprouts and apples stay crisper longer
• Add nuts last – Toss them on top right before serving to keep them crunchy
• Taste and adjust – Need more tang? Add extra vinegar. Too tart? Drizzle in more honey
• Massage the sprouts – Gently rub them with your hands to soften slightly
• Prep ahead – Shave sprouts and slice apples up to 2 hours before, but wait to dress

Follow these simple tips, and you’ll have the most delicious salad every single time!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This salad is practically begging for your personal touch! Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if that’s what’s in your pantry—I’ve even used sunflower seeds when allergies were a concern. Not a fan of apple cider vinegar? Lemon juice works beautifully too. And here’s my secret: crumbled goat cheese or feta takes it to another level (just add it right before serving so it doesn’t get soggy). Craving something sweeter? Toss in a handful of dried cranberries or golden raisins. The beauty of this recipe is how forgiving it is—make it yours!

Serving Suggestions for Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad

This salad shines bright whether you serve it as a light lunch or a vibrant side! My favorite way? Pile it alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a complete meal. It’s also perfect for holiday spreads—that festive mix of green and red makes it look fancy with zero effort. For parties, I sometimes serve it in individual mason jars (so cute!) with the dressing at the bottom. Honestly? It disappears fast no matter how you present it!

Storage and Reheating

Here’s the good news—this salad stays crisp in the fridge for up to 2 days! Just store it undressed (trust me, learned that the hard way). Toss in the walnuts and dressing right before serving to keep that perfect crunch. Leftovers? They won’t last long!

Nutritional Information for Shaved Brussels Sprout Apple Salad

Let’s talk about why this salad makes you feel amazing after eating it! It’s packed with good-for-you ingredients that give you a boost of energy without weighing you down. The Brussels sprouts bring a hefty dose of fiber and vitamins, while the apples add natural sweetness and a punch of antioxidants. Those walnuts? They’re full of healthy fats that keep you satisfied. And don’t even get me started on that olive oil in the dressing—it’s pure heart-healthy goodness. Just remember, nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But one thing’s for sure—this salad is as nourishing as it is delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make shaved Brussels sprout apple salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the sprouts and apples up to 2 hours before—just keep them separate from the dressing and walnuts until serving. The dressing can be whisked ahead too (it actually gets better as flavors meld).

What’s the easiest way to shave Brussels sprouts?
My mandoline is my secret weapon! It creates those perfect thin ribbons in seconds. No mandoline? Use a sharp knife—slice off the stem end, then carefully cut crosswise into thin rounds.

Will the apples turn brown?
They might slightly, but the acid in the dressing helps prevent browning. If you’re extra worried, toss apple slices with a teaspoon of lemon juice before adding to the salad.

Can I use a different nut?
Of course! Pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds work beautifully. Just toast them first for maximum flavor—it makes all the difference.

Is this salad kid-friendly?
Surprisingly, yes! The sweet dressing and crunchy texture often win over picky eaters. Start with less dressing and let them dip—it’s how I got my niece to eat Brussels sprouts!

Final Thoughts

That’s all there is to my favorite crunchy salad! Give it a try this week—I’d love to hear how you make it your own. Trust me, once you taste that perfect bite of sweet-tangy goodness, you’ll be hooked just like I was.

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