Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Salad
4 cups Brussels sprouts, thinly shaved
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, very thinly sliced
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
For the Dressing
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, finely minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
🥗 Instructions
Start by preparing the Brussels sprouts. Trim the tough ends and remove any outer leaves that look damaged. Using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor, thinly shave the Brussels sprouts so they resemble delicate ribbons. This technique gives the salad a light, crunchy texture and helps the dressing coat every bite evenly.
Place the shaved Brussels sprouts into a large mixing bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. These fresh ingredients bring brightness and color to the salad while balancing the slightly nutty flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
Next, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until the dressing becomes smooth and slightly emulsified.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until all the vegetables are evenly coated. Allow the salad to sit for about 5–10 minutes so the Brussels sprouts soften slightly and absorb the flavors of the dressing.
Just before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts over the top. The Parmesan adds a savory, salty depth while the nuts provide a delicious crunch that makes the salad more satisfying.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add an extra squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil for extra freshness.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This Italian Brussels Sprout Salad is crisp, fresh, and packed with Mediterranean flavor. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, pasta dishes, or even a simple soup. It can also be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own. Because the sprouts hold their texture well, the salad can be prepared slightly ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings, picnics, or meal prep.