Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad

When I first created this Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad, I was searching for a dish that would not only excite my taste buds but also bring a burst of color to the table. It was early spring, and everything around me was coming back to life. I wanted something fresh, vibrant, and packed with nutrients. Combining the sweet juiciness of fresh blueberries with the crunch of Brussels sprouts felt like the perfect answer to my cravings. The idea of a salad that was not just a side, but a centerpiece, thrilled me. Friends often ask for this recipe, sharing their own twists and variations, which makes it all the more special. As the blueberries burst with flavor, they meld beautifully with other ingredients, creating a harmony that celebrates the season.

Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad Ingredients

The ingredients in this Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad are not just for flavor; they work together to create a nourishing, satisfying dish. Each component brings its own unique taste and texture, enhancing the overall experience. The Brussels sprouts, when shaved, provide a lovely crunch, while the blueberries add a burst of sweetness. The dressing ties it all together beautifully, bringing out the individual flavors.

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: A rich and flavorful oil that helps emulsify the dressing.
• 1/3 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for that zesty kick.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons honey: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity.
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a nice tang.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a savory flavor into the dressing.
• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds: Adds a delightful crunch and unique taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: A sprinkle adds depth and heat.
• 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed: Thinly sliced for a tender bite.
• 3 cups spinach leaves: Adds a vibrant green and nutrient density.
• 2 cups fresh blueberries: Sweet and juicy, the star of the dish.
• 1 cup sliced almonds: Provides a nutty flavor and crunch.
• 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and chopped: Adds creamy texture and healthy fats.
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced: Adds color and a mild bite.
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese: A tangy finish that complements the sweetness.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Final seasoning to elevate the dish.

Putting Together Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad

Making this delightful Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad is as easy as it is rewarding. The steps are straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the process as much as the result. Let’s dive into the specifics, and soon you’ll be savoring this beautiful salad.

1. To make the dressing, start by taking a small bowl or jar. Combine extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, poppy seeds, Kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk or shake until everything is well combined. You want it to emulsify nicely, creating a creamy consistency.
2. Now it’s time to prepare the salad. Begin by shaving the Brussels sprouts. Use a food processor with a slicing attachment to pulse them until they’re thinly sliced. If you don’t have a food processor, a mandoline or a sharp knife works well, too. The goal is to have thin, delicate slices that will blend beautifully with the other ingredients.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts and spinach leaves. Toss them together with your hands, allowing the leaves to meld together. This is where you’ll start to see the salad take shape.
4. Add in the fresh blueberries, sliced almonds, red onion, avocado, and the crumbled feta cheese. Each ingredient contributes to a colorful and textured salad. The contrast of colors makes this salad not only delicious but visually appealing.
5. Now, drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad. Be generous! This dressing is what ties all the flavors together. Toss everything gently, ensuring that the salad is well coated. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor.
6. Finally, season the salad with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mixing in the seasoning at the end allows you to control the flavor and ensure it’s just right for your palate. Taste and adjust as necessary.
7. Serve immediately for the best texture. However, if you’re preparing it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. This way, the Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad will remain fresh and crisp.

Recipe Variations about Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad

There are countless ways to put your spin on this Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad. Here are some fun variations and tips to consider:

• Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost, making the salad more filling.
• Use Different Nuts: Swap out sliced almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Try goat cheese instead of feta cheese for a creamier texture and tangy flavor.
• Fruit Variations: You can add other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a twist on flavors.
• Spice It Up: To add some heat, consider sprinkling in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese to make the salad vegan-friendly while keeping all the vibrant flavors intact.
• Seasonal Twist: Change ingredients based on the season—try adding roasted butternut squash in the fall.

Perfect Matches for Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad

When serving your Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad, think of pairing it with dishes that complement its unique flavors. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled Fish: The lightness of grilled salmon or tilapia pairs beautifully with the salad’s freshness.
• Sandwiches: Serve it alongside turkey or veggie sandwiches for a fantastic lunch combination.
• Picnic Delight: This salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings and picnics—its vibrant colors make it a dish everyone will want to try.
• Seasonal Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables in the fall or summer barbecues to create a varied meal.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh artisan bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
• Light Pasta: Enjoy it with a light lemon pasta dish for a refreshing meal.
• Appetizer Option: Serve smaller portions on appetizer plates at dinner parties; it’s an impressive start to any meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it for a healthy lunch, this salad is sure to impress. I encourage you to try making it soon—your taste buds will thank you!

Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad

The ultimate refreshing salad! This Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad combines vibrant flavors and textures for an easy weeknight dinner. Don’t miss out on this deliciously healthy dish that everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 lb. Brussels sprouts ends trimmed
• 3 cups spinach leaves
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 2 ripe avocados peeled, pitted, and chopped
• 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Kosher salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Food Processor
• Whisk
• Peeler

Method

 

1. To make the dressing, start by taking a small bowl or jar. Combine extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, poppy seeds, Kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk or shake until everything is well combined. You want it to emulsify nicely, creating a creamy consistency.
2. Now it’s time to prepare the salad. Begin by shaving the Brussels sprouts. Use a food processor with a slicing attachment to pulse them until they’re thinly sliced. If you don’t have a food processor, a mandoline or a sharp knife works well, too. The goal is to have thin, delicate slices that will blend beautifully with the other ingredients.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts and spinach leaves. Toss them together with your hands, allowing the leaves to meld together. This is where you’ll start to see the salad take shape.
4. Add in the fresh blueberries, sliced almonds, red onion, avocado, and the crumbled feta cheese. Each ingredient contributes to a colorful and textured salad. The contrast of colors makes this salad not only delicious but visually appealing.
5. Now, drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad. Be generous! This dressing is what ties all the flavors together. Toss everything gently, ensuring that the salad is well coated. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor.
6. Finally, season the salad with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mixing in the seasoning at the end allows you to control the flavor and ensure it’s just right for your palate. Taste and adjust as necessary.
7. Serve immediately for the best texture. However, if you’re preparing it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. This way, the Blueberry Brussels Sprouts Salad will remain fresh and crisp.

Notes

This salad is best the day it is made, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.