Save to Pinterest Bright, zesty, and packed with texture, this Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Salad is a celebration of fresh flavors and satisfying crunch. Finely shaved Brussels sprouts form the crisp base, tossed with slices of shallot and a vibrant lemon dressing that awakens your palate. Toasted almonds add nutty depth, while generous shavings of Parmesan bring the perfect savory balance, making this salad a standout starter or light meal.
Save to Pinterest This salad exemplifies modern European simplicity — clean and unfussy ingredients that highlight their natural character. Its bright flavors and crunchy bite make it a versatile dish for any season, ideal alongside grilled proteins or as a standalone vegetarian delight.
Ingredients
- 500 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and finely shredded
- 2 small shallots, thinly sliced
- 60 g sliced almonds, toasted
- 50 g Parmesan cheese, shaved or finely grated
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded Brussels sprouts and sliced shallots.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the Brussels sprouts mixture and toss well to combine.
- 4. Add the toasted almonds and most of the Parmesan cheese, reserving some for garnish. Toss gently.
- 5. Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan and extra almonds if desired.
- 6. Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or let sit for 10–15 minutes to mellow flavors.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the crispiest texture, shave the Brussels sprouts very thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Toast the almonds lightly to unlock their aroma, and whisk the dressing thoroughly to create a smooth, cohesive emulsion that evenly coats every bite.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Try adding crisped bacon or prosciutto for a salty, savory twist. You can swap Parmesan with pecorino or replace almonds with walnuts to alter the nutty elements according to your preference while maintaining the dish's essence.
Serviervorschläge
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also shines on its own as a vegetarian option that delights with bright flavors and satisfying crunch.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this salad fresh to experience its full crunch and brightness. Its simplicity is its strength, making it a go-to recipe that impresses without demanding time or complex techniques.
Common Questions
- → Can I prepare the Brussels sprouts in advance?
Yes, you can shred the Brussels sprouts and slice the shallots a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated. Dress the salad just before serving to maintain its crunch.
- → What nuts can be used instead of almonds?
Pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts make excellent substitutes, adding different textures and flavors while keeping the salad crunchy.
- → How can I make the dressing more balanced?
Adjust the lemon juice and honey amounts to suit your taste, balancing acidity and sweetness to brighten the flavors without overpowering.
- → Is it better to serve it immediately or after resting?
Serving immediately preserves the salad’s crunchy texture, while letting it rest 10–15 minutes mellows the flavors and softens the sprouts subtly.
- → What are good pairings for this salad?
This vibrant salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a light accompaniment to richer dishes to add freshness and texture.