Craving a fresh, vibrant salad? Let me introduce you to my Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Salad! This dish combines the crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts with the sweet and tangy taste of honey and mustard. Toss in walnuts, dried cranberries, and feta cheese for an added twist. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving friends, this simple recipe is sure to impress. Dive in and discover how easy it is to make this delicious salad!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Additional Ingredients
– 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Seasoning and Dressing Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
In this salad, the main ingredients stand out. Brussels sprouts bring a strong flavor and crunch. Honey adds sweetness, and Dijon mustard gives a nice tang. Together, they form a base that excites the taste buds.
The additional ingredients enhance the dish. Walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, while dried cranberries add a burst of sweetness. Feta cheese adds creaminess and saltiness, balancing the overall flavors.
For seasoning and dressing, olive oil is key. It helps to coat the Brussels sprouts well before roasting. Apple cider vinegar adds acidity, which brightens the dish. Garlic powder gives it depth, and salt and pepper bring everything together. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a fresh and simple salad that is full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. This helps them cook evenly.
Roasting the Brussels Sprouts
– In a bowl, mix the halved Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Toss until they are well coated.
– Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them for 20-25 minutes. Stir them halfway through for even cooking. They should be golden brown and crispy.
Making the Dressing
– In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix until it’s smooth.
– Taste your dressing. If you want it sweeter, add more honey. If you like it tangy, add more vinegar.
Combining All Ingredients
– Let the roasted Brussels sprouts cool for about 5 minutes. In a large salad bowl, combine the warm sprouts with 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, 1/4 cup of dried cranberries, and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese.
– Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad. Toss everything gently until it’s well mixed.
Enjoy this fresh and simple Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Salad!
Tips & Tricks
Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts
For great Brussels sprouts, start with fresh ones. Trim the ends and cut them in half. This helps them cook evenly. Use a good amount of olive oil and salt. This gives them a nice golden color. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate. Stir them halfway through roasting for even crispness. Bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. Look for them to be crispy on the edges and tender inside.
Dressing Enhancements
You can change up the dressing to fit your taste. Try using maple syrup instead of honey for a sweeter twist. You could also add a touch of lemon juice for brightness. If you have leftover dressing, store it in the fridge. Use a sealed jar to keep it fresh. It should last about a week. Shake well before using it again.
Garnishing Ideas
Presentation is key for any salad. Serve it in a large, shallow dish for a beautiful look. To add color, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or microgreens on top. This adds freshness and makes it eye-catching. You can also add extra walnuts or feta to make it more inviting. Enjoy the bright colors and flavors!
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can switch up nuts and cheese in this salad. If you don’t like walnuts, try pecans or almonds. You can also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese works well.
In spring or summer, add fresh veggies. Consider peas, asparagus, or bell peppers for a vibrant twist. In the fall, roasted squash can bring warmth to the dish. You can mix and match based on what you find at the market.
Dietary Modifications
For a vegan option, skip the cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey. This keeps the dish sweet and tasty without any animal products.
If you need it gluten-free, check your mustard. Most Dijon mustards are gluten-free, but it’s good to read the label. You can enjoy this salad without worrying about gluten!
Flavor Enhancements
To spice things up, add a pinch of cayenne for heat. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can bring a nice depth of flavor, too. You might also try adding chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh burst.
For extra crunch, top with crispy chickpeas or crunchy croutons. These additions will not only enhance the texture but also make your salad even more enjoyable!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Salad fresh, place it in an airtight container. This helps lock in flavor and texture. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. The salad will stay tasty, but the Brussels sprouts may get a bit soft over time.
Reheating Instructions
If you want to warm up the salad, do it gently. Use a microwave on low power for about 30 seconds. Check it often to avoid making it mushy. For a lovely crunch, consider reheating the Brussels sprouts separately in a pan. After warming, add fresh toppings like extra walnuts or feta to bring it back to life.
Freezing Information
You can freeze this salad, but it won’t taste quite the same. The texture of the Brussels sprouts will change. If you choose to freeze it, do so before adding the dressing. Place it in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight and serve fresh toppings for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dressing ahead. This saves time when you prepare the salad. To store it, place the dressing in a jar with a lid. Keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Shake it well before using. If it thickens, add a little water to thin it out. This way, you always have a tasty dressing ready to go.
Are Brussels sprouts healthy?
Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients. They are low in calories but high in fiber. A cup has vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. They also contain antioxidants, which help protect your cells. Eating Brussels sprouts may support heart health and reduce inflammation. Incorporating them into your diet is a smart choice for a healthy lifestyle.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
You can use fresh cranberries, but they are very tart. Dried cranberries add sweetness and chewiness to the salad. If you want to use fresh, consider adding a bit of honey to balance the tartness. Chop them into smaller pieces. This helps spread the flavor throughout the salad. Make sure to taste as you go to get the balance just right.
This blog post covered a tasty Brussels sprouts salad with interesting layers of flavor. We discussed the main ingredients, like Brussels sprouts, honey, and mustard, and included tips for perfect roasting. You learned how to make a simple dressing, mix all the ingredients, and enhance flavor with various options.
Remember, you can get creative with substitutions and storage tips. This dish not only tastes good but also offers health benefits. Enjoy experimenting and making this salad your own!
