Did you know Brussels sprouts have up to 72 mg of Vitamin C per serving? They’re not just healthy, but also stand out in the vegetable world. This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad adds a fresh twist to the classic. It’s perfect for a healthy meal and great for gatherings.
It combines homemade caesar dressing and crispy bacon. This makes it a favorite for any event.
This salad is quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes to get ready. It serves 6 people or can be saved for your lunches. Enjoy a guilt-free yet indulgent experience with this salad.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- This salad features shaved Brussels sprouts for a unique twist on a classic Caesar.
- It highlights the versatility of meal prepping, making it ideal for busy weeks.
- Crispy bacon adds a savory depth, perfect if you seek extra flavor.
- Packed with nutrients, this salad is low in calories yet rich in taste.
- The homemade caesar dressing is customizable according to your taste preferences.
Introduction to Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
The Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is a fresh twist on the classic Caesar. It uses thinly sliced Brussels sprouts instead of romaine lettuce. This change brings a new texture and taste that grabs everyone’s attention.
The mix of crispy sprouts, savory dressing, and bacon makes it visually stunning. It also adds a burst of flavor that makes any meal better.
Making this caesar salad with shaved brussels sprouts is quick, taking under 20 minutes. You’ll need a 1 lb bag of Brussels sprouts, hummus, tahini, garlic, and breadcrumbs. Together, they create a delicious taste that brightens any meal.
This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make the dressing 2-3 days ahead. This makes it easy to enjoy this brussels sprouts salad whenever you want.
If you’re vegan, just skip the anchovy paste and Parmesan. Use capers instead for a tasty substitute.
Leftovers stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. This salad is perfect for any occasion, thanks to its mix of flavors and easy prep. Find the full recipe here.
Ingredients You Need for a Crunchy Salad
Making a tasty Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad begins with picking fresh, quality ingredients. It’s all about the right mix of textures and tastes for this crunchy salad. Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty dish.
Fresh Brussels Sprouts
You’ll start with 24 ounces of pre-shaved Brussels sprouts. You can buy them or shave fresh ones yourself. A mandolin or food processor works well. Shaved sprouts add a nice crunch and lots of nutrients. Freshness is key for the best flavor in your Caesar salad.
Other Essential Ingredients
Next, get these ingredients to boost your salad:
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 baguette for croutons
- 1/4 cup grated or shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas, drained
For the dressing, you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 3/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3/4 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and a pinch of salt
These ingredients make a rich, tasty dressing. Your salad will be a hit as a side dish. For more tips on making your salad even better, see this resource.
How to Prepare Shaved Brussels Sprouts
Getting your shaved brussels sprouts ready is key for a great salad. First, trim the stem and remove any wilted leaves. This makes sure you only use the freshest parts.
Then, choose how you want to slice them. You can use a mandolin for even cuts, a food processor for quick work, or a sharp knife for exact slices. Try to make thin ribbons. This helps the dressing stick better.
Pay close attention when preparing the sprouts. They’re the main attraction in your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad. After they’re ready, they’ll blend perfectly with your homemade dressing and other ingredients. You’ll enjoy a tasty and healthy meal.
Steps to Make the Homemade Caesar Dressing
The homemade Caesar dressing is key to making your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad pop. It coats the salad perfectly and makes it a joy to eat. Follow these steps to make a delicious homemade Caesar dressing that goes great with your quick Caesar salad.
Key Ingredients for the Dressing
Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for a tasty dressing. Here’s what you need:
- 2 anchovy fillets
- 6 cloves of minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Mixing Your Sauce
To make your Caesar dressing, start by mashing the anchovies, garlic, and Dijon mustard in a big bowl. This releases their flavors. Then, mix in the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce, whisking until smooth. Make sure everything is well-blended for a creamy texture.
Next, add half of the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. This adds richness. Your dressing should be thick but still pourable.
Your homemade Caesar dressing is now ready to elevate your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad. Store any leftover dressing in a mason jar in the fridge for up to two weeks. This keeps your quick Caesar salad fresh and tasty.
Making the Perfect Croutons
Homemade croutons take your easy caesar salad to the next level. They add a delightful crunch and flavor. Making them is easy and makes your salad even better.
Choosing the Right Bread
Choosing the right bread is key for great croutons. Fresh baguettes, sourdough, or white bread work best. Stay away from pre-packaged bread, as it’s often stale and ruins the croutons’ texture.
Baking Instructions for Crunchy Croutons
To make crunchy croutons:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss the cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, making sure they’re coated evenly.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the seasoned cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15 minutes, turning them halfway for even browning.
- Take them out when they’re golden brown and crispy.
These crunchy croutons make your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad even more delicious. Enjoy making this tasty addition to your meal!
Cooking the Bacon for Extra Flavor
Adding bacon to your shaved Brussels sprouts Caesar salad makes it even more delicious. The savory bacon flavor contrasts well with the fresh veggies. Start by cooking 6-8 slices of bacon in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Cook until crispy, about 8-12 minutes.
After cooking, drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease. Let it cool before chopping it into small pieces. This way, the bacon’s flavor spreads evenly through the salad. The aroma from cooking mixes well with the Caesar dressing, making each bite rich and savory.
Try different types of bacon, like thick-cut or smoked, to add depth to your salad. The crunchy bacon adds a delightful contrast to the creamy dressing. It will make your taste buds happy.
| Nutritional Information | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 378 |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 33g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 37mg |
| Sodium | 733mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Vitamin C | 74mg |
Looking for more salad ideas? Check out this fresh fennel orange salad for inspiration.
Assembling Your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Assembling your salad is easy and fun. Start by getting a big salad bowl ready. This is where you’ll mix flavors and textures together. First, add the shaved Brussels sprouts and Caesar dressing to the bowl. Make sure each sprout is well-coated.
Tossing the Ingredients Together
Then, add half of the croutons and crispy bacon to the bowl. Mix everything gently to spread the flavors evenly. The dressing, sprouts, and crispy bits will make your salad tasty and satisfying.
Final Touches for Presentation
To make your salad look great, place the rest of the croutons and bacon on top. Sprinkle some Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on top for a fancy touch. This adds to the salad’s look and taste.
Storage Tips for Leftover Salad
Proper leftovers storage keeps your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad fresh and tasty. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the salad good for up to three days. Even though the croutons might get a bit soft, they’ll still taste great.
Before you eat the leftover salad, add some fresh touches. A squeeze of lemon juice and a bit more Caesar dressing can make it taste like new. This makes your healthy salad a great choice for lunch or dinner later in the week.
| Storage Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Airtight Container | Use a high-quality airtight container to prevent air from altering the salad’s texture. |
| Refrigeration Duration | Keep the salad refrigerated for up to three days for optimal freshness. |
| Refreshing Ingredients | Incorporate fresh lemon juice and extra dressing just before serving to enhance flavor. |
| Maintain Crispness | Enjoy your salad cold to preserve the crunchiness of the ingredients. |
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are not just tasty; they’re also packed with health benefits. They have only 28 calories per half-cup cooked, but they’re rich in fiber, with over 2 grams. This fiber is great for digestion, especially since many Americans don’t get enough.
Eating Brussels sprouts can also lower health risks. Studies show that eating more cruciferous veggies, like Brussels sprouts, can cut stomach cancer risk by 41%. Plus, eating a variety of fruits and veggies can lower type 2 diabetes risk by 21%. Adding this nutritious side dish to your meals can help fight inflammation and lower cholesterol, reducing heart disease risk.
The benefits of Brussels sprouts extend beyond their nutrients. This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is not only delicious but also full of antioxidants and healthy fats. You can customize it with toppings like dried apricots or cranberries, keeping your health in mind. So, enjoy your meal and know that Brussels sprouts can boost your health, especially during special times like Thanksgiving.
F.A.Q
What are the main ingredients in the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad?
The salad includes 2 pounds of fresh Brussels sprouts and 8 slices of bacon. It also has a ½ baguette for croutons and Parmesan cheese. For the dressing, you’ll need mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, anchovies, and garlic.
How do I prepare the Brussels sprouts for this salad?
First, trim the stem and remove any wilted leaves. Then, use a mandolin, food processor, or sharp knife to shave the sprouts into thin ribbons. This ensures a uniform texture.
Can I make the Caesar dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Caesar dressing ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This keeps it fresh.
Can I make this a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! Omit the bacon and anchovies. Add extra spices or plant-based sauces for a tasty vegetarian Caesar salad.
How long will the salad last in the refrigerator?
The salad stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The croutons might soften from the dressing. But they’ll still taste great.
What can I pair with this salad for a complete meal?
This salad goes well with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty vegetable dish. It’s a great choice for a complete and healthy meal.
