If you’re looking for a salad that perfectly balances healthy and indulgent, you’ve come to the right place! This Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon is not only vibrant and full of flavor but also packed with wholesome ingredients. It’s a go-to favorite in my home, especially during fall gatherings or Thanksgiving feasts. The combination of crunchy Brussels sprouts, crisp kale, sweet apples, and just enough savory bacon makes it a hit at any table.
Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends and family, this salad is versatile enough for all occasions. It’s quick to whip up, and I promise it will impress even the pickiest eaters!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: This salad comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute side dish.
- Family-friendly appeal: With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy it!
- Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and toss them together just before serving.
- Deliciously balanced: The mix of nutritious greens and indulgent cheese and bacon creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual weekday meal, this salad fits right in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that create a deliciously satisfying salad. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
For the Salad
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 1 large bunch kale (any variety)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 Granny Smith apple (diced or julienned; peeling optional)
- ⅓ cup pecans (toasted and roughly chopped)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (diced)
- 5 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled; bacon fat reserved)
For the Vinaigrette
- 1 small shallot (minced)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 tablespoon reserved bacon fat (warmed up to liquify if solid)
Variations
One of the best things about this salad is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:
- Go plant-based: Swap out the bacon for crispy chickpeas or roasted mushrooms to keep it vegetarian while still adding texture.
- Add more crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch that pairs beautifully with the greens.
- Try different cheeses: If sharp cheddar isn’t your thing, feta or goat cheese would add creamy tanginess that complements the sweetness of the apples.
- Make it spicy-sweet: Drizzle some hot honey over the top before serving for a delightful kick that enchants your taste buds.
How to Make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Step 1: Prepare the Greens
Clean and remove any brown or yellow leaves from the Brussels sprouts. Slice them as thin as possible—using a mandoline slicer makes this step super easy! Add these beautiful green slices to a large bowl.
Step 2: Chop the Kale
Next, remove the tough stems from your kale. Stack the leaves and roll them up like a cigar before slicing them into thin ribbons. This technique not only looks great but also makes eating easier. Toss these ribbons into your bowl with the Brussels sprouts.
Step 3: Massage the Greens
Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over your greens and sprinkle with salt. Now comes the fun part! Use your clean hands to massage those greens until they’re coated in oil. This helps break down their toughness and enhances their flavor.
Step 4: Add Crunchy Toppings
Time to mix in all those yummy toppings! Add diced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon into your bowl. Each ingredient brings its own unique texture and flavor that makes this salad special.
Step 5: Whisk Together the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly stream in remaining olive oil along with warmed-up bacon fat while whisking until everything is nicely emulsified. Taste it—feel free to adjust seasoning!
Step 6: Dress Your Salad
Pour that lovely vinaigrette over your salad mixture and gently toss everything together until well combined. Serve immediately for maximum freshness; you want those flavors dancing on your palate!
Enjoy this Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon as a delightful addition to any meal!
Pro Tips for Making Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Creating the perfect salad is all about the details, and these tips will help you elevate your dish!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh Brussels sprouts and kale to ensure vibrant flavors and crisp textures. Fresh produce not only tastes better but also enhances the overall nutritional value.
Toast Your Nuts: Toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and adds a delightful crunch to your salad. This simple step can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
Massage the Greens: Don’t skip massaging the kale and Brussels sprouts! This process softens their texture, making them more enjoyable to eat and allowing them to absorb the vinaigrette better.
Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey in your vinaigrette based on your taste preference. Balancing sweetness with acidity can make a big difference in flavor.
Serve Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve your salad immediately after tossing it with the vinaigrette. This ensures that all ingredients remain crisp and fresh.
How to Serve Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon
Presenting your salad beautifully can make it even more appealing. Here are some creative ideas for serving this delicious dish!
Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top provides a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
- Additional Cheese: Crumble some extra sharp cheddar on top just before serving for an appealing finish that enhances the cheese’s rich flavor.
Side Dishes
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds a nutty flavor and complements the salad’s textures without overpowering it. It’s also packed with protein!
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of this salad, adding warmth to your meal.
- Grilled Chicken Breast: For those looking for protein, a simple grilled chicken breast served alongside offers a satisfying balance to this light salad.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit as a side; its crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the salad while providing comforting flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and making your weeknight dinners a breeze.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- The salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- If possible, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the salad’s crunchiness.
Freezing
- This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the greens and cheese after thawing.
- It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.
Reheating
- While this salad is best served cold, you can gently reheat it in a pan over low heat if you prefer it warm.
- Be careful not to overcook; just warm it enough to take the chill off without wilting the greens significantly.
FAQs
Can I make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the components of this salad a day in advance. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
What are some good alternatives for bacon in Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon?
If you want to omit bacon, try using crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without meat.
How long does Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon last in the fridge?
The salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans in this salad?
Yes! Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is there a vegetarian version of Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon?
Certainly! You can skip the bacon and add a plant-based alternative like smoked tempeh for that savory flavor.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this delicious Brussels sprout, kale + apple salad with sharp cheddar + bacon as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meals while still indulging a bit. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your variations, and share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Turkey
Discover the perfect blend of flavors in this vibrant Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Turkey. Crisp Brussels sprouts and hearty kale create a nutritious base, while sweet apples and crunchy pecans elevate the dish. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese provides a delightful creaminess that complements the savory turkey perfectly. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for fall gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 1 large bunch kale
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 Granny Smith apple, diced
- ⅓ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, diced
- 5 strips cooked turkey, crumbled
Instructions
- Clean and thinly slice Brussels sprouts; place in a large bowl.
- Remove kale stems and slice leaves into thin ribbons; add to the bowl.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Massage greens until coated.
- Mix in diced apple, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, cheddar cheese, and crumbled turkey.
- In a separate bowl, whisk minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Pour vinaigrette over salad and gently toss to combine.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (200g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
