Save Discover a vibrant and refreshing salad that brings together the crispness of finely shaved Brussels sprouts with the bright zest of lemon, the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds, and the savory richness of Parmesan cheese. This Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Salad is an easy-to-make modern European dish that requires no cooking, perfect for a quick, healthy meal or a colorful side.
Save This salad combines fresh, raw ingredients that can be enjoyed immediately for a crisp experience or allowed to sit briefly to develop softer, blended flavors. The use of shallots adds mild pungency, while the honey in the dressing balances acidity with subtle sweetness.
Ingredients
- Vegetables
- 500 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and finely shredded
- 2 small shallots, thinly sliced
- Nuts & Cheese
- 60 g sliced almonds, toasted
- 50 g Parmesan cheese, shaved or finely grated
- Dressing
- 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. Combine Vegetables
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded Brussels sprouts and sliced shallots.
- 2. Make Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- 3. Dress Salad
- Pour the dressing over the Brussels sprouts mixture and toss well to combine.
- 4. Add Nuts & Cheese
- Add the toasted almonds and most of the Parmesan cheese, reserving some for garnish. Toss gently.
- 5. Serve
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan and extra almonds if desired.
- 6. Optional Rest
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or let sit for 10–15 minutes to mellow flavors.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a more intense flavor, try finely mincing the garlic just before adding it to the dressing to preserve its pungency. Toast the almonds carefully to enhance their nuttiness without burning. Using a mandoline will ensure uniformly thin shreds of Brussels sprouts, which helps the dressing coat each piece evenly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can add crisped bacon or prosciutto for an extra savory element. To vary the nut and cheese profile, substitute pecorino cheese for Parmesan or walnuts for almonds according to your taste or dietary needs.
Serviervorschläge
This salad pairs wonderfully alongside grilled chicken or fish, adding freshness and texture contrast to your meal. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to one day if necessary.
Save With its crisp textures, bright citrus notes, and rich Parmesan undertones, this salad is a perfect example of simple ingredients elevated by thoughtful preparation. Enjoy as a light lunch or a stunning accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What gives this salad its crunch?
The combination of finely shredded Brussels sprouts and toasted sliced almonds provides a satisfying crunchy texture.
- → Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, the lemon, Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic dressing can be whisked together ahead of time for convenience.
- → Are there alternatives to Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino cheese works well as a substitute, offering a similar sharp and salty flavor profile.
- → How long should the salad sit before serving?
For maximum crunch, serve immediately. Letting it sit 10-15 minutes softens the textures and blends the flavors.
- → What proteins pair well with this salad?
Grilled chicken or fish complement the salad's fresh and tangy character, making a balanced meal.