When the leaves start to turn and the air turns crisp, I find myself yearning for vibrant, hearty dishes that capture the essence of autumn. This Brussels Sprout, Kale, and Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar and Crispy Bacon is a delightful ode to the season, bringing together crunchy greens, tart apples, and the savory richness of bacon. It’s the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent—ideal for your Thanksgiving table or as a star attraction at any fall gathering.
As I chopped the Brussels sprouts and massaged the kale, the colorful ingredients sparked my creativity in the kitchen. The tangy dressing, spiked with Dijon and a hint of honey, takes this salad to an entirely new level, enveloping each bite with bright flavors and textures. Honestly, it’s hard to believe something so fresh and delicious can be so simple to whip up! Let’s dive into this recipe that guarantees to please any crowd, whether you’re an experienced chef or just someone looking to escape the fast food routine.
Why will you love this Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad?
Vibrant, Flavorful Ingredients: This Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad celebrates autumn with its stunning blend of fresh greens, crisp apples, and sharp cheddar.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that impresses.
Nutritious Yet Indulgent: The addition of crispy bacon elevates the salad, making it both healthy and indulgent, perfect for Thanksgiving!
Texture Harmony: Crunchy Brussels sprouts and pecans meet creamy cheddar, while the sweet-tart apples add refreshing pops of flavor.
Versatile Side Dish: Whether alongside roasted turkey or as a standalone lunch, this salad shines in any fall setting!
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad Ingredients
• Dive into the freshest flavors of autumn with this delightful salad!
For the Greens
- Brussels Sprouts – Base ingredient that adds crunch and earthiness; choose larger sprouts for easier slicing.
- Kale – Boosts nutrient density; any variety works, but Tuscan kale is preferred for its tenderness.
For the Salad Mix
- Granny Smith Apple – Provides tartness and texture; Honey Crisp apples can sweeten the deal if you prefer.
- Pecans – Add a delightful crunch; remember to toast them for maximum flavor, or substitute with almonds.
- Dried Cranberries – Offer sweetness and chewiness; consider fresh cherries for an exciting twist.
- Extra Sharp Cheddar – Delivers a rich flavor contrast with its sharpness; you can also use aged gouda for a different profile.
- Bacon – Introduces indulgent savory notes; regular sliced bacon is recommended, but turkey bacon can lighten things up.
For the Dressing
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The base of the dressing that adds richness; always opt for high-quality for the best taste.
- Shallot – Delivers a mild onion flavor that enhances the dressing.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides necessary acidity to balance the dish; don’t skip this for a bright flavor.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds tang and helps emulsify your dressing beautifully.
- Honey – Gives a hint of sweetness; maple syrup becomes a wonderful vegan alternative.
- Reserved Bacon Fat – Adds depth to the dressing—though optional, it enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
This Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of fall’s bounty that you won’t want to miss!
How to Make Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad
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Prep Greens: Start by removing any tough outer leaves and stems from the Brussels sprouts and kale. Slice the Brussels sprouts thinly—aim for about 1/8 inch for maximum crunch—then chiffonade the kale into bite-sized pieces.
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Massage Greens: Drizzle a generous tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the prepared greens. Gently massage the kale and Brussels sprouts for about 2-3 minutes until they soften and are well-coated—this makes a big difference in texture!
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Add Ingredients: Toss in the diced Granny Smith apple for a tart bite, along with the toasted pecans, dried cranberries, sharp cheddar, and crumbled bacon. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for a balanced bite every time.
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Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the finely chopped shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Gradually incorporate the remaining olive oil and, if using, warm bacon fat until the dressing is emulsified and creamy.
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Combine and Serve: Pour the dressing over your salad and toss everything together until well-coated. Serve the salad immediately, allowing all those fresh flavors to shine!
Optional: Garnish with extra pecans or a sprinkle of cheese for added flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad
Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
Dressing Storage: The dressing can be made ahead and will last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keep it in a sealed jar, shaking it well before use.
Freezer: Avoid freezing the salad as the texture of the greens and the apples can become mushy upon thawing.
Reheating: This dish is best enjoyed cold and fresh, so avoid reheating for optimal taste and texture.
What to Serve with Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad?
This delightful salad brightens any meal with its unique blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect centerpiece on your table.
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Roasted Turkey: The savory flavors of turkey complement the sweetness of the salad, making it a classic pairing for Thanksgiving.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes add a comforting softness that contrasts beautifully with the salad’s crunch.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken brings additional protein and richness, enhancing the party of flavors at any gathering.
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Stuffing: Pair with savory stuffing for a satisfying meal where the crispy salad offers a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
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Autumn Vegetable Medley: A warm blend of roasted root vegetables will mirror the salad’s seasonal charm, creating a symphony of fall flavors on your plate.
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Fresh Bread: A crusty loaf, perfect for soaking up the tangy dressing, would beautifully complement the vibrancy of the salad.
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Sparkling Cider: Refreshing and slightly sweet, this drink balances the salad’s sharp cheddar and crispy bacon notes providing a delightful sip with each bite.
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Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, this seasonal treat offers a sweet finale that pairs well with the salad’s savory elements and wholesome crunch.
Make Ahead Options
These Brussels Sprout, Kale, and Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar and Bacon is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice and store the Brussels sprouts and kale up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, consider making the dressing (which can be stored for up to 5 days) and combining it right before serving to maintain that vibrant flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toss the prepped greens with diced apples, toasted pecans, cranberries, cheddar, and crumbled bacon, pour on the dressing, and enjoy a delicious, stress-free meal that’s just as delightful!
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this recipe your own—with delicious twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Blue Cheese: Swap sharp cheddar for blue cheese for a bold, creamy flavor that heightens the salad’s richness.
- Crispy Chickpeas: Replace bacon with crispy chickpeas for a crunchy, plant-based alternative that delivers satisfying protein.
- Sliced Almonds: Use sliced almonds in place of pecans for a delicate crunch that complements the salad beautifully.
- Citrus Zest: Add a touch of orange or lemon zest to the dressing to brighten the flavors and enhance the fall vibe.
- Maple Syrup: For added sweetness, substitute honey with maple syrup to infuse a lovely autumn flavor into the dressing.
- Shredded Brussels Sprouts: Instead of whole Brussels sprouts, use shredded raw Brussels for a finer texture and easier eating experience.
- Honeycrisp Apple: Try Honeycrisp apples instead of Granny Smith for a sweeter twist, creating a delightful balance between sweet and savory.
- Spicy Radishes: Add thinly sliced radishes for a peppery kick that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the apples.
Expert Tips for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad
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Perfect Slicing: Use a mandoline for slicing Brussels sprouts to achieve uniform thickness, ensuring an even crunch throughout the salad.
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Freshness Matters: Add the apples just before serving to prevent browning, keeping your Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad looking vibrant and fresh.
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Flavor Boost: Toast your pecans before adding them to the salad; this simple step enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
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Dress Wisely: Emulsify your dressing thoroughly; drizzling the olive oil slowly while whisking will yield a creamy texture that clings wonderfully to the salad ingredients.
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Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dressing up to five days in advance and store it separately; this saves time without compromising flavor!
Brussels Sprout, Kale, and Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar and Crispy Bacon Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm and compact. Avoid any with dark spots all over, as this indicates spoilage. Larger sprouts are easier to slice and provide a satisfying crunch in the salad.
What’s the best way to store leftover salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend separating the dressing and salad ingredients until you’re ready to enjoy them again, as this prevents wilting and maintains the texture of the greens.
Can I freeze this Brussels Sprout, Kale, and Apple Salad?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad. The greens, apples, and cheese could become mushy once thawed, affecting the fresh taste and texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so try to make only what you can eat within a few days!
What should I do if the salad dressing is too thick?
If you find your dressing is too thick, simply whisk in a little water or additional olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You can also adjust the balance of flavors by adding more vinegar for acidity or honey for sweetness based on your preference.
Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Yes! If you have any dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this salad. Substitute the bacon with crispy chickpeas for a plant-based option. If allergies are a concern, make sure to check for potential allergens among the nuts and cheese. Always opt for gluten-free ingredients if necessary.
How can I make this salad ahead of time for a dinner party?
Absolutely! To prepare this salad ahead, you can make the dressing up to 5 days in advance—just store it in a sealed jar. Chop the Brussels sprouts and kale a day ahead, and keep them in an airtight container. Just remember to add the apple and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad: Cheddar Bacon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by removing any tough outer leaves and stems from the Brussels sprouts and kale. Slice the Brussels sprouts thinly—aim for about 1/8 inch for maximum crunch—then chiffonade the kale into bite-sized pieces.
- Drizzle a generous tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the prepared greens. Gently massage the kale and Brussels sprouts for about 2-3 minutes until they soften and are well-coated.
- Toss in the diced Granny Smith apple for a tart bite, along with the toasted pecans, dried cranberries, sharp cheddar, and crumbled bacon. Ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the finely chopped shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Gradually incorporate the remaining olive oil and bacon fat until emulsified.
- Pour the dressing over your salad and toss everything together until well-coated. Serve immediately.