Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad

In my kitchen, this Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad always brings a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that surprises everyone at the table. Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive holiday gathering, this refreshing salad combines the earthiness of Brussels sprouts with the sweet juiciness of pears. Topped with rich Manchego cheese and a zesty dressing, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This salad isn’t just about great taste; it’s a fantastic way to incorporate healthy greens into your meals without sacrificing flavor. The balance of savory and sweet makes it an ideal side dish or a light lunch that pleases both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be prepared in advance.

"This salad has become a favorite at our family dinners! The combination of flavors is simply amazing." – A happy reader

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4

How This Recipe Comes Together

Making this Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad is as easy as it gets! You’ll be thinly shaving Brussels sprouts, slicing pears, and whipping up a quick dressing to drizzle over everything before tossing it all together. Let’s gather the fresh ingredients so we can get started!

What You’ll Need

• Brussels sprouts
• Pear
• Pumpkin seeds
• Dried apple
• Manchego cheese
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Each of these components adds its own unique flavor and texture, making every bite a little adventure.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Thinly shave the Brussels sprouts and place them in a large bowl. This is best done with a sharp knife or a mandoline for super thin pieces.
2. Slice the pear into thin pieces and add them to the bowl. The sweetness will complement the savory sprouts beautifully!
3. Add pumpkin seeds and dried apple to the bowl for a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness.
4. For the dressing, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. This simple dressing is the secret to tying all the flavors together.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Make sure every piece of Brussels and pear is coated!
6. Grate Manchego cheese over the top before serving. This creamy cheese adds a gourmet touch that everyone will love.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

You can serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish for roasted chicken or grilled fish. It would pair beautifully with a glass of white wine or a homemade lemonade on a warm day. For a heartier meal, toss in some grilled chicken or nuts for added protein.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To keep the salad fresh, you may want to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving again.

Pro Chef Tips

• Try to use very fresh Brussels sprouts for the best flavor. The fresher they are, the crunchier and sweeter they will taste!
• For an extra layer of flavor, you can toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet for a few minutes until they’re fragrant.
• If you prefer a creamier salad, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream to the dressing.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative! Add sliced apples or swap out the Manchego cheese for feta for a different taste. You can also throw in some pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and sweetness, or replace the pumpkin seeds with walnuts for a richer flavor.

Nutrition Table

This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a refreshing take on traditional salads. So go ahead, whip up this recipe, and enjoy the burst of flavors that will surely become a hit at your table!