Looking for a salad that combines warmth and flavor with health benefits? Try this Warm Apple and Walnut Brussels Sprouts Salad. It's a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
This salad is packed with Brussels sprouts, crisp apples, and crunchy walnuts. Together, these ingredients bring unique textures and flavors.

Brussels sprouts are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. The apples offer a naturally sweet touch and plenty of fiber. Walnuts contribute healthy fats that are good for your heart. Together, these ingredients make a hearty salad that not only tastes great but also supports your health.
Preparing the salad is simple. You'll be sautéing Brussels sprouts in olive oil until they’re tender and a bright green.
Add apples for sweetness and walnuts for crunch. Season with a touch of apple cider vinegar for a tangy finish.
This salad can be served warm as a side dish or even as a light main course. Use it to complement roasted meats or enjoy it over a bed of grains.
Table of Contents
- The Basics of a Winter Salad
- Selecting and Preparing Your Ingredients
- Crafting the Perfect Dressing
- Assembling the Salad
- RECIPE: Warm Apple and Walnut Brussels Sprouts Salad
- Seasoning and Serving
- Nutrition and Health Benefits
- Modifying the Recipe to Meet Dietary Requirements and Restrictions
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Basics of a Winter Salad

A winter salad is a tasty and fresh dish perfect for colder months. One of the key ingredients is Brussels sprouts. You can use them shredded, shaved, or raw.
Shredded Brussels sprouts make a great base because they are hearty and hold up to dressings and toppings.
The use of apples in winter salads adds a sweet and tart flavor. Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples are favorites. They offer a crisp texture that pairs well with the Brussels sprouts. Diced apples can be mixed into the salad for a burst of sweetness in every bite.
Walnuts bring a crunchy texture to the salad. When they are toasted, they add a nutty flavor that enhances the dish. You can roughly chop them before adding them to the salad mix.
Seasonings like salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar give the salad a balanced taste. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds sweetness, while dried cranberries can provide extra texture and flavor.
These ingredients work together to create a delicious, warm salad perfect for winter.
Selecting and Preparing Your Ingredients
Choosing and preparing your ingredients is key to making a delicious Warm Apple and Walnut Brussels Sprout Salad.
Choosing the Best Apples and Walnuts
For this salad, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work well because they add a bit of tartness that complements the sweet dressing. Dicing the apples into small cubes helps them mix well with the other ingredients.
When choosing walnuts, opt for those that are fresh and without a bitter taste.
Chopped walnuts blend easily with the salad, adding a delightful crunch. Toasting the walnuts lightly enhances their flavor and makes them even more appealing in the dish.
Prepping the Brussels Sprouts
Begin by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and removing any discolored outer leaves. This ensures they look fresh and cook evenly.
Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, thinly slice the Brussels sprouts. This creates fine strands that sauté evenly, allowing them to soften quickly while maintaining a bright green color.
Proper slicing also helps the Brussels sprouts take on the flavors of the olive oil and apple cider vinegar, adding depth to the salad.
Crafting the Perfect Dressing

The dressing for a Warm Apple and Walnut Brussels Sprout Salad brings the flavors together with a mix of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of sweetness from honey or maple syrup.
Each component is important, and the right balance can elevate your dish.
Olive Oil and Vinegar Basics
Start with high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This oil provides a smooth, rich base that complements the earthy Brussels sprouts. Aim for about 2 tablespoons for one pound of sprouts. Choose a fruity or mild variety to keep the flavors balanced.
Apple cider vinegar adds tanginess and a slight bite. Use 1-2 tablespoons to bring out the freshness in the salad.
This vinegar not only adds depth but also enhances the sweetness of the apples and richness of walnuts.
Balancing Sweetness and Tanginess
To balance the tang of the vinegar, add honey or maple syrup. A tablespoon of either will soften the sharpness and introduce a gentle sweetness.
These ingredients pair well with apples and cranberries, creating harmony in every bite.
Dijon mustard can add a hint of spice. Just a teaspoon enhances the dressing with a bit of heat.
And a squeeze of lemon juice can offer a fresh burst, if desired. Together, these elements create a dressing that ties the salad ingredients beautifully.
Assembling the Salad

To start, gather all your ingredients.
You'll need 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, 1 large apple, ½ cup of walnuts, and seasonings. For added flavor, consider including dried cranberries and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Don't forget a drizzle of olive oil to bring everything together.
Begin by thinly slicing your Brussels sprouts. You can use either a mandoline or a sharp knife. It’s important to get even slices so they cook well in the skillet.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the Brussels sprouts, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes. You'll know they’re done when they turn bright green and soften a bit. Stir occasionally.
Once the sprouts are cooked, add in the diced apple and chopped walnuts. Keep stirring for another 3-4 minutes.
This will slightly soften the apples and toast the walnuts, bringing out their flavors.
Next, season the mix with salt and pepper. A drizzle of apple cider vinegar will brighten up the flavors.
For a touch of sweetness, you can add a little honey or maple syrup. If you like more texture, toss in some dried cranberries.
Before serving, mix everything well.
This warm salad is perfect as a side dish or even a light main course. If you’d like more greens, consider adding baby arugula for a peppery kick.
This dish pairs well with dishes like roasted chicken or grilled fish, and it can be served over grains like quinoa for a satisfying meal.
RECIPE: Warm Apple and Walnut Brussels Sprouts Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and diced
- ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any discolored leaves. Thinly slice them using a sharp knife or mandoline.Cook the Brussels Sprouts:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Brussels sprouts and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften and turn bright green. Stir occasionally.Add Apples and Walnuts:
Add the diced apples and chopped walnuts to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the apples soften slightly and the walnuts toast.Season and Flavor:
Season the salad with salt and pepper. Drizzle apple cider vinegar over the salad and mix well. For extra sweetness, add honey or maple syrup and dried cranberries if you like.Serve:
You can enjoy the salad warm as a side dish or a light main dish.
Pairing Suggestions
Main Course: Serve alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or grilled fish for a complete meal.
Soup: Pair with a warm bowl of butternut squash soup or potato leek soup for a comforting winter meal.
Grains: Serve over a bed of quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.
Cooking Tips
Slicing Brussels Sprouts: Use a mandoline for quick and even slicing, or a sharp knife if you prefer.
Apple Choice: Use a crisp and slightly tart apple like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast.
Walnut Toasting: Ensure the walnuts are lightly toasted in the skillet for a richer, nuttier flavor.
Seasoning and Serving
Getting the flavors right is key to making this salad delicious.
Sea salt and black pepper can enhance flavors, while Parmigiano-Reggiano offers a savory touch.
Serve the salad as a side dish to complement various main courses.
Enhancing Flavor with Seasoning
Start by sprinkling a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the warm salad. These basic seasonings balance the natural sweetness of the apples and the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts.
You can also drizzle a bit of extra-virgin olive oil for added richness. Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese can add a savory depth. If you like a hint of sweetness, consider adding honey or maple syrup. These pair well with dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This salad is versatile. Serve it warm as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish. It complements main courses that are rich and hearty. The salad is also great next to a comforting soup, like butternut squash.
For a vegetarian-friendly meal, pair it with grains like quinoa or farro. These options add texture and nutrition, making the salad more filling. The combination of apples, walnuts, and Brussels sprouts makes it a refreshing and flavorful choice for any occasion.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Brussels Sprouts: These small green vegetables are full of vitamins C and K. Vitamin C supports your immune system, while vitamin K helps keep your bones strong. Brussels sprouts also have antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.
Apples: Apples add natural sweetness to the salad and are a great source of fiber. Fiber can help with digestion and keep you feeling full. Eating apples can also help your heart health.
Walnuts: Walnuts are rich in healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are good for your heart. Walnuts also have antioxidants, which may reduce inflammation in your body.
Adding dried cranberries can give your salad extra flavor and a bit of natural sugar. They also contain some fiber and antioxidants.
This salad provides essential nutrients that support your overall well-being. The combination of ingredients offers a balance of different health benefits, making it a valuable addition to a varied diet.
Modifying the Recipe to Meet Dietary Requirements and Restrictions

To make this salad vegan, replace honey with maple syrup if sweetness is desired. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the olive oil and cranberries, are plant-based and without animal by-products.
For a gluten-free version, double-check that all ingredients, especially any optional additions, do not contain gluten. This recipe inherently uses gluten-free components.
If you need a nut-free option, swap out walnuts with roasted chickpeas. They provide a similar crunch and protein content.
For those following a low-sugar diet, omit the honey or maple syrup and dried cranberries. Use a tart apple variety to balance the salad's flavors without added sweetness.
Want a low-fat version? You can reduce the olive oil quantity, using only one tablespoon or even less when cooking. Steaming the Brussels sprouts instead of sautéing them also helps cut fat content.
If you're looking for more fiber, consider adding diced pears or extra apples. These fruits enhance the salad's natural sweetness while boosting fiber content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brussels sprout and apple salad is tasty and simple to make. It works well as a warm dish with sweet apples and crunchy walnuts, offering a mix of flavors and textures. This salad can cater to different tastes and dietary needs by adding various ingredients and nutrients.
What type of Brussels sprouts should I use?
Choose fresh Brussels sprouts that are firm and green. They should be free of yellowing leaves or dark spots to ensure the best taste and texture for your salad.
How do I prepare the Brussels sprouts?
Trim the ends and remove any wilted outer leaves. Use a sharp knife or mandoline to thinly slice them for even cooking and a delicate texture in the salad.
How can you appropriately shave Brussels sprouts for a salad?
Use a mandoline for thin, even slices. If using a knife, stack a few sprouts at a time for easier slicing. Aim for slices about ⅛-inch thick.
What is a good method for roasting Brussels sprouts to use in a salad?
Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes until they are tender and caramelized.
Which variety of apples is best suited for a Brussels sprout and walnut salad?
Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples are ideal. They offer a crisp texture and a sweet-tart flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can use other nuts like pecans or almonds. Just make sure to chop them roughly and toast them lightly for added flavor.
What are some suitable alternatives to walnuts for those with nut allergies in a Brussels sprout salad?
Try using seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. They provide a nice crunchy texture without the allergens.
What type of dressing pairs well with a warm Brussels sprout and apple salad?
A simple dressing of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey or maple syrup works well. You can also try a Dijon mustard vinaigrette for a tangy twist.
Can you suggest some protein options to add to a brussels sprout salad for a complete meal?
Grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or roasted chickpeas are excellent choices. These proteins add more nutrients and make the salad heartier.
What other ingredients can I add to the salad to enhance texture, flavor, and nutrition?
Consider adding dried cranberries, cheese like feta or goat cheese, or even quinoa for extra nutrition and flavor.
Can I serve the salad cold?
Yes, you can serve it at room temperature or chilled. Make sure to adjust seasonings and add ingredients like nuts just before serving to maintain their texture.
What dishes pair well with this salad?
This salad goes well with roasted meats like chicken or pork. It's also a good companion to hearty soups. You can also serve it over grains for a complete meal.
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