If you’re looking for a bright, crunchy salad that feels both fresh and indulgent, the Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Creamy Maple Dressing Recipe should be on your must-make list. This salad balances the crisp bite of thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with the sweet tartness of dried cherries and pomegranate seeds, all brought together by a luscious creamy maple dressing that adds just the right touch of sweetness. It’s perfect for large gatherings or when you want a vibrant side that turns heads and delights every palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven bowls and one apple placed on a white marbled surface. From left to right, there is a large black bowl full of green Brussels sprouts with smooth, leafy textures; next to it is a smaller black bowl filled with a creamy mustard-colored sauce speckled with black pepper, with a metal spoon resting inside. To the right of the sauce, a small white bowl holds green pumpkin seeds that have a smooth, oval shape. Above this bowl sits a bright red and yellow apple with a smooth shiny surface. Next to the apple, a small white bowl is filled with shiny, bright red pomegranate seeds. Below that, a larger white bowl contains dark red dried cranberries with a wrinkled texture. On the far right, a small white bowl holds brown pecans with a rough, ridged surface. The overall layout is clean and organized on the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to making the Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Creamy Maple Dressing Recipe truly shine. Each component plays a special role—from the nutty crunch of toasted pecans to the juicy pop of pomegranate seeds, every bite bursts with flavor and texture.

1½ pounds large Brussels sprouts, very thinly sliced: Thin slicing ensures a tender crunch that’s easy to eat raw and absorbs dressing beautifully.
½ cup pepitas: These little pumpkin seeds add a delicate crunch and subtle nutty flavor.
1½ cups pecan halves, toasted: Toasting deepens their flavor for a warm nutty contrast to the tart fruits.
1 large Honeycrisp apple, cored and sliced: Sweet and crisp apples bring refreshing brightness and color.
1½ cups dried cherries: These add a chewy, tangy sweetness that complements the savory nuts perfectly.
1 cup pomegranate seeds: Gorgeous and jewel-like, they provide bursts of tart juice and vibrant color.
¾ cup creamy maple dressing recipe: The star of the show, this dressing binds all ingredients with its luscious, sweet, and tangy creaminess.

How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Creamy Maple Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by slicing your Brussels sprouts very thinly. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife works best. The goal is to create delicate shreds that retain crispness without being tough or bitter. This thin slicing allows the dressing to coat each piece evenly and makes the whole salad light and refreshing.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

While the sprouts are being sliced, toast your pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat for just a few minutes, until fragrant and slightly golden. Toasting warms up the nuts and unlocks their deep, buttery flavor, which pairs perfectly with the sweetness of dried cherries and maple dressing in the salad.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with the pepitas, toasted pecans, crisp apple slices, dried cherries, and juicy pomegranate seeds. This colorful mix ensures every bite will have layers of texture and flavor, from crunchy to juicy to sweet.

Step 4: Add the Creamy Maple Dressing

Pour the creamy maple dressing over the salad and toss everything gently but thoroughly until every shred and bite is coated in that irresistible dressing. The creamy maple adds a hint of sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the fresh and nutty notes in the salad.

How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Creamy Maple Dressing Recipe

A large white bowl filled with a layered salad starting with finely shredded bright green Brussels sprouts as the base layer. On top, thin red and white slices of apple are evenly placed around the bowl in a circular pattern. Scattered on the salad are dark brown pecans, small dark red dried cranberries, and bright red pomegranate seeds. Light green pumpkin seeds are sprinkled over all layers, adding texture. The salad is lightly seasoned with black pepper and shows a fresh appearance. To the side, a small white bowl contains a creamy light beige dressing with small seasoning specks, accompanied by a spoon. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with green small herb leaves nearby, and a woman's hand holding a wooden serving utensil is partially visible at the edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle a few additional toasted pecans or pepitas on top just before serving. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper and a few microgreens also add brightness and a gourmet touch that is sure to impress guests.

Side Dishes

This salad makes an irresistibly fresh side to roasted meats like chicken or pork, especially during the cooler months when rich, comforting mains pair beautifully with something vibrant and crisp. It’s also fantastic alongside a hearty grain bowl or grilled fish for a lighter meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Creamy Maple Dressing Recipe in individual mason jars for stylish picnics or potlucks, layering nuts and fruits separately before topping with Brussels sprouts and dressing. Another fun idea is to stuff it into pita pockets or serve it on a bed of lightly toasted baguette slices for elegant appetizer bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The salad keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Because the greens are shaved and dressed, they stay tender without becoming soggy immediately, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Keep any extra dressing separate to refresh the salad if needed.

Freezing

Freezing this salad isn’t recommended since the texture of fresh Brussels sprouts, apples, and pomegranate seeds will suffer. The dressing may separate, and the crunch will be lost upon thawing. It’s definitely better as a fresh, made-at-the-time side dish.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be eaten cold or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat it, and warming it could diminish its crisp freshness and alter the creamy maple dressing’s delightful texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work wonderfully if pecans aren’t your favorite. Just toast them lightly to bring out their flavor and maintain that nice crunchy contrast.

Is it possible to make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the creamy maple dressing can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before tossing with the salad to revive its creamy texture.

Can I use frozen pomegranate seeds?

While fresh pomegranate seeds are preferred for their crisp juiciness, frozen ones can be used if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid adding extra liquid to the salad.

Are there any good alternative dressings for this salad?

If you want to switch things up, a tangy balsamic vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing also complement the shaved Brussels sprouts nicely. However, the creamy maple dressing brings a unique sweetness and creaminess that’s hard to beat.

How do I ensure the Brussels sprouts don’t taste bitter?

Choosing larger, fresher Brussels sprouts and slicing them very thin helps reduce bitterness. Tossing them quickly with acidic or sweet dressings like the creamy maple also balances the flavor beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a salad that’s anything but ordinary, you have to try the Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Creamy Maple Dressing Recipe. It’s a bright, flavorful dish that offers crunch, sweetness, and a touch of indulgence in every forkful. Whip it up for your next dinner, and watch it disappear from the table faster than you can say “seconds.” You’ll be so glad you did!