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Brussels Sprout, Kale, and Apple Salad That Wins Over Even the Pickiest Eaters

Brussels Sprout, Kale, and Apple Salad
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This Brussels Sprout, Kale, and Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar and Bacon is a flavorful fall salad that balances fresh greens with sweet apples, tangy cheddar, smoky bacon, and a zesty vinaigrette. It’s a crowd-pleasing side perfect for holiday meals or a hearty standalone dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts
  • 1 large bunch kale (any variety)
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 Granny Smith apple, diced or julienned
  • ⅓ cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, diced
  • 5 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (fat reserved)
  • 1 small shallot, minced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon reserved bacon fat, warmed to liquify

Instructions

  1. Clean and remove any brown or yellow leaves from the Brussels sprouts, then slice or shave them thinly. Add to a large bowl.
  2. Remove tough stems from the kale, roll the leaves, and slice into thin ribbons. Add to the bowl with Brussels sprouts.
  3. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and massage greens until softened and reduced in volume.
  4. Add diced apple, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon to the bowl.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in remaining olive oil and reserved bacon fat until emulsified.
  6. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss thoroughly to combine. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use a mandoline slicer for best results when shaving Brussels sprouts.
  • Cut the apple just before serving to maintain freshness.
  • To make it vegetarian, replace bacon fat with neutral oil and serve bacon on the side.
  • Components can be prepped up to 3 days ahead and stored separately.

Find it online: https://www.cookwithbenchi.com/brussels-sprout-kale-and-apple-salad/