Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad with Pomegranates Recipe

Fresh, Crunchy & Festive: Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad with Pomegranates Recipe

There’s something about fall that makes me crave a little extra crunch and color on my plate. Between hearty roasts, creamy casseroles, and decadent desserts, it’s easy to forget that sometimes, the simplest dishes shine the brightest. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I put together this shaved brussel sprout salad with pomegranates recipe. The crisp texture of shaved Brussels sprouts, the jeweled sparkle of pomegranate seeds, and the irresistible crunch of candied pecans made me fall in love at first bite. It has since become one of my go-to holiday side dishes for Thanksgiving, fall dinners, and even simple weeknight meals when I want something fresh yet festive.

As a food lover and recipe developer, I’ve written countless salad recipes—but this one holds a special place in my heart. I vividly remember testing it for the first time on a chilly autumn afternoon. The kitchen smelled of toasted pecans and warm balsamic, and the sunlight caught the pomegranate arils just right, making them sparkle like rubies. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just a salad—it was a true harvest celebration on a plate.

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Why This Salad Works for Fall & Holidays

Think of this salad as a refreshing balance to the richness of your Thanksgiving table. It’s crisp, tangy, and colorful—everything you want in a side dish to lighten up the heavier mains. The shaved Brussels sprouts bring a refreshing crunchy base, while the pomegranates add bursts of sweetness. Candied pecans bring in that warm, nutty flavor that just screams autumn. And the dressing? A simple mix of lemon and balsamic that ties everything together with a bright, zesty finish.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

• Brussels Sprouts: The star of the show. Shaved thin for that perfect crunch.
• Pomegranate Seeds: Juicy and sweet, they add sparkle and a festive look.
• Candied Pecans: Sweet, caramelized, and crunchy. A holiday favorite.
• Dressing: A combination of lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a hint of Dijon mustard.
• Optional Extras: Dried cranberries, shaved parmesan (if not vegan), or roasted squash for more warmth.

Exact Ingredient Measurements

Here’s the complete list of ingredients you’ll need for 6 servings:

• 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly shaved
• 1 cup fresh pomegranate arils
• 1 cup candied pecans (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup dried cranberries (optional)
• ½ cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Shave Brussels Sprouts

Shaving Brussels sprouts might sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple. Here are three easy ways:

1. Mandolin slicer: Gives the thinnest, most uniform slices. Just be careful with your fingers!
2. Food processor with slicing attachment: Fast and efficient, especially for large batches.
3. Sharp chef’s knife: A bit more time-consuming, but works perfectly if you don’t have fancy tools.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

1. Prepare the Brussels sprouts by shaving them thin using your preferred method.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, pomegranate arils, candied pecans, and dried cranberries.
3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well until everything is evenly coated.
5. Top with shaved Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Amazon Product Recommendations

Whenever I make this salad, there are a few kitchen tools and ingredients that make the process easier and the flavors even better. Here are three of my favorite finds on Amazon:

1. OXO Good Grips Mandoline Slicer

If you want perfectly shaved Brussels sprouts without the hassle, this mandoline slicer is a lifesaver. It slices evenly, has adjustable thickness settings, and is easy to clean. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll never go back to chopping by hand.

👉 Grab your OXO Mandoline Slicer on Amazon

2. Diamond of California Pecan Pie Pecan Nuts

Quality nuts make a huge difference when candying. I love using Diamond pecans because they’re fresh, crunchy, and perfect for toasting. You can candy them at home with sugar and butter, or just toss them straight into the salad.

👉 Shop Diamond Pecans on Amazon

3. Colavita Balsamic Vinegar of Modena

A good balsamic vinegar can transform your dressing from average to amazing. Colavita’s balsamic is rich, tangy, and perfectly balanced, making it my go-to choice for salad dressings.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Colavita+Balsamic+Vinegar" target="_blank">👉 Buy Colavita Balsamic Vinegar on Amazon

Serving Ideas

This salad isn’t just for Thanksgiving. It’s versatile enough to serve at any autumn gathering or even as a weekday lunch. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

• Alongside roast turkey or chicken for a festive holiday meal.

• With roasted butternut squash soup for a cozy fall dinner.
• As a light side dish with grilled salmon or baked tofu.
• Packed into a mason jar for meal-prep lunches.

Variations & Tips

• Grain Bowl Twist: Add cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier harvest-style dish.
• Warm Option: Lightly sauté the shaved Brussels sprouts in olive oil before tossing for a warm variation.
• Nut Swap: Try walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Vegan Swap: Omit Parmesan or replace it with vegan cheese shreds.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

There’s no denying that this shaved brussel sprout salad with pomegranates recipe checks all the boxes: crunchy, colorful, fresh, and festive. It’s the kind of dish that makes people ask, “Who made this salad?” at a holiday gathering. And the best part? It’s easy, healthy, and beautiful enough to grace your table all autumn long.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a way to brighten up your Thanksgiving side dishes or simply want something fresh and satisfying this fall, give this recipe a try. The combination of Brussels sprouts, pomegranates, candied pecans, and lemon-balsamic dressing is more than just a salad—it’s a celebration of the harvest season. Make it once, and I promise it’ll become a holiday tradition in your home too.