Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Salad Recipe: A Vibrant, Nutritious Delight

Welcome to the world of bold flavors and nourishing ingredients with this Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Salad recipe. Perfectly balancing textures and tastes, this salad packs a punch with crunchy Brussels sprouts, sweet-tart pomegranates, and a zesty lemon dressing. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a healthful yet delicious meal option.

Why This Recipe Works

• Crisp Brussels sprouts and juicy pomegranate seeds create a delightful textural contrast.
• The lemon vinaigrette adds a bright and zesty note to balance the dish.
• Rich in vitamins K and C, the salad supports a strong immune system.
• High fiber content aids in digestion and promotes fullness.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and thinly sliced
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Bowl for mixing
• Whisk
• Large salad bowl

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the ends off the Brussels sprouts with a sharp knife. Slice them thinly and uniformly for even texture throughout the salad. If you have a mandoline slicer, it will speed up the process. Transfer the sliced Brussels sprouts to a large salad bowl, ready to be mixed with other ingredients.

Step 2: Toast the Walnuts

Preheat your skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until they become fragrant and slightly browned. Be attentive, as nuts can burn quickly. Once toasted, remove them from the skillet and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Whisk until fully emulsified. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste. Making the dressing at home ensures that it’s fresh and free of preservatives found in store-bought options.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Add the pomegranate seeds, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together with clean hands or salad tongs to ensure an even coating of the dressing on every ingredient.

Step 5: Serve

Once everything is well mixed, transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with a few extra pomegranate seeds and some freshly cracked black pepper for an added touch of freshness and spice. This salad can be served immediately or chilled for up to an hour if you prefer a refreshing cold salad.

Tips and Tricks

To easily remove seeds from a pomegranate, gently tap the back of a cut fruit half with a spoon over a bowl. You can prepare the Brussels sprouts a day ahead; just store them in an airtight container. If feta is too salty for your taste, consider trying soft goat cheese as a milder alternative.

Recipe Variations

• For added protein, top the salad with grilled chicken or chickpeas.
• Substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Try adding apple slices or dried cranberries for a sweeter twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal for their crisp texture, you can use thawed frozen sprouts if necessary. They may be softer, so ensure they’re well-drained before slicing.

How can I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The salad may become soggy over time, so it’s best consumed within a day to maintain freshness.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?
To make the salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based.

What are the benefits of Brussels sprouts?
Rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, Brussels sprouts aid digestion, boost immunity, and support heart health, making them a valuable addition to your diet.

Summary

This Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Salad is a nutritious powerhouse and palate pleaser. Packed with vitamins and fiber, this vibrant dish offers textural variety and a balance of flavors that makes healthy eating enjoyable.