If you’re looking for a salad that bursts with vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and a delightful crunch, then you have to try this Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Strawberries, Apple, and Bacon Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of crisp shaved Brussels sprouts, juicy strawberries, sweet-tart apple, and smoky bacon, all tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing with creamy feta cheese. Whether you want a refreshing lunch, a stunning side dish for dinner, or a healthy snack that feels indulgent, this salad brings everything you crave in one bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this salad plays an important role, combining simple yet vibrant flavors and textures that make this dish truly special. From the earthy crunch of the Brussels sprouts to the sweet burst of strawberries and the savory depth of bacon, each component shines on its own while contributing to a balanced overall taste.
- 6 cups shaved Brussels sprouts: Fresh and crisp, they form the hearty, crunchy base of the salad.
- 4 strips of bacon: Adds smoky richness and a pleasing crunch once cooked to perfection.
- 1 pound strawberries: Sweet and juicy, these brighten the salad with vivid color and fresh flavor.
- 1 green apple: Tart and crisp, it provides a juicy contrast and a nice pop of acidity.
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta: Creamy and slightly tangy, feta adds a wonderful depth and smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: The base of the dressing, bringing tang and sweetness to the mix.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Creates a smooth, rich dressing that coats the salad perfectly.
- Salt & pepper: Enhances and balances all the flavors, bringing them together beautifully.
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Strawberries, Apple, and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon to Crispy Perfection
Start by cutting your bacon strips into roughly 1-inch pieces. Place them in a medium skillet over medium heat and cook for about 6 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally until the bacon reaches your desired crunchiness. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool while draining off excess grease. This step ensures you get that perfect crispy, savory bite every time without greasy residue.
Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Strawberry Dressing
While the bacon cooks, it’s time to whip up the dressing. In a blender or food processor, combine 3 hulled strawberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend everything together until the dressing is smooth and beautifully emulsified, packing a sweet and tangy punch that complements all the other ingredients. Setting this aside while you prep the salad ingredients lets the flavors meld together nicely.
Step 3: Shave the Brussels Sprouts
If you’re not using pre-shaved Brussels sprouts, clean them by removing the ends and any damaged outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half, then carefully slice into thin, delicate shreds until you have about 6 cups. The thin shaves help the sprouts become tender and easy to eat while still retaining their wonderful crunch — a key element in this salad’s texture profile.
Step 4: Slice Strawberries and Dice the Apple
Slice the remaining strawberries to keep that fresh, juicy element intact in larger bites throughout the salad. Dice your green apple into small chunks, leaving the skin on for extra color and crunch. The apple’s tartness and crispness add an exciting contrast that lifts the entire dish.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together and Serve
In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, sliced strawberries, diced apple, crispy bacon, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the salad with your homemade balsamic strawberry dressing and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. This final step brings all those diverse flavors and textures together beautifully, creating a salad that’s fresh, vibrant, and absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Strawberries, Apple, and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle some toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and a nutty aroma. Fresh herbs such as mint or basil can also be scattered over the salad to elevate its freshness and add a fragrant note that pairs wonderfully with the fruit.
Side Dishes
This salad works wonderfully as a stand-alone lunch but also makes a vibrant side for grilled chicken, roasted pork, or salmon. It’s also a fantastic complement to rich pasta dishes, cutting through the heaviness with its bright crispness and tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch or pack it into a colorful bowl for an inviting picnic spread. Layering the ingredients instead of tossing them right away can make for a stunning visual effect before mixing. You can also serve it on a large platter with some whole wheat crackers or hearty bread on the side for a delightful appetizer arrangement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from the Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Strawberries, Apple, and Bacon Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate if possible and add it just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the Brussels sprouts and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh produce and crisp textures involved. The Brussels sprouts, strawberries, and apples will lose their firmness, and the bacon and feta can become watery or mushy upon thawing.
Reheating
Since this salad is meant to be enjoyed cold and fresh, reheating is not recommended. However, if you want to warm the bacon separately, you can reheat it gently in a skillet to regain some crispiness and then add it back to the cold salad just before serving.
FAQs
Can I substitute the bacon with a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! You can replace bacon with crispy smoked tempeh, coconut bacon, or even roasted chickpeas to achieve a similar smoky crunch without meat.
What’s the best way to shave Brussels sprouts?
The easiest way is to use a sharp knife to slice them thinly or a mandoline slicer for consistent thin strips. This helps keep the sprouts tender and easy to eat raw in the salad.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries and apple?
Yes, for a seasonal twist, pears or cherries can be great swaps. Just be mindful of balancing sweetness and acidity to keep the salad refreshing.
How long will this salad stay fresh once tossed with dressing?
For best texture and flavor, enjoy it within 1 to 2 hours after tossing with dressing. The Brussels sprouts will begin to soften over time once dressed.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Keep the components separate — shaved Brussels sprouts, chopped fruit, cooked bacon, and dressing — then assemble right before eating to maintain freshness and crunch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the way the ingredients in the Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Strawberries, Apple, and Bacon Recipe come together – vibrant, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. It’s a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, and I promise once you try it, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Go ahead, give it a whirl and enjoy every fresh, crunchy, juicy bite!
Print
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Strawberries, Apple, and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A vibrant and fresh shaved Brussels sprout salad combined with sweet strawberries, crisp green apple, savory bacon, and tangy feta, all tossed in a homemade balsamic vinaigrette. This salad offers a delightful balance of crunchy textures and bright flavors, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 6 cups shaved Brussels sprouts (about 4–5 Brussels sprouts per cup)
- 4 strips bacon
- 1 pound strawberries
- 1 green apple
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing
- 3 strawberries (stems & leaves removed)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Cut the bacon into 1-inch pieces. Heat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon pieces for 6-9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they reach your desired level of crispiness. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease and cool down.
- Make the Dressing: While the bacon cooks, prepare the dressing by placing 3 strawberries (stems and leaves removed), balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper into a blender or food processor. Blend for about 10 seconds until the mixture is smooth and emulsified. Set aside the dressing.
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: If not pre-shaved, clean the Brussels sprouts by removing the ends and outer leaves. Cut them in half, then carefully slice into thin, shaved pieces until you have about 6 cups.
- Prepare the Fruits: Slice the remaining strawberries and dice the green apple into small pieces, leaving the skin on for extra texture and nutrition.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, sliced strawberries, diced apple, cooked bacon, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Shaving the Brussels sprouts thinly ensures a tender texture and makes them easier to eat raw.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute with smoked tempeh or crispy chickpeas.
- The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor in both the salad and dressing.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for a few hours if needed.
