If you are on the lookout for a refreshing, vibrant salad that bursts with flavor and crunch, this Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe is your new best friend. It transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a lively medley of fresh veggies, zesty lemon, and bold Parmesan cheese. Every bite delivers a wonderful mix of textures and tastes that feel both comforting and exciting, making it perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish, or even a light dinner. Trust me, once you try this salad, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients that each bring their unique touch to the dish—from crispness to tang, and that nutty, savory finish. Nothing complicated here, just a handful of fresh produce and bright seasonings that harmonize perfectly.
- 4 cups fresh Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced: The star of the show, offering a lovely crunch and slightly sweet bitterness when sliced thin.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness that lighten the salad and add a pop of color.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced: Cool and refreshing, cucumbers add balance and crunch to every bite.
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sharp, mildly spicy edge that wakes up the palate.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty richness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: A fruity, velvety base for the dressing that enriches the salad without overpowering it.
- 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that perfectly cuts through the richness and refreshes the taste buds.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a gentle kick to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
How to Make Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by rinsing the Brussels sprouts under cool water to wash away any dirt or grit. Trim off any brown or tough outer leaves, then slice them thinly using a sharp knife. The thin slicing is crucial because it softens their texture and makes them much easier to eat raw, ensuring the salad is crisp but not too tough.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Next, halve the cherry tomatoes to release their juicy sweetness, dice the cucumber to provide refreshing crunch, and thinly slice the red onion for that gentle sharpness. These colorful veggies add visual appeal and a wonderful balance of flavors against the Brussels sprouts.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until it becomes a smooth, emulsified dressing. This simple vinaigrette enhances the salad without stealing the spotlight from the fresh ingredients.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Combine the sliced Brussels sprouts and chopped vegetables in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the mix and toss well ensuring every morsel is coated in that delicious tangy dressing. Tossing thoroughly unifies the flavors and textures, making every bite equally delightful.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and give a gentle toss just to incorporate it evenly. The Parmesan adds a luscious, salty dimension that elevates the salad to something truly special and satisfying.
Step 6: Ready to Serve
Your Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe is all set! You can dig in right away for that wonderful fresh crunch or chill it a bit if you prefer cooler salads. It’s flexible and forgiving—a big plus for busy cooks.
How to Serve Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, consider adding some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top. Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also add a lovely aroma and a hint of spice to brighten every forkful.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted fish, or even alongside a hearty pasta dish. The bright acidity and crunch help cut through richer flavors, making it a perfect companion for comfort foods.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in individual mason jars for an Instagram-worthy picnic or lunchbox treat. You could also pile it on crostini or nestle it alongside crusty bread for an informal yet impressive appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within one to two days to maintain the freshness and crunch of the Brussels sprouts and veggies.
Freezing
This salad is best served fresh and does not freeze well. Freezing causes the vegetables to become mushy and alters their lovely crisp texture.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, raw salad, reheating is not recommended. If you want a warm side, prepare this salad fresh and serve it alongside a hot dish instead.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this salad?
Frozen Brussels sprouts tend to get mushy when thawed, so fresh Brussels sprouts are highly recommended for that crisp texture essential to this salad.
Is it okay to substitute Parmesan cheese with another type?
Yes, you could use Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier bite or even a crumbled feta for a creamier contrast. Just keep in mind it will change the salad’s traditional flavor profile.
Can this salad be made vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to keep that savory depth.
How long does this salad keep its crunch?
When stored properly in an airtight container, it maintains good crunch for up to two days. Beyond that, the Brussels sprouts may soften and the flavors might mellow.
Is it possible to add protein to make this a full meal?
Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas makes this salad a more substantial meal while keeping all those fresh garden flavors intact.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe is such a wonderful way to embrace fresh, nutritious ingredients without any fuss. Its bright, crisp nature makes it a refreshing escape from heavier dishes, and I can guarantee it will soon become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So go ahead and whip up a batch—you won’t be disappointed and your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad combining thinly sliced Brussels sprouts, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, tossed in a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing and topped with grated Parmesan cheese. This no-cook salad is perfect as a light lunch or side dish, delivering crunch, brightness, and savory undertones.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups fresh Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Rinse Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cool water to remove any debris. Trim off any brown or damaged edges, then slice them thinly to achieve a finely chopped texture that works well in the salad.
- Prepare Other Vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber into small pieces, and thinly slice the red onion to add layers of color and flavor to the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and emulsified, creating a bright and tangy dressing.
- Toss Salad Ingredients: Combine the sliced Brussels sprouts and chopped vegetables in a large salad bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the tossed salad, then gently toss once more to incorporate the cheese evenly throughout the salad.
- Serve or Store: Serve the salad immediately for the best texture and freshness, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to enjoy later.
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- For extra texture, consider adding toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure Parmesan cheese is suitable or substitute with a vegetarian hard cheese.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
