Let me tell you, this Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad is a game-changer! It’s so bright and tangy, with those roasted Brussels sprouts bringing out a sweetness you wouldn’t expect. Trust me, the first time I made this, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it was. The crunchy walnuts and chewy cranberries add the perfect texture, while the creamy feta ties everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, this salad is a delightful way to enjoy your veggies. You’re going to love it!
Ingredients List
Gather these fresh ingredients to whip up your Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go! The freshness of your Brussels sprouts makes all the difference, and don’t skimp on the feta—it’s the cherry on top! Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making this Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad! I promise it’s super easy and oh-so-rewarding. First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, this step is crucial for getting those sprouts perfectly roasted.
Next, grab your Brussels sprouts and toss them in a bowl with the olive oil, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Get in there and mix it all up until they’re well-coated—this is where the magic begins! Once they’re ready, spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized. You’ll know they’re done when they smell amazing and have that lovely golden-brown color.
While the sprouts are roasting, it’s time to whip up that dreamy honey mustard dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until it’s all smooth and well-combined. Oh, the aroma will get your taste buds tingling!
Once the Brussels sprouts are out of the oven and slightly cooled, toss them in a large bowl with the chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle that tangy dressing over everything and give it a good toss to coat all those fabulous flavors. You can serve this salad warm or let it chill to room temperature—either way, it’s going to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet honey, tangy Dijon mustard, and roasted Brussels sprouts creates a taste sensation that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, this salad is a guilt-free way to boost your vegetable intake.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix and match ingredients—swap out walnuts for almonds or add your favorite herbs for an extra pop of flavor!
- Great for Meal Prep: It keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day without losing any of its deliciousness.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast, a summer barbecue, or a simple family dinner, this salad fits right in!
Tips for Success
Now, let’s talk about how to make your Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad absolutely perfect! I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve that I think you’ll find super helpful.
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: Make sure those Brussels sprouts get plenty of time in the oven! Roasting them until they’re golden-brown really enhances their natural sweetness. If you’re crunched for time, cut them smaller for quicker cooking, but keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter salad, don’t hesitate to add a little more honey to the dressing. On the flip side, if you like it tangy, a splash more apple cider vinegar does wonders! Taste as you go, and find that perfect balance.
- Experiment with Nuts: While walnuts add a lovely crunch, you can switch things up with pecans, sliced almonds, or even sunflower seeds. Each nut brings its own flavor and texture, so feel free to get creative!
- Fresh Herbs Are Your Friend: Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or even basil for an extra layer of flavor. Just chop them finely and mix them in with the other ingredients. It really brightens the dish!
- Serve It Chilled: This salad is just as delicious served cold! If you’re prepping it ahead of time, let it chill in the fridge for a bit before serving. It’s a refreshing option on a warm day or as a make-ahead dish for gatherings.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to mastering this Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad. Enjoy every bite of your creation!
Variations
I absolutely love how versatile this Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad can be! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Nutty Alternatives: If walnuts aren’t your thing, try using pecans for a buttery flavor or sliced almonds for a light crunch. You could even throw in some sunflower seeds for an extra bit of texture and nutrition!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate this salad to new heights! Consider adding chopped parsley, dill, or even some fresh basil for a fragrant twist. Just chop them finely and mix them in for a burst of freshness.
- Cheese Swap: While feta adds a lovely creaminess, feel free to mix it up! Crumbled goat cheese or even shredded Parmesan can give a different, delightful flavor profile. Go with what you love!
- Fruit Additions: For a sweet twist, consider tossing in some sliced apples or pears. They’ll add a lovely crunch and balance the tangy dressing perfectly. Dried fruits like apricots or cherries can also be a delicious addition!
- Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give your salad a bit of heat. It’s a subtle way to add an exciting kick!
- Grains for Heartiness: Want to make it a meal? Add in some cooked quinoa or farro for extra fiber and protein. It’ll turn your salad into a filling dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
With these variations, you can truly make this Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination! Enjoy the process and have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s in this delicious Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad? Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this gives you a good idea of what you’re getting:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg
This salad is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling great! Enjoy the crunch, the flavor, and the goodness all in one bowl. It’s a fantastic way to nourish your body while enjoying every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I make the Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. You can roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the dressing in advance. Just toss everything together when you’re ready to serve. It can even taste better after sitting for a bit as the flavors meld!
What can I substitute for honey in the dressing?
If you’re looking for a different sweetener, maple syrup works beautifully! It’ll give a slightly different flavor but still pairs wonderfully with the Dijon mustard. You could also use agave syrup if you prefer a vegan option.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this salad?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are best for roasting, you can use frozen if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before tossing with the olive oil and seasoning. They may not get as crispy, but they’ll still taste delicious!
How do I store leftovers of the Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The dressing can make the salad soggy over time, so if you want to keep it fresh, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it in just before serving.
Can I add protein to the Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad?
Definitely! This salad can easily be turned into a more filling meal. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some crispy bacon bits would add a nice protein boost and make it even more satisfying!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this fabulous Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad and now you’ve got some leftovers—what to do? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! First, let’s talk storage. Place any leftover salad in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about three days. Just keep in mind that the dressing can make the salad a bit soggy over time, so if you can, store the dressing separately. That way, the sprouts stay crisp and delicious!
If you decide to reheat the salad, you can easily warm it up in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the salad out on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes, just until it’s warmed through. You’ll want to keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking the Brussels sprouts. But honestly, I think this salad is just as delightful served cold, so enjoy it however you like! Whatever you decide, those flavors will still be spot on!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal. The beauty of this salad is its versatility—it pairs beautifully with so many dishes!
- Grilled Chicken: A simple, juicy grilled chicken breast drizzled with a bit of lemon juice complements the tangy flavors of the salad perfectly.
- Quinoa or Brown Rice: Serve the salad over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a hearty, wholesome meal that’s packed with protein.
- Stuffed Peppers: Pair it with stuffed bell peppers filled with quinoa, black beans, and spices for a colorful and nutritious combo.
- Salmon: A piece of oven-baked or pan-seared salmon brings a rich flavor that balances the salad’s sweetness beautifully. Plus, it adds a nice protein boost!
- Toasted Bread: Serve with some warm, crusty bread or a baguette to soak up the dressing—trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!
- Light White Wine: Enjoy a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Pinot Grigio alongside your meal. The refreshing notes of the wine will enhance the salad’s flavors.
With these suggestions, you can create a delightful dining experience that truly highlights your Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad. Mix and match based on what you have on hand or your mood! Enjoy every bite!
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Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad: 5 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and tangy salad featuring roasted Brussels sprouts, drizzled with honey mustard dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
- In a large bowl, combine roasted Brussels sprouts, walnuts, cranberries, and feta cheese.
- Drizzle with honey mustard dressing and toss to coat.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad