Name: Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, shredded; 1 large tart-sweet red apple (such as Honey Crisp), cored and chopped (no need to peel); 3 tablespoons minced shallots (from 1 large shallot); ¾ cup walnuts, toasted if desired and coarsely chopped; ¾ cup thinly sliced and crumbled Parmigiano-Reggiano; ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil; ¼ cup vegetable oil; ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 217 reviews

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant salad that’s bursting with crisp textures and bright flavors, the Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish brings together the crunch of shredded Brussels sprouts, the sweet tang of tart apples, the rich nuttiness of toasted walnuts, and the savory punch of Parmigiano-Reggiano, perfectly balanced by a light, honey-accented vinaigrette. It’s a salad that feels both indulgent and wholesome, making it an ideal side dish for any meal or even a satisfying, light lunch on its own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board placed on a white marbled surface. On the left side of the board, there is a pile of whole fresh Brussels sprouts with bright green leaves, round and tightly packed. On the right side, there are sliced Brussels sprouts pieces, showing the light green and white inner layers with some loose leaves scattered around. A black-handled knife lies horizontally near the top edge of the cutting board, with the blade pointing to the right. The lighting is natural, highlighting the fresh texture of the Brussels sprouts. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly harmonized ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s adding crunch, zest, or creaminess, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.

Brussels sprouts: Shredded for crispness and to soak up the tangy dressing.
Red apple (such as Honey Crisp): Adds a sweet and tart contrast with natural juiciness, no peeling needed.
Minced shallots: Bring a subtle sharpness that enhances the overall flavor.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Provides a rich, fruity base for the dressing.
Vegetable oil: Lightens the dressing for a balanced mouthfeel.
Apple cider vinegar: Introduces a bright, acidic note to cut through the richness.
Honey: Offers gentle sweetness to mellow the vinegar’s bite.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors.
Walnuts: Toasted for a deeper, nuttier flavor and coarsely chopped for texture.
Parmigiano-Reggiano: Thinly sliced and crumbled for a savory, umami finish.

How to Make Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Walnuts

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and positioning the oven rack in the middle. Spread your walnuts evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for 6 to 10 minutes, keeping a close eye so they become lightly golden and fragrant without burning. Toasting intensifies their natural flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to your salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded Brussels sprouts and chopped red apple. Add the minced shallots, extra-virgin olive oil, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the dressing coats every strand of sprouts and piece of apple. This step is key as it softens the Brussels sprouts slightly and lets all the flavors blend deliciously.

Step 3: Let the Flavors Marry

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours. This resting period is what transforms the salad from good to great, allowing the acidity and sweet honey to mellow the sprouts’ natural bitterness and encouraging the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 4: Add the Final Touches

Just before serving, toss in the toasted walnuts and the thinly sliced, crumbled Parmigiano-Reggiano. Give the salad a gentle mix and taste to adjust seasoning if needed. The cheese adds a rich, savory depth that complements the sweetness and crunch while the walnuts provide a lovely contrast of texture.

How to Serve Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad showing three main layers: the bottom layer is finely sliced green Brussels sprouts, the middle layer has small light red apple cubes mixed evenly, and the top layer shows whole walnut pieces and thin white cheese shavings scattered over the salad. There is a light dressing that glistens slightly, and the salad is sprinkled with a small amount of black pepper. Two wooden-handled forks rest on opposite edges of the bowl, one partially inside the salad. The bowl sits on a white marbled textured surface with a white cloth nearby and two clear glasses of water in the upper background, one glass partially out of the frame. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a beautiful presentation and additional flavor, sprinkle some extra walnut halves or shaved Parmesan on top right before serving. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a bright, herbal note that lifts the salad even more, making it pop visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a savory quiche. Because it’s pretty versatile, it can balance heavier dishes with its refreshing crunch and slightly sweet acidity. Think of it as the perfect partner for weeknight dinners or festive holiday spreads.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe in individual mason jars or clear glass bowls to show off its colorful layers. You could also use it as a bed for warm grains like quinoa or farro, turning it into a more substantial meal option that still feels light but delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any salad left over in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind, the flavors will soften over time, so give it a stir and add a splash more apple cider vinegar and vegetable oil before serving to refresh its brightness and texture.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because the apples and Brussels sprouts lose their crispness once thawed. For the best taste and texture, prepare only the amount you expect to eat in a couple of days.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh, raw salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy it cold or at room temperature to fully appreciate the fresh, crunchy textures and vibrant flavors that make this salad so special.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work beautifully as alternatives, offering their own unique crunch and flavor while complementing the rest of the ingredients.

Is it necessary to toast the walnuts?

While optional, toasting walnuts enhances their nuttiness and adds a pleasant crunch that really elevates the salad’s texture and taste.

Can I substitute the Parmigiano-Reggiano with another cheese?

Yes, a hard cheese like Asiago or aged Manchego can be a delicious substitute if you want a slightly different but still savory cheese note.

How long should the salad marinate in the fridge?

At least 30 minutes is essential for softening the Brussels sprouts and melding flavors, but you can refrigerate for up to 4 hours for an even better taste experience.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Just keep the cheese and walnuts separate until serving to maintain their texture, and toss everything together fresh each day.

Final Thoughts

This Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe is truly one of those dishes that wins over hearts and taste buds with every forkful. It’s fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make, making it a perfect addition to your recipe box. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want it on repeat – so go ahead, dive in and enjoy the wonderful harmony of crunch, sweetness, and savory goodness!

Brussels Sprout Salad with Apples, Walnuts & Parmesan Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need