Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad: A Crunchy, Healthy Twist on a Classic

This isn’t your grandma’s Caesar salad! We’re taking the classic creamy dressing and pairing it with the delightful crunch of shaved Brussels sprouts for a healthy and delicious upgrade. This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a lighter, more nutrient-packed version of a beloved favorite. It’s perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a base for adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal.

## Why Brussels Sprouts in Caesar Salad?

If you’re used to Brussels sprouts being boiled or roasted, preparing them shaved for a salad might sound unusual. However, thinly shaving these mini cabbages transforms their texture completely. Raw, shaved Brussels sprouts offer a satisfying crunch and a mild, slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy, savory Caesar dressing.

Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
* **Deliciously Crunchy:** The shaved texture provides a satisfying crunch in every bite.
* **Easy to Make:** This salad comes together quickly with minimal cooking required.
* **Versatile:** Add your favorite protein to make it a complete meal.
* **Unique and Unexpected:** A refreshing twist on a classic salad that’s sure to impress.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe is easily customizable, so feel free to adjust the quantities to your liking.

**For the Salad:**

* **1 pound Brussels Sprouts:** Look for fresh, firm Brussels sprouts. Smaller ones tend to be sweeter.
* **1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese:** Freshly grated is always best for flavor.
* **1/2 cup Croutons:** Use store-bought or homemade croutons. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free croutons or toasted nuts.
* **Optional Toppings:** Cooked bacon bits, toasted pine nuts, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

**For the Caesar Dressing:**

* **1/2 cup Mayonnaise:** Use your favorite brand of mayonnaise. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt mixed with a little mayonnaise.
* **2 tablespoons Lemon Juice:** Freshly squeezed is preferred.
* **2 cloves Garlic:** Minced.
* **2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Cheese:** Again, freshly grated is best.
* **1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard:** Adds a tangy kick.
* **1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce:** Provides a savory umami flavor.
* **1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper:** Freshly ground.
* **1/4 cup Olive Oil:** Extra virgin olive oil adds a richer flavor.
* **Salt to taste:**
* **Optional: 1-2 Anchovy Fillets (finely minced):** Adds authentic Caesar flavor. If you’re not a fan of anchovies, you can omit them or use a dash of fish sauce.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get started!

**Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts**

The key to a great Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is thinly shaving the Brussels sprouts. There are a few ways to do this:

* **Using a Mandoline:** This is the quickest and easiest method. Be extremely careful when using a mandoline and always use the hand guard. Set the mandoline to a thin setting and carefully shave the Brussels sprouts, holding them by the stem end.
* **Using a Food Processor:** A food processor with a slicing blade is another quick option. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and feed them through the feed tube.
* **Using a Sharp Knife:** If you don’t have a mandoline or food processor, you can use a sharp knife. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them as thinly as possible.

Place the shaved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl.

**Step 2: Make the Caesar Dressing**

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and optional anchovy fillets (if using). Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified and creamy.

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt to taste. If you prefer a thinner dressing, you can add a tablespoon or two of water.

**Step 3: Assemble the Salad**

Pour the Caesar dressing over the shaved Brussels sprouts in the bowl. Toss well to coat the Brussels sprouts evenly with the dressing.

Add the grated Parmesan cheese and croutons to the salad. Toss gently to combine.

**Step 4: Serve**

Serve the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad immediately. If you’re making it ahead of time, wait to add the croutons until just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

**Optional:** Top with cooked bacon bits, toasted pine nuts, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

## Tips for the Best Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad

* **Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts:** Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm, green, and tightly closed. Avoid Brussels sprouts that are yellowing or have loose leaves.
* **Shave the Brussels Sprouts Thinly:** The thinner the Brussels sprouts, the more tender and palatable they will be. A mandoline or food processor is highly recommended for this task.
* **Don’t Overdress the Salad:** Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed. You want the Brussels sprouts to be lightly coated, not swimming in dressing.
* **Add the Croutons Just Before Serving:** This will prevent them from getting soggy.
* **Customize Your Toppings:** Feel free to add your favorite toppings to the salad. Cooked bacon bits, toasted pine nuts, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu all make great additions.
* **Make it Ahead (Partially):** You can shave the Brussels sprouts and make the dressing ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the salad. This is a great time-saver if you’re preparing the salad for a party or potluck.
* **Adjust the Dressing to Your Taste:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with the dressing. If you like a tangier dressing, add more lemon juice. If you like a sweeter dressing, add a touch of honey or maple syrup. If you like a spicier dressing, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
* **Massage the Brussels Sprouts (Optional):** After shaving the Brussels sprouts, you can massage them with the dressing for a few minutes. This helps to break down the fibers and make them more tender. However, this is not necessary, especially if the Brussels sprouts are shaved very thinly.

## Variations and Additions

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is a fantastic base for all sorts of variations and additions. Here are a few ideas:

* **Add Protein:** Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas are all great additions.
* **Add Vegetables:** Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions add color and flavor.
* **Add Fruit:** Dried cranberries, raisins, or apple slices add sweetness and texture.
* **Add Nuts and Seeds:** Toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or pumpkin seeds add crunch and healthy fats.
* **Make it Vegan:** Use vegan mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese alternatives. Omit the anchovies or use a vegan Worcestershire sauce substitute.
* **Spicy Caesar:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
* **Smoked Paprika Caesar:** Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the dressing for a smoky flavor.
* **Lemon-Herb Caesar:** Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to the dressing.

## Serving Suggestions

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

* **Side Dish:** Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
* **Light Lunch:** Enjoy it as a light lunch on its own or with a side of soup.
* **Potluck Dish:** It’s a great dish to bring to potlucks or parties.
* **Appetizer:** Serve it as an appetizer at your next dinner party.
* **Main Course:** Add protein and vegetables to make it a complete meal.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days, as the Brussels sprouts may start to wilt and the croutons may become soggy. If possible, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Calories: 250-350 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
*Fat: 15-25g
*Protein: 5-10g
*Carbohydrates: 10-20g
*Fiber: 5-8g

**Note:** Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

## Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Recipe

**Yields:** 4-6 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 0 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shaved
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 cup croutons

**Caesar Dressing:**

* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* Salt to taste
* Optional: 1-2 anchovy fillets, finely minced

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:** Shave the Brussels sprouts using a mandoline, food processor, or sharp knife. Place them in a large bowl.
2. **Make the Caesar Dressing:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and optional anchovy fillets (if using). Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt to taste.
3. **Assemble the Salad:** Pour the Caesar dressing over the shaved Brussels sprouts in the bowl. Toss well to coat the Brussels sprouts evenly with the dressing.
4. **Add the Parmesan and croutons:** Add the grated Parmesan cheese and croutons to the salad. Toss gently to combine.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately. Top with optional toppings like bacon bits, toasted pine nuts, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Enjoy this delicious and healthy twist on a classic Caesar salad! This recipe will quickly become a favorite. It is easy to prepare and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Consider adding protein or other vegetables to create a more complete meal. The best part is that the shaved brussels sprouts introduce an exciting crunch, transforming a traditional salad into something extraordinary. Whether you’re searching for a light lunch, a unique side dish, or a new way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, this salad is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and give it a try. You will not be disappointed.

Remember to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking. Cooking should be a fun and creative experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and textures to make this salad your own. Perhaps you would like a hint of sweetness? Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the dressing. Or maybe you prefer a bit of spice? Include a pinch of red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless! So, go ahead and get cooking. Bon appétit!