Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprout Salad

Name: Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprout Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: September 1, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprout Salad is incredibly easy to prepare and comes together in just minutes
The balance of flavors creates an unforgettable taste experience that will impress even the pickiest eaters
Its stunning colors make it an eye-catching addition to any table setting
Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as a side dish or a main course salad!

I once made this salad for a holiday dinner, and let me tell you, my cousin actually asked for seconds—something I had never seen happen with vegetables before.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts; trim the ends and remove any discolored outer leaves for best results.
Dried Cranberries: Use sweetened cranberries for a burst of flavor; they add a lovely chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the sprouts.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and richness; be sure to chop them roughly to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a zesty kick; soak them in cold water briefly if you prefer milder onion flavor.
Olive Oil: Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the dressing’s taste; it provides depth alongside other flavors.
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar balances sweetness; select aged vinegar for richer flavor notes.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Choose either sweetener according to preference; both lend their sweetness harmoniously into the dressing.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential; adjust according to personal taste preferences—never underestimate their power!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Brussels Sprouts: Begin by washing the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water. Trim off the stems and slice them in half lengthwise so they cook evenly while retaining their delightful crunch.

Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine halved Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and thinly sliced red onion. Mix them well to ensure all ingredients mingle happily together.

Whisk Up Your Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup along with salt and pepper until emulsified. refreshing Winter Slaw With Tahini Dressing This dressing will bring all flavors together beautifully.

Dress Your Salad: Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and toss gently until everything is coated evenly. The aroma should be enticing already!

Let It Rest (If You Can): Allowing your salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes lets flavors meld together beautifully—though I won’t judge if you’re too eager to dig right in!

Enjoy every bite of your scrumptious Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprout Salad! With each mouthful filled with textures and flavors dancing around your palate, you’re sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you! unique Gochujang Beet Salad.

You Must Know

This vibrant Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprout Salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with flavor and nutrients
The balance of sweetness from cranberries and crunch from pecans makes this salad a crowd-pleaser at any gathering
Plus, it’s wonderfully versatile for meal prep!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the Brussels sprouts to enhance their natural sweetness, then mix in the remaining ingredients while they cool for a delightful contrast in textures.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap pecans with walnuts or add feta cheese to introduce creaminess. Experimenting with different dressings can also elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet if desired, but serve cold for the best taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For maximum flavor, let the salad sit in the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving
This allows all ingredients to meld beautifully together
Use fresh Brussels sprouts instead of pre-cut ones for better texture and taste
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure perfection!

It was Thanksgiving last year when my aunt raved about this Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprout Salad. I thought I had found my culinary soulmate that day! For more inspiration, check out this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe.

FAQ

What can I substitute for Brussels sprouts?

You can use shredded cabbage or kale as a tasty alternative in this salad.

How do I make this salad gluten-free?

All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy it without worry.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep it a day ahead; just add dressing right before serving for freshness.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card