Brussels Sprout Slaw with Apples & Walnuts

Description: A refreshing and crunchy salad that will win over both lovers and haters of sprouts! This raw Brussels sprout slaw balances sweet apples, toasted walnuts, and a tangy Dijon vinaigrette for the perfect side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Raw Sprout Salad

If you think you don’t like Brussels sprouts, this recipe will completely change your mind. Because the sprouts are finely shredded, their flavor becomes incredibly mild—barely tasting like cabbage at all. It is a beautiful balance of sweet, salty, crunchy, and tangy, with just a touch of richness from the walnuts.

It makes an excellent, refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, chicken, fish, or even a rich pasta like Spaghetti alla Carbonara.

Ingredients

• The Salad Base:
  • 1/2 lb. Brussels sprouts
  • 1 crisp green apple
  • 2 green onions (white and pale green parts only), thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
• The Tangy Vinaigrette:
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (or walnut oil for extra depth)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Shred the Sprouts: Thoroughly wash the Brussels sprouts. Using a mandoline slicer or the shredding blade of a food processor, shred them finely.
2. Prep the Apple: Thinly slice the green apple, then cut each slice into thin matchsticks.
3. Toss the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sprouts, apple matchsticks, and thinly sliced green onions.
4. Whisk the Dressing: In a small separate bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, olive oil (or walnut oil), kosher salt, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until the dressing emulsifies.
5. Mix and Rest: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste, then gently fold in the toasted chopped walnuts.
6. The Secret Step: Allow the salad to rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes before serving. This lets the dressing soften the raw sprouts and allows all the delicious flavors to meld together.