5-Star Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe

Name: Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: April 30, 2025

by Vanessa

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners hassle-free.
The flavor profile is a symphony of freshness and zest, designed to awaken your taste buds.
Its vibrant colors make it a visual feast that impresses guests at any gathering.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve alongside any main dish or alone as a light meal.

Ingredients for Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad

For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin recipe.

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

Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Aim for bright green, firm sprouts for the best crunch and flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and color; choose ripe ones for maximum flavor.
Cucumber: A crisp cucumber brings refreshing crunch; peel it if you prefer less bitterness.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds tanginess; soak in cold water for milder flavor if desired.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan offers savory depth; use fresh for an unbeatable taste.
Olive Oil: This healthy fat enhances flavors and helps dress the salad; opt for extra virgin for best results.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens everything up; avoid bottled juice for optimal taste.
Dijon Mustard: A small amount adds depth and complexity to the dressing; choose whole grain for added texture.

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

How to Make Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cool water. Trim off any brown edges and slice them thinly—imagine slicing them like they owe you money! Set aside.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

Next, grab your trusty knife (or chef’s sword if you’re feeling dramatic) and chop the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and slice the red onion thinly. You want all these veggies to mix well together in harmony.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. The secret here is to taste as you go—like a chef on TV who pretends they aren’t just eating their own concoctions!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl (the bigger the better), combine your chopped Brussels sprouts with all the veggies you’ve prepped. Pour over your glorious dressing and toss everything together until every leaf gets love from that zesty goodness.

Step 5: Add Parmesan

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your salad masterpiece. Give it one last gentle toss—you want it to look inviting but not like it’s been through a blender.

Step 6: Serve with Style

Transfer your beautiful salad onto plates or simply serve it straight from the bowl for casual dining. Drizzle with additional olive oil or lemon juice if desired, then watch as everyone dives in!

Enjoy this Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad as an exciting side at your next family barbecue or as a refreshing lunch option during hot summer days!

You Must Know

This Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
It’s not only healthy but also quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a potluck.
Your friends will be asking for the recipe, trust me!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To get the most flavor from your Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad, start by finely chopping the Brussels sprouts. While you prepare the dressing, allow the chopped sprouts to marinate for a few minutes. This helps develop their flavor and tenderness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite ingredients. Try adding roasted nuts for crunch, swapping in different cheeses, or tossing in some dried cranberries for a sweet twist. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you’d like to enjoy it warm, simply reheat gently on the stovetop until warmed through without losing its fresh flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always chop Brussels sprouts uniformly for even marination and texture.
If using cheese, opt for a sharp variety to enhance flavors.
Don’t skip letting the salad sit—this step truly brings everything together!

Sometimes I whip up this salad at family gatherings, and every time I hear someone say it’s the best salad they’ve ever tasted. That just warms my heart!

FAQs :

How do I prepare the Brussels sprouts for my Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad?

To prepare the Brussels sprouts, start by washing them thoroughly under cold water. Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice each sprout thinly using a sharp knife or a food processor. This allows for a finer texture and enhances the salad’s overall flavor. You can also blanch them briefly in boiling water to soften their taste, but be careful not to overcook them. After slicing, toss them in a bowl with your favorite dressing and other ingredients.

What dressing works best for an Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad?

A zesty lemon vinaigrette is perfect for an Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad. Combine fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper for a vibrant dressing. This mix complements the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts while adding freshness. If you prefer a creamier dressing, try mixing tahini with lemon juice and garlic for a rich yet healthy alternative. Whichever dressing you choose, make sure to toss it well with the salad to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Can I add protein to my Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad?

Yes, you can easily add protein to enhance your Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad! Grilled chicken or turkey slices work wonderfully without overpowering the dish. For a vegetarian option, consider chickpeas or grilled tofu as excellent sources of protein. Additionally, roasted nuts like almonds or walnuts can provide both crunch and nutrition. Ensure that any added proteins complement the other flavors in your salad while maintaining an appealing texture.

How can I store leftovers of my Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad?

To store leftovers of your Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for about 2-3 days if stored properly. However, keep in mind that the texture may change over time due to moisture from the dressing. To maintain crispness, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it with the salad just before serving again. This keeps your salad fresh and enjoyable!

Conclusion for Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad :

In conclusion, preparing an Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad is simple and rewarding. By selecting fresh ingredients like Brussels sprouts and flavorful dressings, you create a delightful dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Adding proteins or nuts can elevate this salad further while allowing customization based on personal preferences. Remember to store any leftovers properly to preserve their freshness. Enjoy this vibrant salad as a side or main dish at your next meal! For more inspiration, check out this Blood Orange Salad recipe.

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