Roasted Brussels Sprouts ‘n Apple Salad with Balsamic Drizzle

Roasted Brussels Sprouts ‘n Apple Salad with Balsamic Drizzle

This recipe is dedicated to my mom, who was a truly fantastic cook (and an avid lover of Brussels sprouts!). But alas, try as I might, I never appreciated these amazing sprouts until I was all grown up. If you are a Brussels sprouts naysayer, I am hoping this simple to make salad will awaken your taste buds and turn you into a convert.
Servings: 4
Author: Linda Shapiro, © Meal Planning Maven

Ingredients

Salad

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts washed, trimmed and halved lengthwise
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil or use an oil mister like the “Misto”
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups lettuce leaves butter and red leaf lettuces would look very pretty!
  • 1 red apple cored and cut into thin slices
  • 2 tablespoons tart dried cherries I like Eden’s apple juice-sweetened
  • 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbled (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves for garnish about 4 sprigs

Instructions

  • Prepare Balsamic Vinaigrette. (either before or while Brussels sprouts are roasting)
  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place prepared Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet; toss with olive oil, salt and pepper.
  • Roast for about 15 minutes, turning about every 5 minutes to prevent sticking and burning. Brussels sprouts are roasted when softened and lightly caramelized all over. Be careful not to over-roast. Set aside.
  • Arrange lettuce leaves, warm Brussels sprouts, (including the separated crunchy leaves) apple slices, dried cherries and goat cheese (if using) on a serving plate.
  • Garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Drizzle with Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Notes

Make Ahead and Storage Tips: vinaigrette may be made up to 3 days ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator. Whisk prior to using. Salad is best enjoyed the same day.

 

10 Responses

  1. I'm like you and grew up turning my nose up at Brussels Sprouts. My mum always made me have three (which I smothered in HP sauce or gravy). So as a habit, I'd still put three on my plate and eventually after experimenting with different cooking methods and flavor combos, discovered that I actually like them...or maybe it's just that my tastebuds finally matured. Tee hee. Either way, I LOVE the sound of your Brussels Sprouts n Apple Salad and never would have thought to put those flavors together but it sounds delicious. Thanks for giving me another way to enjoy sprouts. :)
  2. No wonder you are such a good cook! You must get it from your mom. This is a gorgeous salad, Linda!
  3. Fantastic combo of Brussels sprouts and apples here. I know the plate tastes as good as the photo looks!! Love this one, thanks so much for sharing!
  4. What a gorgeous salad, Linda!
  5. LOVE the addition of goat cheese and the balsamic! How fab! I love Brussels sprouts, and this would be great after all the holiday indulgence ;)
  6. Linda, what a beautiful looking salad!!!
  7. You've come up with a heavenly combo that is right up my healthful alley. Any guest would love to dig into this delish dish. As I would!
    • Linda Shapiro (Meal Planning Maven)
      This salad is as much fun to make as it is to eat...I know you would love it Kc!
  8. I didn't like Brussels Sprouts until I was a grown up either but now I love them! Your salad looks amazing, Linda. The balsamic dressing would be so delicious with it. This is such a lovely seasonal dish, what a nice way to remember your mom :-) Thank you for sharing this recipe with us at the Hearth and Soul Hop.
    • Linda Shapiro (Meal Planning Maven)
      I'm with you April...in fact I used to hide mine in a napkin and drop it on the floor hoping my mother wouldn't notice! Thank you for your kind comments as well as all your support. Happy Holidays!