Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that can brighten any meal, let me introduce you to my favorite Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad. This delightful salad is not only packed with flavor but also loaded with wholesome ingredients that make it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends at gatherings. The crunchy texture of the brussels sprouts paired with the zesty dressing creates a symphony of tastes that you simply can’t resist!

This salad is incredibly versatile and can serve as a hearty lunch or a fresh dinner option. Plus, it’s gluten-free and nut-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs. So, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need something quick yet satisfying, this Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad will quickly become your go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: You can whip this salad up in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves this colorful mix of flavors and textures—kids included!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The flavors deepen over time, so feel free to prepare it a day ahead and enjoy the next day.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber from brussels sprouts and protein from chickpeas, it’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You’ll find all these components easy to work with, ensuring your salad turns out perfectly every time.

For the Italian Dressing:

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons apple vinegar
• 1-2 teaspoons sugar or honey (to taste)
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Salad:

• 1 pound brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and outer leaves removed
• 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 4-6 oz thinly sliced Genoa turkey slices, cut in half or julienned
• 1 ½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup pitted sliced kalamata olives or sliced black olives
• ¼ cup sliced pepperoncinis
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup cubed provolone cheese
• ¼ cup shaved or shredded parmesan

Variations

This Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use grilled chicken or tofu instead of turkey slices for a different protein boost.
• Add more greens: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
• Change up the cheese: Try feta or mozzarella for a twist on flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your salad.

How to Make Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple vinegar, sugar (or honey), minced garlic, dijon mustard, italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This dressing brings bright flavors to the salad while marinating the brussels sprouts nicely!

Step 2: Shred the Brussels Sprouts

Next, shred the brussels sprouts using a food processor with the slicing attachment until they are thinly sliced. If you don’t have a food processor handy, no worries! A sharp knife works just as well. This step is crucial because thinly sliced brussels sprouts absorb all those tasty dressing flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Marinate

Add the shredded brussels sprouts to a large bowl and pour your homemade dressing all over them. Use tongs to coat everything evenly. Let them sit for about 30 minutes; this marinating time will soften their crunch and enhance their flavor. While waiting, chop up your other ingredients.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time to finish assembling your salad! Add in the chickpeas, turkey slices, tomatoes, olives, pepperoncinis, red onion, provolone cheese cubes, and shaved parmesan into the bowl. Toss everything gently until well combined. Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of black pepper if desired!

This Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad serves 4 to 6 people—perfect for sharing! Enjoy every bite of its fresh goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad

Creating a delicious Italian chopped Brussels sprouts salad is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some expert tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm, vibrant Brussels sprouts with no blemishes for the best taste and texture. Freshness makes a difference in both flavor and crunchiness.
• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the shredded Brussels sprouts sit in the dressing for at least 30 minutes allows them to absorb all those wonderful flavors. This step transforms your salad into a savory delight.
• Customize Your Proteins: Feel free to swap out turkey slices for other proteins like grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. This adds variety and caters to different dietary preferences.
• Add Crunch with Nuts or Seeds: Tossing in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch and extra nutrition. They complement the soft textures of the salad beautifully.
• Balance the Flavors: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, adjust the sugar or honey to suit your taste. Balancing sweet, sour, and savory elements ensures each bite is satisfying.

How to Serve Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad

Serving your Italian chopped Brussels sprouts salad is an opportunity to showcase its vibrant colors and flavors. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, here are some ideas to make your presentation shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving gives the salad a refreshing citrus aroma and brightens up the dish.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes bring a smoky flavor that complements the freshness of the salad beautifully.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A warm quinoa pilaf with herbs provides a hearty side that pairs well with the crunchiness of the salad while adding more protein to your meal.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a favorite! Its buttery garlic flavor contrasts nicely with the tangy dressing in your salad, making it an irresistible combo.
• Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese salad made from fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a light yet flavorful side that harmonizes with your main dish’s Italian essence.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal that not only nourishes but also brings joy to your dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep the salad refrigerated; it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the dressing separately to keep the brussels sprouts crisp.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions of this salad if needed.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before consuming. Note that some ingredients may lose their texture after freezing.

Reheating

• This salad is intended to be served cold, so no reheating is necessary.
• If you prefer a warm salad, consider lightly sautéing the mixture on low heat just until warmed through, but avoid cooking it completely to maintain freshness.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful dish? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other greens instead of Brussels sprouts in an Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of Brussels sprouts, feel free to substitute them with kale or finely chopped romaine lettuce. Just adjust the dressing quantity as needed since different greens have varying moisture levels.

How long does the Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner option throughout the week!

Can I make this Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the turkey slices and consider adding extra chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein to enhance its heartiness while keeping it flavorful.

What type of cheese works best for Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad?

While provolone and parmesan are excellent choices, you can also experiment with mozzarella or feta for a different flavor profile. Choose what pleases your palate!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad! It’s a vibrant dish that combines wholesome ingredients into a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch or dinner, it’s bound to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every crunchy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how it turned out!