Experience a refreshing twist on a timeless classic with this incredible Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad. Ditching the traditional lettuce, this vibrant salad features perfectly shaved Brussels sprouts tossed in a rich, homemade Caesar dressing, elevated with crispy bacon. It’s a delightful blend of earthy flavors, creamy textures, and savory crunch that will redefine your salad expectations.
A Unique Caesar Salad Recipe: The Brussels Sprouts Revelation
Forget everything you thought you knew about Caesar salad. Our Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad takes the iconic flavors you adore – the tangy, garlicky dressing, the savory crunch of croutons, and the irresistible crisp of bacon – and pairs them with the distinct, subtly earthy notes of fresh Brussels sprouts. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a vibrant, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a flavorful main course, or an impressive side for your next gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. It offers a nutrient-rich alternative to conventional salads, proving that healthy eating can be both easy and extraordinarily delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Traditionally, Caesar salad dressing includes anchovies, which contribute a subtle, umami depth without a distinctly “fishy” taste. Many people are unaware of their presence. For this homemade Brussels Sprouts Caesar dressing, I’ve chosen to omit anchovy paste for those who prefer to avoid it. However, if you’re a purist and desire that classic, faint hint of anchovy, feel free to whisk in about ½ to 1 teaspoon of anchovy paste into the dressing mixture. It adds a wonderful layer of complexity.
You can certainly prepare components of this salad in advance, but it’s generally best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving. You can cook and dice the bacon, prepare the homemade Caesar dressing, and even shave your Brussels sprouts a day or two ahead. Store the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge, and keep the shaved Brussels sprouts separate. To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, only toss the Brussels sprouts with the dressing right before you plan to eat. If you’re meal prepping, store the salad greens and dressing in separate airtight containers, combining them only when ready to enjoy.
While many grocery stores now offer pre-shaved Brussels sprouts for convenience, they’re not always available. Don’t worry, it’s incredibly easy to prepare them yourself! Simply purchase whole Brussels sprouts. On a cutting board, trim off the very bottom of each sprout and remove any loose or discolored outer leaves. Then, slice each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise. Lay the halves flat-side down and thinly slice them crosswise into delicate ribbons. This method ensures a perfect texture for your salad.
The base recipe for this homemade Caesar dressing doesn’t explicitly call for Parmesan cheese within the dressing itself, focusing on a creamy, tangy profile. However, Parmesan is an iconic component of any Caesar salad. I highly recommend grating fresh Parmesan cheese directly into the dressing for an extra layer of savory flavor, or sprinkling shaved Parmesan generously over the finished salad just before serving. It adds a delicious salty bite and a beautiful visual appeal that truly completes the dish.
If you’re not a fan of traditional croutons, or simply looking for an alternative crunch, there are several delicious options. One excellent substitute is toasted breadcrumbs. Simply melt some butter in a skillet, add breadcrumbs, and season with salt and pepper. Toast them over medium heat until golden and crispy. These add a delightful texture to every bite. Other alternatives include toasted nuts (like pecans or walnuts), roasted chickpeas for a protein boost, or even crunchy seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds. You can also simply omit them if you prefer a softer salad.
Homemade dressings can sometimes vary in consistency depending on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of mayonnaise or olive oil. If you find your Caesar dressing to be too thick for your liking, it’s an easy fix. Gradually add a small amount of water or milk, starting with just 1 tablespoon at a time, and whisk thoroughly until you achieve your desired creamy consistency. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning with a little extra salt and pepper if needed after thinning.
Absolutely! Adding a protein component transforms this Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad from a side dish into a complete and hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. Consider topping it with thinly sliced grilled chicken breast, shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option, or leftover roasted chicken. Flaked salmon is another fantastic addition, offering healthy fats and a delicate flavor. For a vegetarian option, roasted chickpeas or pan-seared halloumi cheese would be equally delicious and satisfying.
The fresh, homemade Caesar dressing is one of the stars of this recipe, and luckily, it keeps quite well. When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will maintain its freshness and delicious flavor for approximately 1 to 2 weeks. This makes it perfect for preparing a batch ahead of time, ensuring you always have flavorful dressing on hand for quick salads or other dishes throughout the week.
To ensure the best quality and texture, it’s always recommended to dress the salad right before serving. However, if you do have leftovers of the dressed salad, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be aware that the Brussels sprouts, like any leafy green, will soften the longer they sit with the dressing. While still safe to eat, the salad will be best consumed within 1 to 2 days for optimal texture. If you anticipate leftovers, consider serving the dressing on the side for individual portions.
Ingredients Needed: Crafting Your Delicious Salad
Creating an exceptional Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for each component:
- Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add an irresistible salty, smoky flavor and textural contrast that complements the Brussels sprouts beautifully. While you can opt for pre-cooked, chopped bacon pieces for convenience, cooking fresh bacon ensures maximum crispness and flavor. I prefer to bake a whole pack until extra crispy, using some for the salad and saving the rest for other meals like BLTs. For a more traditional, lighter Caesar, you can certainly omit the bacon entirely.
- Mayonnaise: The base of our creamy dressing. Use your favorite high-quality mayonnaise here, as its flavor will shine through. Brands like Hellmann’s or Duke’s are excellent choices. Duke’s offers a slightly tangier profile, which some prefer, while Hellmann’s provides a classic, balanced creaminess. Choose what best suits your palate for the perfect dressing consistency and taste.
- Dijon Mustard: This ingredient is crucial for adding a sharp, sophisticated tang and emulsifying the dressing. Dijon mustard has a distinct, pungent flavor with a hint of spice that is unique. I strongly advise against substituting it with regular yellow mustard, as its flavor profile is much more vinegary and less complex, which would significantly alter the taste of the dressing.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Bright, zesty, and essential for cutting through the richness of the dressing. Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best results. Bottled lemon juice often contains preservatives and has a more acidic, less vibrant flavor that can throw off the delicate balance of the dressing. If fresh lemons aren’t available, it’s better to omit it than to use bottled, or consider a splash of white wine vinegar as a last resort, though it won’t be quite the same.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon for adding a complex layer of savory, umami flavor. Worcestershire sauce contributes a depth that is hard to replicate, with hints of tamarind, anchovy (if you prefer not to add extra anchovy paste), and spices. It enhances the overall richness of the dressing.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for a truly authentic and vibrant Caesar dressing. When making a homemade dressing from scratch, the freshness of your ingredients makes all the difference, and garlic is no exception. Minced fresh garlic cloves provide a pungent, aromatic kick that jarred garlic simply cannot match. While jarred garlic is convenient, it often has a milder, sometimes stale flavor that won’t give you the bright, spicy kick needed here. Taking a few extra seconds to mince fresh garlic is well worth the effort for the superior flavor it imparts.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: This forms the smooth, luxurious body of the dressing. Use a good quality extra-virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and healthy fats. It helps to emulsify the dressing and provides a silky texture that coats the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
- Kosher Salt & Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: The fundamental seasonings that elevate all the other flavors. Kosher salt has a coarser texture and clean taste, ideal for seasoning. Freshly cracked black pepper provides a more potent and aromatic spice than pre-ground pepper, adding a subtle warmth and a visually appealing speckle to the dressing and salad. Always season to taste.
- Shaved Brussels Sprouts: The star of the show! Pre-shaved Brussels sprouts found in bags at the grocery store are a fantastic time-saver. If you can’t find them, buying whole Brussels sprouts and thinly slicing them yourself is easy and ensures maximum freshness. For a delightful variation, try roasting the shaved Brussels sprouts briefly before tossing them in the dressing for a warm, slightly caramelized Caesar salad that adds another dimension of flavor and tenderness.
- Croutons: For serving, croutons provide that quintessential Caesar crunch. Store-bought croutons are convenient, but making your own homemade croutons from day-old bread is incredibly rewarding and often more flavorful. Simply cube some bread, toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then bake or pan-fry until golden brown and crispy.
How to Make Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
Crafting this incredible Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps for a fresh and flavorful meal:
Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Bacon
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. For regular-cut bacon, bake for 14 to 18 minutes, or 18 to 20 minutes for thicker cuts, until it reaches your desired level of crispness. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary. Once cooked, transfer the crispy bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Allow it to cool completely before dicing it into small, crunchy pieces. Set the diced bacon aside until you’re ready to assemble the salad.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Homemade Caesar Dressing
In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic cloves, extra-virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Using a whisk, vigorously mix these ingredients together until the dressing is perfectly smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary – you might want a touch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference. This homemade dressing is the heart of your salad, so ensure it’s perfectly balanced.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve Your Salad
Take your shaved Brussels sprouts and place them in a large mixing bowl. Pour a generous amount of your freshly made Caesar dressing over the sprouts. Using tongs or your clean hands, toss the Brussels sprouts thoroughly until they are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. You control how much dressing you want – add more for a richer salad, or less for a lighter touch. Transfer the dressed salad onto a large serving platter or individual plates. Garnish generously with the crispy diced bacon and crunchy croutons. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese would be a wonderful addition. Serve immediately and enjoy the unique flavors and textures of this outstanding Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad!
Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations
This Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. As a hearty main dish, pair it with grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or even a perfectly cooked steak for a balanced and satisfying meal. Its robust flavors also make it an excellent side dish for roasted meats, pasta dishes, or a casual weeknight dinner. Don’t be afraid to get creative with additions:
- Add More Veggies: Cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, or even roasted bell peppers can add extra color and flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds can provide another layer of texture and healthy fats.
- Cheesy Delights: Beyond Parmesan, try crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy counterpoint.
- Protein Power-Ups: As mentioned in our FAQs, cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are fantastic additions.
- Warm Salad: Briefly roast the shaved Brussels sprouts until tender-crisp before tossing with the dressing for a unique warm salad experience, especially appealing in cooler months.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing or sprinkled over the top can add a subtle kick.
Experiment with these variations to make this salad truly your own!
Craving More Delicious Recipes?
If you loved this Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad, you’ll surely enjoy exploring more of our fresh and flavorful recipes. Here are some hand-picked favorites to inspire your next meal:
- Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- Caesar Basil Pasta Salad
- Cornbread Salad
- Big Mac Salad
- Broccoli Salad
- Strawberry Fields Salad
- Kale Salad
- Carrot Salad
- Ramen Noodle Salad
- Frito Taco Salad
- Autumn Salad
- Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Holiday Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Caesar Salad Dressing (No Anchovies)
Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
This Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad has all the flavors you love but with a refreshing twist – no lettuce! Shaved Brussels sprouts with a delicious homemade Caesar dressing (and bacon!)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon (see notes below)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about ½ lemon)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 (9 ounce) bags shaved Brussels sprouts
- croutons for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lay 4 slices bacon in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven for 14 to 18 minutes for regular-cut bacon, and 18 to 20 minutes for thick-cut bacon, until crispy.
- Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, dice bacon and set aside.
- Combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1 Tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper in a bowl and whisk together until smooth and creamy.
- Add 2 (9 ounce) bags shaved Brussels sprouts to a large bowl. Pour in as much dressing as you like and toss evenly to coat.
- Place the salad on a large serving platter or plate. Top with cooked diced bacon and croutons. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Please refer to my FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- Note: baking time can vary depending on your oven and the rack it is cooked on so please keep an eye on it and remove once the bacon has been cooked to your level of doneness. You can also fry the bacon on the stove top if you prefer.
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Calories: 247kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 24g | Sodium: 485mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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We hope you thoroughly enjoy this innovative Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad! It’s a testament to how simple ingredient swaps can transform a classic into something new, exciting, and incredibly flavorful. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is sure to impress with its rich dressing, crispy bacon, and the delightful texture of shaved Brussels sprouts. Give it a try and let us know what you think!