If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant salad that’s bursting with flavor and texture, this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the crisp bite of finely chopped Brussels sprouts with a luscious, tangy dressing that perfectly balances creaminess, citrus brightness, and a hint of sweetness. The addition of Parmesan cheese, dried cranberries or cherries, and pumpkin seeds takes this slaw from simple to spectacular, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight side or the star of your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this slaw is straightforward thanks to a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each element plays a special role: Brussels sprouts provide that crisp, fresh base; the dressing brings a creamy, tangy punch; and the toppings add bursts of sweet, nutty, and savory complexity.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, sliced and roughly chopped: The heart of the dish, offering fresh crunch and a slightly nutty flavor.
- ½ cup small diced red onion: Adds a sharp, pungent kick that balances the richness.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy texture that binds the slaw together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Enhances the dressing’s smoothness and adds a rich, fruity note.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Offers refreshing acidity to brighten the dish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Adds a natural sweetness and citrus aroma.
- 1 tablespoon honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the tangy elements.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan: Provides a savory, salty tang with a wonderful umami boost.
- ½ cup dried cranberries or cherries (optional): Introduces bursts of chewy sweetness contrasting the crisp sprouts.
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds (optional): Adds crunch and a subtle nuttiness for textural contrast.
How to Make Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by slicing and roughly chopping the Brussels sprouts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures every forkful is perfectly textured—not too large to overpower and not too tiny to lose the delightful crunch. Placing them in a large mixing bowl gives you plenty of room to toss and blend everything later with ease.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, Dijon mustard, fresh lime and orange juices, honey, diced red onion, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is where all the magic happens: the creaminess from the mayo, the bright citrus notes, and that subtle honey sweetness create a harmonious flavor that will coat the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
Step 3: Dress the Slaw
Pour your freshly made dressing over the chopped Brussels sprouts. Toss everything thoroughly, making sure each piece is coated evenly. This step allows the flavors to meld wonderfully and helps the slaw soften just slightly while retaining its satisfying crunch.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Combine
Sprinkle in the finely grated Parmesan, dried cranberries or cherries if using, and pumpkin seeds for a delightful sneak of texture and flavor. Give the slaw one last gentle toss to distribute these treasures throughout the salad so every bite includes a hint of savory, sweet, and nutty notes.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer your creamy Brussels sprouts slaw to a serving bowl. This dish can be enjoyed immediately for a fresh, crisp bite or chilled in the refrigerator to serve later when the flavors have a chance to deepen. Either way, it’s a refreshing and colorful addition to any meal.
How to Serve Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and offer an extra flavor pop, you can top the slaw with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan, a few whole pumpkin seeds, or even some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro. These garnishes add visual appeal and fresh nuances that make this dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It’s fantastic alongside grilled chicken or fish, complements smoky barbecue fare superbly, and serves as a refreshing counterpoint to rich, creamy mains like mac and cheese or roasted meats.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the slaw in individual small glass jars or over a bed of mixed greens for a salad-inspired side. You can also scoop it onto toasted crostini for a light appetizer or even stuff it into pita pockets to create a crunchy, flavorful sandwich filling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully overnight, although the Brussels sprouts may soften slightly, so enjoy sooner for maximum crispness.
Freezing
This slaw is not ideal for freezing due to the raw texture of the Brussels sprouts and the mayonnaise-based dressing, which can separate once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or well-chilled from the fridge.
Reheating
Because this is a cold slaw, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Serve it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-shredded Brussels sprouts can save you time and work perfectly in this creamy slaw. Just be sure to check for freshness and crispness when purchasing.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can swap the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative and omit the Parmesan or replace it with a plant-based cheese. This keeps the creamy texture and tangy flavor while catering to a vegan diet.
What can I substitute for pumpkin seeds?
If you don’t have pumpkin seeds on hand, toasted sunflower seeds, chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts, or even crunchy roasted chickpeas work wonderfully as a crunchy topping.
How long does this slaw last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this slaw will stay fresh for about 3 days. It’s best eaten sooner rather than later to keep that perfect crisp texture of the Brussels sprouts.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
You can absolutely make the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Just give it a good whisk before tossing with the Brussels sprouts.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe is one of those delights that manages to feel both indulgent and light at the same time. Its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch make it a dish you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck or serving it as a fresh side at dinner, I promise it will be a hit. So grab those Brussels sprouts, whip up this slaw, and get ready to fall in love with a new favorite!
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Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw is a fresh and vibrant salad featuring thinly sliced Brussels sprouts tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, citrus juices, and honey. Enhanced with Parmesan cheese, sweet dried cranberries or cherries, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, this slaw makes a perfect side dish or light meal with a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and nutritious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.
Ingredients
Slaw
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, sliced and then roughly chopped
- ½ cup small diced red onion
Dressing
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings (optional)
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries or cherries
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Slice the Brussels sprouts thinly and then roughly chop to bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl for easy tossing.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or container, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, honey, diced red onion, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Dress the Slaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the Brussels sprouts in the large bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly with the creamy dressing, allowing flavors to meld.
- Add Toppings & Combine: Add the finely grated Parmesan cheese, dried cranberries or cherries (if using), and pumpkin seeds (if using) into the bowl. Toss gently again until toppings are distributed evenly throughout the slaw.
- Serve: Transfer the slaw to a serving bowl and serve immediately for best freshness and crunch. Alternatively, refrigerate until ready to serve for a chilled, refreshing salad.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pumpkin seeds lightly before adding.
- Dried cranberries can be substituted with dried cherries or raisins for different sweetness profiles.
- If you prefer a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and omit Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- The slaw can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated, but dress just before serving to keep the sprouts crisp.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a slight kick if desired.
