The vibrant colors of fall inspire a taste sensation that’s as nourishing as it is beautiful. This Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad with Sharp Cheddar + Bacon is not just another side dish; it’s a celebration on a plate, perfect for Thanksgiving or any gathering that calls for something special. With its crunchy textures, sweet-tart apple bites, and the delightful richness from sharp cheddar and crispy bacon, this is one salad that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up—ideal for busy home chefs like us who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to bring a burst of freshness to your holiday table? Dive in, and let’s get chopping!

Why Try This Fall Salad Recipe?

Vibrant flavors come together in this delightful salad, creating a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Quick and easy to prepare, it allows busy home chefs to serve up something impressive without hours of fuss. Nutrient-dense ingredients like Brussels sprouts and kale bring health benefits while satisfying cravings. Crowd-pleaser status is guaranteed, especially with the savory addition of bacon and sharp cheddar. Pair it with other fall favorites like your go-to Air Fryer Apple Fritters or Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake for a complete festive feast!

Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Brussels Sprouts – Adds crunch and earthiness; choose larger ones for easier shredding and smaller ones for roasting.
• Kale – Provides a nutrient-rich base; any variety works, but Tuscan kale is preferred for its tenderness.
• Granny Smith Apple – Offers tartness and crunch; other varieties like Honey Crisp also make a great addition.
• Toasted Pecans – Adds nuttiness and texture; must be toasted for enhanced flavor.
• Dried Cranberries – For a touch of sweetness and chewy texture; freshness is key, but dried cherries can substitute.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides a rich, tangy flavor; extra sharp or aged varieties make this Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad irresistible.
• Bacon – Infuses savory richness; opt for regular sliced rather than thick-cut for best texture after crumbling.

For the Dressing
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and helps massage the greens for a tender texture; divided use is perfect for both dressing and greens.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, helping to enhance the overall flavors of the salad.
• Shallot – Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the dressing; be sure to mince for a fine texture.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance the rich ingredients in the salad.
• Dijon Mustard – Contributes a slight tanginess, elevating the overall flavor of the dressing.
• Honey – Adds a hint of sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
• Reserved Bacon Fat – Enriches the dressing; can be replaced with a neutral oil for a vegetarian option.

This Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad is sure to delight your guests and elevate any fall gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad

Step 1: Prepare Brussels Sprouts
Begin by cleaning the Brussels sprouts under running water, removing any brown outer leaves. Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, thinly slice each sprout into fine shavings. As you finish, transfer the shaved Brussels sprouts to a large mixing bowl, creating a crunchy base for the Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad.

Step 2: Prep Kale
Next, take the kale and remove its tough stems, discarding them. Roll the kale leaves into a tight bundle and slice them into thin ribbons. Once you have your kale ribbons, add them to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts, enriching the salad with green goodness and vibrant color.

Step 3: Massage Greens
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the fresh greens in the bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Using clean hands, massage the kale and Brussels sprouts gently for about 1-2 minutes until they soften and reduce in volume. This step helps to enhance the flavors and tenderness of the greens, making your Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad even more inviting.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add in the remaining goodies! Fold in the diced Granny Smith apple, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the bowl, bringing together a delightful mix of flavors and textures in your salad.

Step 5: Make Vinaigrette
In a small mixing bowl, combine the minced shallot, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a dash of salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together, then slowly drizzle in the remaining olive oil and warmed bacon fat while continuing to whisk until the mixture is fully emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to create a balanced dressing for your Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad.

Step 6: Combine & Serve
Finally, pour the freshly made vinaigrette over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together vigorously until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture, and watch as your guests savor every bite of this festive Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad!

Make Ahead Options

These Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad preparations are perfect for busy cooks wanting to save time on meal prep! You can slice the Brussels sprouts and kale up to 24 hours in advance; just make sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days—just remember to bring it back to room temperature and whisk before serving. To keep the apples crisp, dice them right before tossing with the salad. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the dressing for a vibrant, delicious salad that tastes freshly made, saving you minutes in the kitchen while still impressing your guests!

Variations & Substitutions for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad

Feel free to customize this salad to bring your unique taste to the table—a dash of creativity can elevate your culinary experience!

Spinach Alternative: Swap finely chopped spinach for kale for a milder flavor. It’s a quick and easy twist that retains the nutrient density.
Different Apple Varieties: Use Fuji or Gala apples for a sweeter kick. Each apple brings its own charm and delightful new flavors to the salad.
Cheese Choices: Try crumbled feta or creamy goat cheese for a tangy touch that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
Nuts For Crunch: Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Toast them lightly for an extra crunch.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the salad for a burst of freshness. Just a handful can transform the flavor profile!
Heat It Up: For a spicy twist, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the vinaigrette. A little heat can beautifully balance the lusciousness of the cheese and bacon.
Vegan Version: For a plant-based salad, substitute bacon with crispy chickpeas and replace cheese with nutritional yeast. This keeps it flavorful without compromising the nutrition.
Make It Ahead: Prepare the dressing and let it marinate overnight for an even richer flavor. This small step can enhance your overall dish significantly.

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out our delicious Brown Sugar Apple Pie for a sweet finish to your meal!

Expert Tips for Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad

Optimal Shredding Technique: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly thin Brussels sprouts, ensuring even texture and tenderness in your salad.
Dressing Ahead: Prepare the vinaigrette up to 5 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before serving to enhance flavors.
Fresh Apples Only: Dice the apples just before serving to maintain their crispness and prevent browning, keeping your Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad fresh and vibrant.
Bacon Options: For mixed dietary preferences, serve bacon on the side and replace bacon fat in the dressing with neutral oil for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Ingredient Freshness: Always opt for fresh, crisp ingredients like dried cranberries and toasted pecans to elevate the taste and texture of your salad.

What to Serve with Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this autumn-inspired salad with delightful accompaniments that celebrate the season’s flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness provides a comforting contrast to the crunchy salad, creating a well-rounded plate.
Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken seasoned with herbs enhances the savory elements of the salad, making each bite harmonious.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots add vibrant color and a touch of natural sweetness that complements the apple’s tartness.
Quinoa Stuffed Peppers: Nutritious and packed with flavor, these peppers offer another layer of heartiness, ideal for a festive meal that impresses.
Cranberry Sauce: A traditional side that resonates with the salad’s cranberries, it adds a sweet-tart punch that balances the rich flavors of cheese and bacon.
Warm Apple Crisp: Serve this delightful dessert alongside for a sweet ending, echoing the apple notes in the salad while providing a cozy finishing touch.
Sparkling Cider: This refreshing drink complements the salad’s freshness and adds a fun, festive atmosphere to your gathering.
Maple Pecan Pie: Bringing a decadent sweetness, this classic dessert perfectly encapsulates fall flavors and leaves guests wanting more.

How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Avoid Oxidation: Keep the diced apple separate until serving to prevent browning; this will preserve the salad’s crunchy texture when stored.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad as the greens and fresh ingredients can lose their texture and flavor when thawed.

Reheating: If you’ve prepared the dressing in advance, you can warm it slightly before serving the salad to help the flavors meld—just don’t reheat the salad itself!

Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad Recipe FAQs

Which Brussels sprouts should I choose?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, go for larger ones for easier shredding and smaller ones for roasting. Look for bright green sprouts that are firm and heavy for their size, avoiding any with dark spots or yellowing leaves.

How should I store leftover Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain that crunchy texture, keep the diced apples separate until just before serving to prevent browning.

Can I freeze Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad?
Freezing this salad is not recommended. The delicate greens and crisp ingredients will lose their texture and flavor when thawed. I often suggest making only the portion you’ll enjoy fresh or preparing the dressing ahead of time and storing it in the fridge.

What should I do if my kale is tough?
Very! If you find your kale too tough, you can massage it for a longer time—give it about 3-5 minutes while adding a little more salt and olive oil. This process breaks down the fibers in the leaves, making them softer and easier to enjoy in your Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad.

Is this salad suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, but always check! This salad contains common allergens such as dairy (cheddar) and nuts (pecans). For those with dietary restrictions, consider omitting the cheese and using sunflower seeds instead of nuts. You can also offer bacon on the side for a vegetarian-friendly option.

How can I enhance the flavor of the dressing?
Certainly! To elevate the vinaigrette, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Just whisk them into the dressing ingredients before emulsifying, and you’ll have a delicious, personalized touch to complement your Brussels Sprout, Kale + Apple Salad!