Name: Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Avocado Recipe
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 slices center-cut bacon; 3 cups brussels sprouts; 4 oz avocado; For the vinaigrette:; 1 tsp dijon mustard; 4 tsp olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 tbsp red onion; ½ tsp kosher salt

This shredded raw brussels sprout salad with bacon and avocado recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The bitterness of the brussels sprouts, the creaminess of the avocado, and the crispy bacon creates a delightful symphony for the taste buds. It is a quick yet delicious meal that could be served at any time of the day.

Photos of Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Avocado Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are likely to be found in your pantry. However, make sure to source fresh and good quality brussels sprouts as they are the star of this dish. Also, opt for center-cut bacon which is leaner and has more meat than regular bacon. Lastly, pick a ripe avocado to get that rich and creamy texture.

Ingredients for Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Avocado

Center-cut bacon: A leaner cut with more meat than regular bacon, adding a satisfying crunch and savory taste to the salad.

Brussels sprouts: These miniature cabbages are shredded raw for a nice, crunchy texture and a slightly bitter flavor.

Avocado: Adds a creamy texture to the salad and provides healthy fats.

Dijon mustard: Gives the vinaigrette a tangy kick and a smooth consistency.

Olive oil: Creates a smooth base for the vinaigrette and adds a mild, fruity flavor.

Red wine vinegar: Adds a sharp tanginess to the vinaigrette, balancing out the oil.

Red onion: Adds a slightly sweet, sharp flavor to the salad.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.

One reader, Boris Caraballo says:

This shredded raw brussels sprout salad with bacon and avocado recipe is a game-changer! The combination of crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and tangy vinaigrette takes this salad to a whole new level. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Highly recommend trying it out!

Boris Caraballo

Techniques Required for Making This Brussels Sprout Salad

How to cook bacon: Cook the bacon in a large heavy nonstick skillet over medium heat for about 7 minutes until it becomes crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel to drain and set it aside.

How to make vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red onion, and kosher salt until well combined. This will create a flavorful vinaigrette for the salad.

How to prepare brussels sprouts: Trim the ends of the brussels sprouts and remove any damaged outer leaves. Shred the brussels sprouts using a sharp knife or a food processor, and place them in a bowl.

How to toss the salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the shredded brussels sprouts and toss them until they are well coated with the dressing.

How to assemble the salad: Top the dressed brussels sprouts with sliced avocado and the crispy bacon before serving.

How To Make Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Avocado

An easy, low-carb dish, this Brussels sprout salad is tossed with crispy bacon and avocado in a mustard vinaigrette. Ready in 15 minutes!

Preparation: 8 minutes

Cooking: 7 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3slicescenter-cut bacon,diced
3cupsbrussels sprouts,shredded
4ozavocado,(1 small), diced

For the Vinaigrette:

1tspDijon mustard
4tspolive oil
2tbspred wine vinegar,plus 1 tsp
2tbspred onion,chopped
½tspkosher salt

Instructions

Cook for about 7 minutes bacon in a large heavy nonstick skillet until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel to drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk the vinaigrette ingredients. Place Brussels in a bowl and toss, pour dressing over the salad.
Top with avocado and bacon and serve right away.

Nutrition

Calories: 416.76kcal
Fat: 35.07g
Saturated Fat: 8.32g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.79g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.01g
Carbohydrates: 18.33g
Fiber: 9.08g
Sugar: 4.16g
Protein: 11.29g
Cholesterol: 28.71mg
Sodium: 624.62mg
Calcium: 69.45mg
Potassium: 898.96mg
Iron: 2.52mg
Vitamin A: 59.04µg
Vitamin C: 118.69mg

Expert Technique Tip for Perfecting This Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad

When shredding the brussels sprouts, it's best to use a sharp knife and cut them as thinly as possible. This will not only make them easier to eat raw, but it will also allow them to absorb more of the vinaigrette, resulting in a more flavorful salad. Additionally, when cooking the bacon, try to keep the heat medium-low to render out as much fat as possible without burning it, this will give you crispy bacon with a rich flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad

Prep ahead: Chop the brussels sprouts and cook the bacon in advance to save time when assembling the salad.

Use a food processor: Shred the brussels sprouts quickly and easily using a food processor to cut down on prep time.

Multi-task: While the bacon is cooking, prepare the vinaigrette and avocado to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Keep it simple: Stick to basic vinaigrette ingredients and minimal prep to streamline the recipe without sacrificing flavor.

Organize your workspace: Clear and organize your kitchen workspace before starting to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Avocado Recipe

brussels sprouts - Substitute with shredded kale: Shredded kale can be used as a substitute for brussels sprouts in this salad to provide a similar texture and a slightly earthy flavor.
bacon - Substitute with smoked turkey bacon: Smoked turkey bacon can be used as a healthier alternative to traditional bacon, providing a similar smoky flavor and texture.
avocado - Substitute with chopped cucumber: Chopped cucumber can be used as a substitute for avocado to add a refreshing crunch and a mild, fresh flavor to the salad.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can be used as a substitute for dijon mustard, adding a slightly grainy texture and a more robust flavor to the vinaigrette.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for red wine vinegar, providing a slightly fruity and tangy flavor to the vinaigrette.

How to Beautifully Present This Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad

Elevate the dish with a stunning presentation: When plating the shredded raw brussels sprout salad with bacon and avocado, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use the vibrant colors of the ingredients to create a beautiful contrast and balance on the plate.
Incorporate textural contrast: Introduce textural elements to the dish to add complexity and interest. Consider incorporating crispy bacon bits and creamy avocado slices to provide a delightful contrast in every bite.
Balance the flavors: Ensure that the flavors are well-balanced by layering the ingredients thoughtfully. The saltiness of the bacon should complement the earthy flavor of the brussels sprouts, while the creaminess of the avocado adds a luxurious touch.
Highlight the freshness of the ingredients: Emphasize the freshness of the brussels sprouts and avocado by arranging them in a way that showcases their natural beauty. This will convey a sense of quality and attention to detail.
Pay attention to plate composition: Create a visually appealing plate composition by arranging the ingredients in a way that is both aesthetically pleasing and allows for easy consumption. Consider the placement of each element to ensure a harmonious overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad

Skillet: A large heavy nonstick skillet is recommended for cooking the bacon until crispy.
Small bowl: Use a small bowl to whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients.
Large bowl: Toss the shredded brussels sprouts in a large bowl with the vinaigrette.
Paper towel: Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel to drain and remove excess grease.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad

To store leftover shredded raw brussels sprout salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2-3 days, but keep in mind that the bacon and avocado may lose their crispness and freshness over time.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, you can shred the brussels sprouts and store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Prepare the vinaigrette and store it separately in a jar or airtight container. Cook and crumble the bacon, and store it in a separate container in the fridge. When ready to serve, toss the brussels sprouts with the vinaigrette, and top with the bacon and freshly sliced avocado.
It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture and quality of the raw brussels sprouts, bacon, and avocado will deteriorate significantly upon thawing. The vinaigrette may also separate and lose its consistency when frozen and thawed.
If you have leftover cooked bacon, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, place the bacon on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until crispy.

Interesting Trivia About Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad

Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They are also low in calories and can be enjoyed raw in salads, providing a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal.

Is Making This Brussels Sprout Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This shredded raw brussels sprout salad with bacon and avocado recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as brussels sprouts and bacon, are relatively affordable and easily accessible. The addition of avocado may slightly increase the cost, but it provides a nutritious and flavorful element. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12. Overall Verdict: 9. The dish offers a balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and healthy option.

Is This Brussels Sprout Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This shredded raw brussels sprout salad with bacon and avocado recipe is a mix of healthy and indulgent ingredients. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional aspects:

Healthy components:

Brussels sprouts are nutrient-dense, providing fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants
Avocado offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium
Olive oil in the vinaigrette is a source of healthy fats
Red onion contains quercetin, an antioxidant with potential health benefits

Less healthy components:

Bacon is high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess
The recipe lacks a significant source of lean protein

To make this salad healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of bacon or replace it with a leaner protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp
Add more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as:
- Cherry tomatoes for vitamin C and lycopene
- Carrots for beta-carotene and fiber
- Quinoa or chickpeas for plant-based protein and fiber
Use a reduced-fat or Greek yogurt-based dressing to lower the overall fat content
Increase the portion size of brussels sprouts to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the salad

By incorporating these changes, you can transform this salad into a more balanced and nutritious meal while still enjoying the unique combination of flavors and textures. The key is to strike a balance between the indulgent ingredients and the nutrient-dense components, ensuring that you're providing your body with the fuel it needs to thrive.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe

This shredded raw brussels sprout salad with bacon and avocado recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while the creamy avocado provides a smooth contrast. The vinaigrette, with its tangy and slightly sweet notes, ties everything together beautifully. The use of raw brussels sprouts adds a fresh and crunchy element to the salad. Overall, this dish is a perfect balance of indulgence and healthiness, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Enhance Your Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Avocado Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, the perfect complement to the crispy bacon and fresh brussels sprouts.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, adding a burst of freshness to the hearty salad.

Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Tart: A savory tart filled with sweet caramelized onions and rich gruyere cheese, a delicious accompaniment to the smoky bacon and creamy avocado.

Similar Salad Recipes to Try If You Love This Brussels Sprout Dish

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Wrap asparagus spears in crispy bacon and bake until golden brown for a savory and indulgent appetizer.

Avocado and Shrimp Salad: Toss together creamy avocado, succulent shrimp, and crisp vegetables for a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Simmer roasted butternut squash with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk for a comforting and flavorful soup.

Mixed Berry Crisp: Combine fresh berries with a buttery oat crumble topping and bake until bubbly for a sweet and irresistible dessert.

Ideal Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke dip with crispy tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The rich and flavorful dip is the perfect way to kick off any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and satisfying parfait. A delightful combination of flavors and textures in every spoonful.

Why trust this Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Avocado Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The brussels sprouts provide a satisfying crunch, while the bacon adds a savory and smoky element. The creamy avocado complements the dish with its rich and buttery taste. The vinaigrette, made with dijon mustard, olive oil, and red wine vinegar, enhances the salad with a tangy and zesty kick. The inclusion of red onion adds a subtle sharpness, and the kosher salt brings everything together with a perfect balance of seasoning. Trust in this recipe for a refreshing and flavorful salad experience.

Want to share your experience making this Shredded Raw Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Avocado or discuss variations and tips? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I prepare the brussels sprouts for the salad?

To prepare the brussels sprouts, trim off the stem end and any discolored outer leaves. Then, thinly slice the brussels sprouts using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer.

Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using it on the salad.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if you prefer a leaner option. Cook the turkey bacon until crispy and follow the same instructions for the recipe.

How should I choose ripe avocados for the salad?

Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure when you press the skin. They should be firm but give a little when ripe. Avoid avocados that are mushy or have dark spots.

Can I add any additional ingredients to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad to your liking. You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, toasted nuts, or crumbled cheese to enhance the flavors and textures.