If you’re ready to fall in love all over again with a salad, let me introduce you to the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Recipe. This dish takes the classic Caesar salad you adore and gives it a fresh, crisp makeover by swapping out the usual romaine for delicately shaved Brussels sprouts. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of crunchy texture, sharp parmesan notes, and that irresistible creamy Caesar dressing that ties everything together. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or a vibrant side, this recipe brings a bright, satisfying experience that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large clear glass bowl filled with bright green whole Brussels sprouts is placed at the top left, beside a whole shiny yellow lemon on a white marbled surface. Below the lemon is a small white bowl with coarse salt and black pepper, next to it is a small clear bowl with golden olive oil, and nearby a small white bowl containing a light brown creamy sauce. Towards the bottom left are two metal bowls; one holds light brown bread cubes with crust and the other contains shredded white cheese. In the center is a white bowl with three small piles: light yellow minced garlic, dark green capers, and coarse reddish-brown mustard. Fresh green onion stalks and a bunch of flat-leaf parsley with long stems lie on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is a celebration of simple, quality ingredients that come together to create big flavor and texture contrasts. Each component plays a crucial role, whether adding creaminess, crunch, or that signature tang that makes this salad memorable. Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this wonderful salad.

4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts: The star of the dish, shaved thin for a tender yet crisp bite that soaks up the dressing beautifully.
1/4 cup grated parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the classic Caesar vibe.
1/2 cup croutons or toasted breadcrumbs: For that wonderful crunch and texture contrast in every forkful.
1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts (optional): A nutty addition if you want an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the Caesar dressing that brings everything together with richness.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Provides a bright, zesty pop to balance the richness of the dressing.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a subtle tang to the dressing.
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami and traditional Caesar complexity.
1 small garlic clove, minced: Infuses the dressing with classic garlic flavor – a must-have for authenticity.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, rounding out the flavor.

How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Recipe

Step 1: Shave the Brussels Sprouts

Start by washing your Brussels sprouts thoroughly, then shave them thinly using either a sharp knife or a food processor fitted with a slicing blade. Shaving them finely turns these little gems into delicate ribbons that will mix perfectly with the dressing and create that satisfying crunch without the bitterness often associated with cooked Brussels sprouts.

Step 2: Whisk the Caesar Dressing

Next, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until you get a smooth, creamy dressing. This homemade dressing captures the spirit of the classic Caesar while adding a fresh brightness that complements the raw sprouts perfectly.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Place the shaved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and drizzle the dressing over the top. Add the grated parmesan and croutons or toasted breadcrumbs, then toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every strand of Brussels sprouts is coated with that luscious dressing and speckled with cheese and crunch. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle those on last to keep their texture intact.

Step 4: Let It Rest and Serve

Here’s a little secret to making this salad even better: let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief rest softens the sprouts just enough to mellow their bite while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making each forkful lush and nicely balanced.

How to Serve Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Recipe

A large white bowl filled with a fresh salad showing three main layers: the base layer is shredded light green Brussels sprouts mixed with dark green kale leaves, the middle layer is scattered golden-brown toasted bread pieces, and the top layer is thin white shavings of cheese spread evenly over the salad. The salad has a creamy dressing that lightly coats the greens and bread. Next to the bowl, there is a wooden fork on the left and a wooden spoon on the right, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your salad with a sprinkling of freshly cracked black pepper or a few shavings of extra parmesan right before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add a final touch of brightness that elevates the dish even further, making it look as vibrant as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or pan-seared salmon for a full meal. It also complements heartier mains like roasted pork or steak, providing a crisp and refreshing contrast to rich flavors. For a vegetarian pairing, consider serving it alongside warm garlic bread or a creamy risotto.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this salad in individual glass jars or on elegant small plates for dinner parties. For a fun twist, pile it atop toasted baguette slices to create satisfying bruschetta-style bites. The vibrant green ribbons of Brussels sprouts make for an eye-catching presentation that will surely impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store the salad longer or to maintain that perfect crispness. When ready to eat, toss the components together again before serving.

Freezing

Because this salad features raw Brussels sprouts and a creamy dressing, freezing is not recommended. Freezing will negatively affect the texture of the sprouts and the quality of the dressing, resulting in a less enjoyable dining experience.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh, raw salad, reheating is unnecessary and would diminish its texture and flavor. Instead, if you’d like a warm element, serve it with hot grilled proteins or warm sides as described earlier.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this salad?

Frozen Brussels sprouts are usually blanched and softened, so they won’t offer the crisp texture that makes this salad special. For the best experience, fresh Brussels sprouts shaved thin are key.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce if you want to keep it fully vegetarian, as traditional Worcestershire sauce often contains anchovies.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing?

Yes, you can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version. Keep in mind this will tweak the flavor slightly but will still taste delicious.

How long can I prep this salad in advance?

Shave the Brussels sprouts and prepare the dressing up to a day ahead, but toss them together just before serving to maintain the crunch and freshness.

What are some tasty additions to customize this salad?

Feel free to add cooked bacon bits, anchovies, or grilled chicken to make this salad a heartier meal. Some lemon zest or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add exciting pops of flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly delightful about the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Recipe that makes it a standout in any meal spread. It’s fresh, crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor — a perfect way to brighten up your salad game. I encourage you to give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your personal favorites to whip up on busy days or whenever you want a satisfying, vibrant dish. Your taste buds will thank you!

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Recipe