If you have never experienced the delightful crunch and fresh vibrancy of a well-balanced slaw, the Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe is going to change your salads game forever. This slaw takes humble Brussels sprouts and transforms them into a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet masterpiece that bursts with texture and flavor in every bite. Combining the crispness of thinly chopped sprouts, the zing of Dijon mustard with citrus juices, and the richness of Parmesan cheese, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether as a side or a stand-alone snack, this recipe is sure to become your new go-to for easy, impressive, and irresistibly fresh eats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays its part—whether it’s adding crunch, creaminess, brightness, or a pop of color. Getting these staples right ensures your slaw will be bursting with flavor and totally crave-worthy.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts: Fresh and firm, these are the star ingredient that offer a natural crunch and slightly nutty flavor when chopped correctly.
- ½ cup small diced red onion: Adds a subtle sharpness and lovely color contrast.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that binds all the flavors beautifully together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a silky texture and enhances the dressing’s richness.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Delivers a tangy bite that lifts the entire dressing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Brings a fresh citrusy zing to brighten every mouthful.
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and fruity depth.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances acidity with gentle sweetness.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan: Offers a salty, nutty layer that complements the sprouts perfectly.
- ½ cup dried cranberries or cherries (optional): For those who love a sweet-tart burst amidst the creaminess.
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds (optional): Adds a wonderful crunch and earthiness to finish.
How to Make Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by slicing the Brussels sprouts and then roughly chopping them to bite-sized pieces. This technique ensures each forkful has just the right amount of crunch and tenderness, making every bite enjoyable and perfectly textured in this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
Whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, honey, diced red onion, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This blend of zesty, sweet, and savory tastes creates the unforgettable dressing that envelops the Brussels sprouts with tangy richness.
Step 3: Toss the Brussels Sprouts with Dressing
Pour the dressing over the chopped Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Toss everything thoroughly, making sure every shred is beautifully coated. This melding process brings out the brightness and smooth texture that define the Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Sprinkle in the finely grated Parmesan, dried cranberries or cherries if using, and pumpkin seeds if desired. Give the slaw one last gentle toss so these additions become sprinkled throughout, adding pops of flavor and texture that elevate the dish beyond ordinary.
Step 5: Serve or Chill
Transfer your slaw to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately for fresh crunch or chill it in the refrigerator for a cold, refreshing salad experience. Both ways highlight the Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe’s versatility and delightful character.
How to Serve Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra Parmesan or a handful of pumpkin seeds on top for that irresistible finishing touch. A little drizzle of fresh lime juice or a few fresh herbs like parsley can also add a vibrant pop that makes your presentation shine.
Side Dishes
This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or as a crisp counterbalance to rich and hearty mains like barbecue ribs or sandwiches. Its bright flavors and creamy texture are perfect to lighten up any plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the slaw in crisp lettuce cups for a fun handheld salad, or layer it atop tacos for an unexpected, crunchy surprise. You can also stuff it into pita pockets or alongside burgers to add fresh flavor and texture to your favorite comfort foods.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier as it rests, though the pumpkin seeds might soften a bit over time.
Freezing
This slaw is best enjoyed fresh or chilled rather than frozen since the texture of the Brussels sprouts and dressing can be affected negatively by freezing. For the best experience, prepare fresh or store refrigerated for short-term enjoyment.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is unnecessary. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute any dressing that may have settled, and it will be ready to enjoy cold and crisp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this slaw?
Fresh Brussels sprouts offer the best texture and flavor for this slaw. Frozen sprouts tend to become mushy when thawed, which can affect the crunch and overall experience of the Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the Parmesan cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast which brings a similar nutty, cheesy flavor while keeping the recipe dairy-free.
How long can I prepare this slaw before serving?
You can make this slaw up to a day ahead. Just give it a good toss before serving to freshen up the flavors and redistribute the dressing evenly.
Can I add other vegetables to the slaw?
Definitely! Thinly sliced carrots, apples, or even radishes make fantastic additions, adding more color and crunch to your Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe.
What’s the best way to slice Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
First, trim the ends then slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Follow up by roughly chopping larger slices so every piece is bite-sized, helping you achieve that ideal texture balance.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe feels like passing along a little bit of joy and freshness with every bite. It’s easy to make, bursting with brightness, and has that perfect creamy crunch that keeps you coming back for more. Try it soon—you’ll find it’s endlessly adaptable and a refreshing way to enjoy Brussels sprouts like never before.
Print
Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 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, vibrant salad featuring chopped Brussels sprouts tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh citrus juices. Enhanced with Parmesan cheese, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and sweet dried cranberries or cherries, this nutritious slaw offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, perfect as a side dish or light snack.
Ingredients
Slaw
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, sliced and then roughly chopped
- ½ cup small diced red onion
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries or cherries (optional)
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds (optional)
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 and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Place the sliced and roughly chopped Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl, ensuring the pieces are bite-sized for a pleasant texture in the slaw.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or container, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, honey, diced red onion, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, and the ingredients are well-blended.
- Toss Brussels Sprouts with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the Brussels sprouts in the large bowl. Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure the sprouts are evenly coated with the dressing, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Toppings: Add the finely grated Parmesan cheese, dried cranberries or cherries (if using), and pumpkin seeds (if using) into the bowl. Toss the mixture once more until all the toppings are distributed evenly throughout the slaw.
- Serve or Chill: Transfer the Brussels sprouts slaw to a serving bowl. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to eat for chilled, crisp slaw.
Notes
- For best texture, slice Brussels sprouts thinly and chop to bite-sized pieces.
- Optional dried cranberries or cherries add natural sweetness; omit for a less sweet slaw.
- Pumpkin seeds provide crunch but can be substituted with toasted nuts if preferred.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste for optimal flavor balance.
- Can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated to let flavors meld; stir before serving.
