Description
A vibrant Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Salad combining fresh, crisp shredded Brussels sprouts with tender roasted butternut squash, smoky turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and toasted nuts, all tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet natural dressing. Perfect as a nutritious light lunch or a colorful side dish that delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup plant-based cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (natural)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (natural)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the butternut squash, then toss it lightly in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and golden on the edges. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and adds a beautiful caramelized flavor.
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: While the squash roasts, trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them thinly into ribbons using a sharp knife or food processor. This makes them easier to eat raw and helps maintain their crisp texture.
- Cook the Turkey Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil, then chop it into bite-sized pieces to sprinkle throughout the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar (natural), maple syrup (natural), Dijon mustard (natural), olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing offers a balanced sweetness and acidity to complement the vegetables.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts, roasted butternut squash, turkey bacon pieces, sliced red onion, toasted nuts, and plant-based cheese. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.
Notes
- Use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best crunch and flavor.
- Do not over-roast the butternut squash to avoid mushiness; aim for tender yet intact cubes.
- Lightly toast nuts to enhance aroma and add crunch.
- Soak thinly sliced onions briefly in cold water to tone down sharpness if preferred.
- Dress the salad just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of Brussels sprouts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Brussels sprouts salad, butternut squash, roasted vegetables, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon salad, healthy salad, gluten free salad