Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. I love how the crunchy Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with sweet, juicy red pears and the rich, nutty flavor of Manchego cheese. It’s one of those salads that can brighten up any meal, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering.

What makes this salad truly special is its simplicity. You can whip it up in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those days when you need something quick yet satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with fresh produce and healthy fats, it’s a guilt-free addition to your table.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet flavor of pear combined with the savory cheese will please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the components ahead of time and toss them together just before serving.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or add protein for a complete meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego is made from simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

• 1 lb. whole Brussels sprouts (or 1 12-oz. bag of pre-shredded/shaved Brussels sprouts)
• 1 red pear, julienned
• 1/2 cup dried apple slices, roughly chopped (or 1/4 cup golden raisins)
• 1/3 cup shaved Manchego cheese (sub Parmesan or feta)
• 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds

For the Dressing

• 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
• 1 small grated garlic clove
• 1/2 tsp. honey
• 1/4 tsp. each sea salt and black pepper
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own.

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in sliced almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Go Green: Mix in some baby spinach or arugula for added greens.
• Change Up the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Manchego, try using crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan instead.
• Sweeten It Up: Add pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness and color.

How to Make Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by shredding your Brussels sprouts using a mandoline or your preferred method. If you’re using whole sprouts, make sure they are thinly sliced so they soak up all that delicious dressing later on. Once shredded, add them to a large bowl and season with 1/4 tsp. salt to enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

Next up is the dressing! In a separate bowl, combine the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. Then gradually stream in the olive oil while whisking continuously until it’s fully emulsified. A good dressing makes all the difference!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now for the fun part! To the bowl with your seasoned Brussels sprouts, add in the julienned pear, chopped dried apples (or golden raisins), shaved Manchego cheese, and toasted pumpkin seeds. Pour over your homemade dressing and toss gently to combine everything evenly. Taste it and season with additional salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with extra shredded cheese if desired.

And there you have it! A stunning Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego that’s ready to impress at any table! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego

Creating a delicious salad is all about the details, and I’m here to share some tips that will take your Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad to the next level!

• Choose fresh Brussels sprouts: Fresh sprouts will have a crisp texture and vibrant flavor. If you can find them at a local market, opt for whole Brussels sprouts instead of pre-shredded ones for an added crunch.
• Make your dressing ahead of time: Preparing the lemon-Dijon dressing in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days, making meal prep a breeze!
• Toast your pumpkin seeds: Lightly toasting the pumpkin seeds enhances their nutty flavor and adds an extra crunch to your salad. Just toss them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they’re golden brown.
• Balance sweetness with acidity: Adjust the honey and lemon juice in your dressing according to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add more honey; if you like it tangier, increase the lemon juice.
• Experiment with cheese alternatives: While Manchego is delightful, trying different cheeses like feta or Parmesan can provide unique flavors and textures. Feel free to swap based on what you have on hand!

How to Serve Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego

Serving this salad is all about presentation! With its vibrant colors and textures, it can be both a stunning centerpiece or a delightful side dish. Here are some ideas:

Garnishes

• Extra shaved cheese: A sprinkle of additional Manchego or your cheese of choice not only looks beautiful but also enhances the flavor.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or mint can add freshness and color, elevating both the appearance and taste of your salad.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, fluffy dish complements the salad’s flavors while adding protein and fiber. It’s also easy to prepare in advance!
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing of the salad, providing a comforting contrast.
• Grilled Chicken Breast: For those looking for added protein, grilled chicken offers a simple yet satisfying addition that works well with the salad’s ingredients.
• Chickpea Hummus with Veggies: Serve this alongside for an easy appetizer! The creaminess of hummus pairs nicely with crunchy veggies while offering additional nutrients.

Enjoy creating this delightful Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego! It’s perfect for any occasion—be it a family dinner or a festive gathering. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego is not only a delightful dish but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 days for the best taste and freshness.
• If possible, add dressing just before serving to keep the salad crisp.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the Brussels sprouts and fresh ingredients.
• If you have leftovers without dressing, consider freezing only the shredded Brussels for use in cooked dishes later.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature; no reheating is necessary.
• If you prefer it warm, sauté the shredded Brussels briefly in a pan over medium heat before adding your other ingredients.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about the Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego that might help!

Can I use a different cheese instead of Manchego in the Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego?

Absolutely! While Manchego adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with Parmesan or feta cheese for a delicious twist. Each will bring its own character to the salad!

How can I make my Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego vegan?

To make this salad vegan-friendly, simply omit the cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What other ingredients can I add to my Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego?

Feel free to customize your salad! Nuts like walnuts or almonds add crunch, while fresh herbs like parsley or mint can enhance flavors. You could also include pomegranate seeds for added sweetness!

How long does it take to prepare the Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego?

This salad comes together in just 20 minutes! It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side dish for gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego! The combination of fresh produce, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and zesty dressing makes it truly special. Whether you’re having it as a light lunch or alongside your favorite dinner, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own variations. Happy cooking!