Are you tired of bland salads that leave you unsatisfied? This shaved brussels sprouts, fennel, and mandarin salad with lemon vinaigrette is here to change the game.
Bursting with fresh flavors and textures, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste. This recipe is perfect for brightening up your meal prep or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Why This Salad Stands Out
This recipe isn’t your average salad. Shaved brussels sprouts provide a hearty base that stays crisp and doesn’t wilt, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.
Sweet mandarin segments add a pop of citrusy brightness, while fennel’s subtle licorice flavor balances the salad beautifully.
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Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, every bite feels light, vibrant, and utterly satisfying. Plus, this dish is packed with nutrients and is a great way to incorporate healthy food into your diet without feeling deprived.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors & Textures
One of the standout features of this recipe is its combination of textures. From the crunch of thinly sliced almonds to the delicate crispness of brussels sprouts, every bite is exciting.
The fennel’s mild crunch complements the juicy mandarin slices perfectly, while the lemon vinaigrette ties it all together with its tangy, refreshing kick. For an optional savory touch, pecorino Romano cheese adds a hint of creaminess,
How to Customize This Recipe
Whether you’re looking to make this recipe suit your dietary needs or want to experiment with new flavors, there are plenty of ways to customize it:
- Vegan Option: Skip the cheese and replace honey in the dressing with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.
- Low-Carb Twist: Reduce or omit the mandarin oranges to lower the carbohydrate content while keeping the salad’s integrity
- Protein Boost: Add shredded roasted chicken or flaked cod for a more filling meal.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Swap sliced almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
These simple adjustments make this healthy recipe versatile and adaptable for any occasion.
Tips for the Best Results
- Shave the Brussels Sprouts Properly: Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for ultra-thin, even slices. This ensures the salad has the perfect texture.
- Make the Dressing in Advance: Allowing the lemon vinaigrette to rest for at least 15 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Toast the Almonds: Lightly toasting the almonds enhances their natural nuttiness and adds an extra layer of flavor.
This salad stores well in an airtight container for up to four days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. The hearty ingredients hold up wonderfully, so you can enjoy it throughout the week without worrying about soggy greens.
Why This Recipe Fits Your Health Food Goals
Unlike heavy, calorie-laden salads, this dish is light yet satisfying. The ingredients are thoughtfully chosen to provide both flavor and nutrition, making it a guilt-free addition to your meal rotation.
Its visual appeal ensures it’ll be the star of any table .
This shaved brussels sprouts, fennel, and mandarin salad with lemon vinaigrette proves that healthy food can be exciting, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.
Healthy Shaved Brussels Sprouts, Fennel & Mandarin Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Equipment
- Mandoline slicer or sharp knife (optional for shaving Brussels sprouts)
Ingredients
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Salad:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts trimmed and shaved or thinly sliced
- 6 mandarin oranges peeled and segmented
- 2 green onions white and green parts, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 medium fennel bulb fronds removed, cored, and very thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Instructions
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, thoroughly whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the shaved Brussels sprouts, mandarin orange segments, thinly sliced green onions, sliced almonds, fennel, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Dress and Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats the mixture.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately for the freshest taste. Alternatively, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- For added protein, mix in shredded roasted chicken or flaked cod.
- Using a mandoline slicer can speed up the process of shaving Brussels sprouts and fennel. If you choose to use one, make sure to wear a cut-resistant glove for safety.
Nutrition
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.