Delicious Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe with Chickpeas and Salami
When it comes to creating a salad that’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, the Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe is a triumphant hit. Imagine a vibrant medley of fresh ingredients mingling together in dazzling harmony, with the nutty crunch of Brussels sprouts at the center stage, waiting to dance on your palate. This delightful dish combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts, with a zesty vinaigrette, and a playful mix of salami and cheese, bringing a symphony of textures and flavors that will make you rethink every boring salad you’ve ever eaten.
This salad isn’t just perfect for knee-slapping family dinners or boisterous gatherings with friends—it’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug. Remember that one summer barbecue when someone reluctantly put a sad bowl of leafy greens on the table? Well, this Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad guarantees to replace that aimless leaf pile with an explosion of color, flavor, and a touch of Italian flair. Ready to dazzle your dinner guests and bring some pizzazz to your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this engaging recipe!
Why You'll Love This Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
- This incredible Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe:
⅓ cup olive oil – Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar – A must for adding brightness and tang to the dressing.
1-2 teaspoons sugar or honey – Adjust based on your preference for sweetness in the dressing.
1 clove garlic, finely minced – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful punch of flavor.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds depth and helps emulsify the dressing.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs to capture that classic Italian flavor essence.
½ teaspoon salt – Essential for balancing flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – A twist of pepper enhances the overall flavor.
1 pound Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and outer leaves removed – Look for firm sprouts for the best crunch.
1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained – Adds protein and fiber for a hearty element.
4-6 ounces thinly sliced Genoa salami, cut in half or julienned – Provides smoky, savory bits that elevate the salad.
1 ½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved – Juicy and sweet, they’re nature’s candy!
½ cup pitted sliced Kalamata or black olives – These add a salty, briny contrast for flavor balance.
¼ cup sliced pepperoncinis – A little zing that keeps things exciting!
½ small red onion, thinly sliced – Provides sharpness and beautiful color.
½ cup cubed provolone cheese – Creamy, mild cheese that melts into the salad.
¼ cup shaved or shredded Parmesan cheese – For a rich, nutty finish on top of the salad.
How to Make Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe:
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar or honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the dressing is smooth and beautifully emulsified.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Using a food processor fitted with the slicing attachment, pulse the trimmed Brussels sprouts until they are thinly sliced. If you don’t have a food processor, grab a sharp knife and carefully thinly slice the Brussels sprouts.
Step 3: Marinate the Sprouts
Transfer the shredded Brussels sprouts to a large bowl and pour the prepared dressing over them. Use tongs to thoroughly coat the Brussels sprouts with the dressing, and let the mixture marinate for about 30 minutes, allowing those flavors to permeate properly.
Step 4: Chop the Mix-Ins
While the Brussels sprouts are getting cozy with the dressing, take this time to chop and prep the chickpeas, salami, cherry tomatoes, olives, pepperoncinis, red onion, provolone cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Combine Everything
After the marinating time, add the chickpeas, salami, tomatoes, olives, pepperoncinis, red onion, cubed provolone, and shaved Parmesan to the marinated Brussels sprouts. Gently toss everything together until well combined—this is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad immediately, but don’t shy away from adding extra freshly ground black pepper to taste. The bold flavors will have your taste buds begging for more.
This Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad is not just food; it’s a bonding experience, a joyous explosion of flavors! Whether it’s alongside a homemade pasta or at your next potluck, this dish will surely steal the show and keep everyone reaching for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, unleash your inner chef, and let this salad show you just how fabulous veggies can be!
This showstopping Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe Cooking Process
The key to a fabulous Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad is to prep your dressing first, then thinly slice those Brussels sprouts while the dressing marinates. Lastly, mix all ingredients together for a flavor-packed experience.
Add Your Touch to Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
Feel free to swap out the Genoa salami with pepperoni or turkey for a lighter option. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch or toss in some fresh herbs for brightness.
Storing & Reheating Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, but for best texture, enjoy it fresh. No need to heat; it’s perfect cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
- This professional-quality Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sometimes, I serve this dish at family gatherings, and the compliments just pour in. My aunt even asked if I’d start a catering business with my Brussels sprouts expertise!
FAQs About Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
What is Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe?
The Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe is a vibrant dish that combines finely chopped Brussels sprouts with various ingredients like chickpeas, Genoa salami, and a tangy homemade dressing. This salad is not just colorful but also packed with flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any meal. The combination of the crisp Brussels sprouts and the savory salami, together with fresh vegetables and cheeses, creates a balanced dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Can I make adjustments to the Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! The Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe is incredibly versatile. You can substitute the Genoa salami with turkey or even omit it for a vegetarian option. Feel free to add your favorite nuts for extra crunch or toss in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. The dressing can also be modified to suit your taste; you might replace red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter profile.
How should I store leftovers of the Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe?
To keep your Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad’s flavor only gets better with time as the ingredients marry together. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to enjoy it fresh. There’s no need to heat it; it tastes fantastic cold right out of the fridge.
What are the nutritional benefits of the Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe?
The Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe offers a variety of nutritional benefits. Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins C and K, and chickpeas provide a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. The addition of healthy fats from the olive oil and calories from the cheese makes this salad both filling and nutritious. It can serve as a light meal or a hearty side dish, fitting well into many diets.
Conclusion for Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe
This Italian Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe is sure to impress with its bright colors and amazing flavors. It’s an easy, adaptable dish that can work for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. With a perfect balance of textures and nutrients, this salad not only elevates your meal but also delights the taste buds. Whether you’re a Brussels sprouts fan or simply looking for a new recipe to try, this dish is worth adding to your culinary repertoire.
Italian Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar or honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- Using a food processor fitted with the slicing attachment, pulse the trimmed Brussels sprouts until they are thinly sliced. If you do not have a food processor, carefully thinly slice the Brussels sprouts with a sharp knife.
- Transfer the shredded Brussels sprouts to a large bowl and pour the prepared dressing over them. Use tongs to thoroughly coat the Brussels sprouts with the dressing. Let the mixture marinate for 30 minutes.
- While the Brussels sprouts marinate, chop and prep the chickpeas, salami, cherry tomatoes, olives, pepperoncinis, red onion, provolone cheese, and parmesan cheese.
- Add the chickpeas, salami, tomatoes, olives, pepperoncinis, red onion, cubed provolone, and shaved parmesan to the marinated Brussels sprouts. Toss everything together gently until well combined.
- Serve the salad immediately, adding extra freshly ground black pepper to taste.
