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Robin Ward

Crisp Fall Salad with Shaved Brussels Sprouts, Apple, and Vibrant Vinaigrette

This Crisp Fall Salad is a vibrant, seasonal dish with the perfect mix of textures and bold flavors. It features crunchy Brussels sprouts, fresh endive, sweet apples, and creamy cheese, all tossed in a tangy, vibrant vinaigrette. Hearty enough to stand alone as a lunch or a refreshing addition to any fall meal!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course: #main, #side, Appetizer, lunch, Salad
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the dressing:
  • 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3  cloves garlic, grated
  • 3 tsp kosher salt
  • 1½ Tbsp honey (Maple syrup can be used as a substitute if honey is unavailable.)
  • ½ tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • a few twists of black pepper
For the salad:
  • 10½ oz ~12 Brussels sprouts (300 g)
  • 1 celery heart
  • 4 white endives
  • 1 apple, any variety you like to eat
  • ½ lb  semi-firm cheese, like Manchego or Cheddar (215 grams)

Equipment

  • mandoline or a sharp knife
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. To make the dressing, combine all the ingredients in a small jar and shake. Dip a finger or endive leaf into the dressing to taste it, and adjust as you like.
  2. Trim and discard any tatty outer Brussels sprouts leaves and roots, then sliver the rest and place in a large salad bowl. Toss with half the dressing.
  3. Slice the cheese into matchsticks and set aside. Slice the apples into matchsticks and drop them into the remaining dressing so they don’t go brown.
  4. Slice the top inch off the endives, adding these cup-like leaves to the dressed sprouts.
  5. Sliver the rest of the endive and add to the bowl. Finely slice celery and add this, too. Add the apples and some or all of the remaining dressing, and the cheese, and toss.
  6. Grind black pepper over the top and enjoy lunch!

Notes

Storage and Serving Notes for Dressing:
  • Storage: This dressing can be kept at room temperature for up to a few days.
  • Serving Size: The quantities provided yield enough dressing for a salad serving 4–6 people.
 
Quick Tips for Adjusting Salad Dressings:
  • Customize to Your Taste and Ingredients: Homemade salad dressings are easy to adapt based on what you have on hand and your flavor preferences.
  • Mind Your Vinegar: Different vinegars have distinct flavor: Taste as you go! For example, balsamic vinegar can vary from sweet and thick to sharp and acidic, so adjust accordingly.
  • Balance Sweetness: If your salad has naturally sweet elements (like pumpkin or cheese), use less honey or maple syrup in your dressing. Add a bit more sweetness if you're pairing it with bitter greens like radicchio.
  • Incorporate Citrus: For a bright, seasonal twist, add juice from winter citrus or pomegranate segments to your dressing. This can add freshness and complexity, especially in colder months.