As I sliced through the crispness of the season’s first Brussels sprouts, the kitchen filled with a delightful aroma that instantly transported me to cozy autumn evenings. This Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego Cheese showcases the contrasting flavors and textures that make fall produce come alive. It’s a fantastic vegetarian and gluten-free dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also serves beautifully as a make-ahead option, allowing the ingredients to deepen in flavor overnight. With juicy red pears mingling with salty cheese and crunchy pumpkin seeds, this salad is a delightful addition to your table during this vibrant season. Are you ready to discover how this simple yet elegant salad can transform your meals?

Why is this salad a fall favorite?

Colorful, Seasonal Ingredients: This salad brings together the best of autumn with fresh Brussels sprouts and juicy red pears. Easy to Make: Perfect for busy weeknights, it requires minimal prep time but delivers maximum flavor. Flavor Harmony: The savory Manchego cheese brilliantly complements the sweet pears, while the lemon-Dijon dressing adds a refreshing kick. Make-Ahead Magic: Enjoy it fresh or let it marinate overnight for enhanced taste—ideal for meal prep! Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This salad is not just nutritious; it serves as a stunning centerpiece for fall gatherings, pairing wonderfully with dishes like Steakhouse Potato Salad or a hearty soup.

Brussels and Pear Salad Ingredients

• This list includes everything you need for a scrumptious Brussels and Pear Salad!

For the Salad

Brussels Sprouts – The crunchy base of the salad; using pre-shredded is a great time-saver.
Red Pear – Juicy and sweet, perfect for adding that fall flavor; you can swap it for another pear or apple variety if needed.
Dried Apple Slices – Offers chewiness and sweetness; golden raisins make a delightful substitute.
Manchego Cheese – Creamy and savory, it’s the cheese star of the dish; feel free to use Parmesan or feta in its place.
Pumpkin Seeds – Adds nutty crunch; sunflower seeds or chopped nuts provide a good alternative.

For the Dressing

Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens up the entire salad; freshly squeezed juice is best!
Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy flavor to the dressing; yellow mustard works as a milder option.
Garlic – Gives an aromatic flavor; fresh grated garlic elevates the taste, while garlic powder is a handy alternative.
Honey – Balances the dressing’s flavors with its sweetness; maple syrup can be used for a vegan alternative.
Sea Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances all flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Acts as the emulsifier in the dressing; using high-quality oil makes a noticeable difference.

✨ Enjoy this delightful Brussels and Pear Salad as a fresh addition to your fall meals!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brussels and Pear Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Begin by shredding the Brussels sprouts using a mandoline slicer, food processor, or a sharp knife. Aim for thin, even slices that will provide a delightful crunch. In a large mixing bowl, season the shredded sprouts with ¼ teaspoon of sea salt, letting them sit for about 10 minutes to soften slightly while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. Gradually drizzle in ⅓ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, continuously whisking until the dressing emulsifies and becomes slightly thickened, creating a luscious coating for your Brussels and Pear Salad.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Once your dressing is ready, return to your large bowl with the seasoned Brussels sprouts. Add the julienned red pear, chopped dried apple slices, and the shaved Manchego cheese. Toss everything gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together before adding the crunchy pumpkin seeds for an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor.

Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the prepared lemon-Dijon dressing over the mixed salad ingredients. Using tongs, carefully toss the salad to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated with the vibrant dressing. This step not only enhances the flavors but also adds a beautiful sheen to your Brussels and Pear Salad, enticing everyone to dig in.

Step 5: Marinate or Serve
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch, or let it sit for about 15-30 minutes to marinate. This resting time allows the ingredients to soften slightly and the flavors to intensify, resulting in a more flavorful dish. If preparing in advance, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for a delicious make-ahead option.

How to Store and Freeze Brussels and Pear Salad

Fridge: Store leftover Brussels and Pear Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. However, it’s best enjoyed when freshly made.

Dressing Storage: If meal prepping, keep the lemon-Dijon dressing separate in the fridge for up to a week. This helps preserve the crunch of the salad.

Make-Ahead Tips: Consider preparing the salad components independently and combining them right before serving to enhance flavor and texture.

Reheating: This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature and doesn’t require reheating, allowing the vibrant flavors to shine through.

Make Ahead Options

These Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad with Manchego Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prep the Brussels sprouts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in advance to maintain their crunch. Additionally, slice the pears and toss them in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning, allowing them to be ready for assembly. If you want to go further, you can whisk the dressing and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply combine the prepared ingredients, add your refreshing dressing, and toss everything together for a salad that’s just as delicious as it is time-saving!

Helpful Tricks for Brussels and Pear Salad

Choosing Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, compact sprouts with vibrant green outer leaves. Avoid any that are wilted or yellowing for the best crunch.
Perfect Parmesan Substitute: If you can’t find Manchego cheese, use grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for a similar creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.
Toast Pumpkin Seeds: Elevate your salad by toasting pumpkin seeds for 5-7 minutes until golden. This intensifies their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch to your Brussels and Pear Salad.
Fresh Is Best: Always opt for fresh lemon juice over bottled varieties. It brightens the dressing and enhances the overall taste of the salad, making it irresistibly delicious!
Safety First: When using a mandoline slicer, always use the hand guard and work slowly to avoid cuts. Keeping your fingers safe ensures a joyful cooking experience!
Enhance Flavors: For maximum flavor, prepare the salad a few hours in advance. The marination allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.

Brussels and Pear Salad Variations

Customize your salad experience with these delightful twists that enhance flavor and texture!

Cheese Swap: Replace Manchego with Feta or Goat Cheese for a tangy kick. Both offer a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
Dried Fruit Change: Use Cranberries or Cherries instead of dried apples for a fruity tartness. Their brightness complements the sweet pears, creating a complex flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Add Fresh Thyme or Parsley for an aromatic upgrade. Just a handful will make your salad feel more vibrant and seasonal.
Nutty Alternative: Swap pumpkin seeds for Sunflower Seeds or Chopped Walnuts. Each brings a unique crunch and a hint of nuttiness that deepens the salad’s flavors.
Extra Dressing: For an added zing, include Balsamic Vinegar with your lemon-Dijon dressing. This sour touch enhances the sweetness of the pears beautifully!
Vegan-Friendly: Substitute Honey with Maple Syrup for a plant-based sweetener that still keeps the dressing balanced.
Spice It Up: Craving heat? Toss in a pinch of Red Pepper Flakes to the dressing for a pleasant kick. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their salads!
Crunchy Toppers: Add a sprinkle of Toasted Coconut Flakes or Panko Breadcrumbs on top for a fun crunch. These twists transform the texture, making every bite a delight.

Explore these variations to create a special version of your Brussels and Pear Salad that fits your taste, much like how a hearty plate of Cranberry Orange Salad brightens up a meal! Let your creativity shine as you whip up this lovely dish!

What to Serve with Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad

As the aromas of your vibrant salad waft through the kitchen, consider combining it with delicious pairings that create a wholesome meal!

Creamy Polenta: The smooth, comforting texture of polenta complements the crispness of the salad, creating a satisfying contrast.
Roasted Butternut Squash: A sweet nuttiness that balances and enhances the earthiness of Brussels sprouts, bringing warmth to your plate.
Savory Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs and spices adds heartiness, elevating the salad to a complete dish.
Grilled Chicken: A tender protein option that offers a savory counterpoint to the sweet and tangy elements of the salad.
Toasted Baguette Slices: The crunch of toasted bread provides a simple yet delightful side to scoop up the salad’s components.
Autumn Fruit Platter: Fresh figs, grapes, and slices of persimmons offer a sweet and refreshing contrast that echoes the salad’s flavors.
Cranberry Apple Cider: A delightful drink that ties in with the fall theme, adding a fruity flare that complements the salad’s sweetness.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: A subtly sweet baked treat that harmonizes with the salad’s flavors, perfect for dessert after a wholesome meal.

Each of these hearty options accentuates the crisp, vibrant notes of your Brussels and Pear Salad while making your table feel warm and inviting this fall!

Brussels and Pear Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are ripe?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, compact sprouts that are bright green and free from yellowing or wilting. The outer leaves should feel tight and not have dark spots all over, which indicates freshness. If you find them in a grocery store, often the small, younger sprouts are sweeter and more tender.

What’s the best way to store leftover Brussels and Pear Salad?
To maintain the salad’s delightful freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you’ve made the dressing ahead, it can be kept separately for up to a week to maintain the texture of the salad ingredients.

Can I freeze Brussels and Pear Salad?
While you can freeze some components of this salad, I wouldn’t recommend freezing the entire salad due to the texture changes. If you’re making it ahead, consider freezing only the chopped Brussels sprouts or the dressing. To do this, place them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before incorporating back into your salad.

What should I do if my salad is too tangy?
If you find your salad a bit too tangy, don’t fret! You can balance it out easily. Try adding a pinch more honey to sweeten it or a little extra olive oil to mellow the dressing’s acidity. Additionally, you can toss in a handful of fresh arugula or spinach, which adds a subtle earthiness and can help counter the tanginess.

Is this salad safe for people with nut allergies?
Very! The Brussels and Pear Salad is naturally free from nuts. However, if you’re using pumpkin seeds and someone has a seed allergy, they can be omitted entirely, or substitute with a nut-free seed like sunflower seeds. Always ensure that your ingredients are free from cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.

Can pets enjoy this salad?
Generally, the ingredients in the Brussels and Pear Salad are safe for dogs in moderation, specifically Brussels sprouts and pear slices without seeds. However, avoid offering them cheese or honey. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure that any new foods you introduce to your pets are safe for them.