As I sifted through a pile of greens, the caramelized scent of bacon wafted through the air, instantly lifting my spirits. This Hearty Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing is unlike any salad you’ve encountered. With crispy bacon mingling seamlessly with tender kale and crunchy Brussels sprouts, it’s a surprisingly satisfying dish that transforms bland expectations into a vibrant celebration of flavors. Not only is it a low-carb delight, perfect for anyone looking to nourish their body without sacrificing taste, but this salad also makes a stunning centerpiece for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Curious how simple ingredients can create such a delightful twist? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why is this salad so irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy bacon, tender kale, and crunchy Brussels sprouts creates an unforgettable taste sensation.

Unique Dressing: The warm, cinnamon-spiced cider dressing elevates the dish, bringing warmth that’s perfect for all seasons.

Low-Carb Goodness: This salad not only satisfies but is also a healthy option for those following low-carb diets, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Crowd-Pleasing: Serve this as a vibrant centerpiece at holiday dinners or casual get-togethers, and watch it disappear quickly!

Adaptable Ingredients: With simple substitutions, like using dried cranberries or different cheeses, you can easily tailor it to your taste.

Don’t miss the chance to pair it with one of our favorites, like Maple Glazed Brussels or Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi for an even more delightful meal experience!

Brussels Sprouts Salad Ingredients

• Prepare your taste buds for a delightful experience with these fresh and vibrant ingredients!

For the Salad

Brussels Sprouts – The star of the salad, offering a delightful crunch and nuttiness; choose smaller sprouts for increased sweetness.
Kale – A nutrient powerhouse that adds body and color; a bagged kale salad mix can save time without compromising flavor.
Bacon – Provides a savory, crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the greens; try turkey bacon if you prefer a lighter option.
Walnuts – These add a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness; pecans work wonderfully as an alternative if you like a different flavor.
Pomegranate Seeds – The jewels of the salad, giving a pop of tartness and color; substitute with dried cranberries for a sweeter touch.
Manchego Cheese – Creamy and savory, enhancing the salad’s richness; substitute with feta or Parmesan for a different taste profile.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – The base for your dressing, enhancing other flavors beautifully; avocado oil can serve as a health-conscious substitute.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds the necessary acidity for balance; feel free to swap with lemon juice for a bright twist.
Maple Syrup – Introduces a lovely sweetness that complements the dressing; for a different hint of sweetness, honey is an excellent choice.
Cinnamon – A warm spice that infuses comforting flavors into the dressing; nutmeg could create an unexpected new note.
Shallots, Thyme, Orange Zest – These aromatics elevate the dressing’s complexity; regular onion can be used instead of shallots in a pinch.

Embrace the flavors of this Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon and take your taste experience to the next level!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and a sprig of rosemary, cooking until the bacon is crispy and golden, about 6–8 minutes. Once cooked, carefully drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan; this will enhance the flavor of your dressing. The bacon should be aromatic and firm, promising a delicious addition to your hearty Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad.

Step 2: Glaze the Walnuts
Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, a pinch of cayenne, and walnuts into the skillet with the bacon. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until the walnuts are beautifully glazed and golden-brown. The sugar should become syrupy, creating a luscious coating that adds a delightful crunch to your salad. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!

Step 3: Prepare the Greens
In a large bowl, combine shredded Brussels sprouts and chopped kale. Drizzle with olive oil, then gently massage the kale with your hands for about 2 minutes until it brightens and becomes tender. This extra step is crucial for your Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad, as it enhances the flavors and textures, making the greens more palatable.

Step 4: Toss in Additions
Fold in the pomegranate seeds, shredded Manchego cheese, and a sprinkle of pepitas to the bowl of greens. These ingredients add vibrant colors and various textures to your salad. Ensure even distribution so every bite is packed with flavor! Set the bowl aside while you whip up the dressing.

Step 5: Mix the Dressing
In a mason jar, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, shallots, fresh thyme, orange zest, cinnamon, along with salt and pepper to taste. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well blended. This zesty dressing will elevate your Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon, ensuring every ingredient shines through with flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring the greens are well-coated. Top with the warm bacon and walnut mixture right before serving for an added crunch and warmth. Your hearty Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon is now ready to be enjoyed, bursting with freshness and flavor!

How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the bacon and walnuts separate to maintain crispness and avoid sogginess.
Freezer: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, freeze the bacon mixture and walnuts separately for up to 1 month. The greens can become limp when thawed.
Reheating: Reheat the bacon mixture in a skillet on low heat until warmed through. Avoid reheating the greens, as it’s best to serve them fresh for optimal taste and texture.
Make-Ahead Tips: If you’re prepping in advance, store salad components separately, mixing them just before serving to retain freshness in your Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon.

Expert Tips for Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad

Choose Fresh Greens: Always opt for vibrant, fresh Brussels sprouts and kale to ensure maximum flavor and crunch in your salad.
Bacon Crispiness: Cook bacon until fully crisp; softer bacon may not provide the desired texture contrast in the Brussels sprouts salad.
Massage the Kale: Don’t skip the kale massaging step! This process softens the leaves, enhancing the taste and making it more enjoyable for your palate.
Dress Right Before Serving: To keep the greens crisp, dress your salad just before you serve it. This prevents wilting and maintains a delightful crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap ingredients according to your preferences; using pecans for walnuts or feta for Manchego can lead to exciting variations in your hearty salad recipe.
Warmth Matters: Make sure to serve the salad shortly after adding the warm bacon and walnut mixture to maintain its delightful temperature balance in your Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon.

What to Serve with Hearty Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon

Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this salad.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken adds a hearty protein contrast that harmonizes beautifully with the crispness of the salad.
Garlic Toast: Warm, buttery garlic toast offers a satisfying crunch, perfect for scooping up every last bite of this flavorful salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, fluffy side dish complements the textures in the salad while adding a touch of wholesome earthiness.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy, roasted sweet potatoes provide a subtle sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory bacon and tangy dressing.
Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy camembert to enhance the richness of the meal.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc complements the salad’s flavors and adds a refreshing touch to your dining experience.

Brussels Sprouts Salad Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this salad to your taste—exploration is part of the fun!

Dairy-Free: Replace the Manchego cheese with creamy avocado slices or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This twist keeps the dish vegan while adding a silky richness.
Protein Boost: Toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled shrimp for added protein. This makes your salad even heartier and satisfying—perfect for a full meal experience.
Nut-Free: Swap out the walnuts for sunflower seeds to accommodate nut allergies while still providing a crunch. These little seeds add a delightful pop without the worry.
Fruity Twist: Use sliced apples or pears instead of pomegranate seeds for a fresh, sweet contrast. It brings a delightful crunch and a seasonal touch, perfect for cozy fall dinners.
Spicy Kick: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to bring a bit of heat to the mix. This variation adds an exciting zing that will definitely wake up your taste buds!
Seasonal Greens: Mix in baby spinach or arugula for variety. The peppery notes of arugula pair beautifully with the dressing, enhancing the complex flavors of the salad.
Vegan Option: Simply skip the bacon and use smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for that smoky flavor without animal products. It’s an excellent way to cater to vegan guests while ensuring taste and texture.

Each adaptation leads to a unique experience with your Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad. Don’t forget to try pairing this dish with our Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi for a comforting feast or the refreshing Greek Tzatziki Chicken Salad Bowl for something light on the side!

Make Ahead Options

This Hearty Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can wash and shred the Brussels sprouts and chop the kale up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. Additionally, the bacon can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours; just reheat it briefly before serving to bring back its crunchy texture. Assemble the salad just before serving by combining everything and tossing with the dressing. Keeping the components separate until you’re ready to eat ensures your salad stays fresh and just as delicious!

Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon Recipe FAQs

What kind of Brussels sprouts should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! For a sweeter taste, I recommend using smaller Brussels sprouts. They tend to be less bitter and have a more delicate, nutty flavor, which perfectly complements the salad’s other ingredients.

How should I store leftover salad?
Store any leftover Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispness of the bacon and walnuts, keep them separate from the greens until you’re ready to eat.

Can I freeze this salad?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the bacon and walnut mixture separately for up to 1 month. I suggest avoiding freezing the greens, as they can become limp and lose their delightful crunch when thawed.

What should I do if the kale is tough?
Very! If your kale feels tough, don’t skip the massaging step. Gently rub the leaves between your fingers with a bit of olive oil for about 2 minutes until they turn bright green and tender. This makes a tremendous difference in flavor and texture, ensuring a more enjoyable salad experience.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re concerned about dietary restrictions, this Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad is naturally low-carb and can easily be adjusted for various preferences. You can swap the bacon for turkey bacon for a leaner option or skip it entirely for a vegetarian version. Also, be mindful if you have nut allergies when using walnuts—feel free to use sunflower seeds for crunch instead!

How can I ensure my salad doesn’t wilt before serving?
To keep your salad fresh and crunchy, always dress it just before serving. This prevents the greens from wilting and soaking up too much dressing. For make-ahead preparation, store components separately and combine them right before enjoying!