The holiday season often brings indulgent feasts, but Healthy Fall Salads are a refreshing way to balance the richness of classic dishes. A Fall Salad Brussel Sprouts Kale creation checks every box—it’s crisp, nourishing, and packed with seasonal flair. Perfect as one of your Thanksgiving Food Sides, this vibrant salad combines wholesome greens, sweet apples, and nutty crunch for a delightful contrast to heavier plates. In this guide, you’ll discover the story behind this recipe, learn step-by-step how to make it, explore creative twists, and get expert tips for showcasing it among your favorite Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes.
Why Fall Salad with Brussel Sprouts and Kale Belongs on Your Table
A Family Tradition Turned Healthy Fall Favorite
Every family has that pivotal year when a traditional recipe gets a fresh twist—and for ours, it was the Thanksgiving we swapped butter-laden casseroles for a bright bowl of Fall Salad Brussel Sprouts Kale. The air was cool, the table gleamed with autumn décor, and everyone longed for something lighter that still felt festive. That’s when the idea of transforming our heavy sides into Healthy Fall alternatives took shape.
After a few playful experiments, shaved Brussels sprouts and finely chopped kale became the stars. Tossed with tart apples, toasted pecans, and a maple–Dijon dressing, the salad cut through the richness of the turkey and gravy with its perfect balance of crunch and tang. It quickly became the centerpiece of our Healthy Thanksgiving spread, a refreshing reset for palates between helpings of stuffing and pie.
Swapping out cream-based sides for Healthy Fall Salads didn’t just lighten the meal—it brought new energy to the table. Guests returned for second servings, realizing that “healthy” doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or comfort. Since then, this salad has become one of our go-to Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes, reminding us that a Healthy Thanksgiving is as much about balance as it is about tradition.
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Fall Salad with Brussel Sprouts and Kale
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This vibrant fall salad combines shaved Brussels sprouts, massaged kale, crisp apples, dried cranberries and toasted nuts, all tossed in a tangy maple-Dijon dressing. It makes a refreshing and nutritious addition to any Thanksgiving spread.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Trim and shave Brussels sprouts into thin ribbons and place in a large bowl.
2. Remove kale stems and chop leaves into bite-sized pieces.
3. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over kale and massage for 2–3 minutes until tender.
4. In a jar or small bowl, whisk olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, lemon juice, salt and pepper until emulsified.
5. Add kale, Brussels sprouts, apple slices, cranberries and nuts to a salad bowl.
6. Pour dressing over salad and toss until evenly coated.
7. Top with goat cheese and pepitas just before serving, if desired.
8. Serve immediately or refrigerate components separately and toss before serving for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: toss
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 13
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 4
Keywords: fall salad, brussels sprouts salad, kale salad, thanksgiving side, healthy fall, maple dijon dressing, massaged kale, shaved sprouts, cranberry salad, nutty crunch
When the kitchen fills with the scent of roasted nuts and crisp apples meeting lemony kale, you know it’s truly the season of cozy gatherings and mindful enjoyment. This Healthy Fall favorite captures that spirit beautifully—translating the colors and textures of autumn into a dish that everyone talks about long after the leftovers are gone.
The Seasonal Charm of Kale and Brussels Sprouts
Kale and Brussels sprouts are, quite literally, the vegetables of the season—available at their peak during fall when the weather cools and their flavors sweeten. Their sturdy leaves and hearty texture make them ideal for Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes because they hold up beautifully under dressings and don’t wilt easily, whether the salad is served fresh or prepared ahead of time.
Nutritionally, these greens are powerhouses. Kale is high in fiber, iron, and antioxidants, while Brussels sprouts boast vitamin C and a satisfying crunch that keeps each bite exciting. Together, they create a dynamic foundation for the ultimate Kale Apple Salad, one that’s as nourishing as it is pretty on the plate.
What truly sets this salad apart among Thanksgiving Food Sides is its flavor profile—a vibrant mix of earthy, sweet, and tangy. The slight bitterness of kale balances the caramelized depth of the shaved sprouts. Add crisp apple slices, dried cranberries, and a drizzle of balsamic-maple dressing, and you get a harmony of fall flavors that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light.
Beyond taste and nutrition, kale and Brussels sprouts carry a story of seasonality. They remind us to eat in rhythm with what the earth offers during Healthy Fall months—sturdy greens that stand up to chilly weather, energizing us as the days grow shorter. Whether served as a stand-alone Kale Apple Salad or paired with roasted turkey or grain-based dishes, it’s a vibrant reminder that Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes can be both festive and full of life.
So this year, as you plan your Thanksgiving Food Sides, consider this humble yet elegant pairing. Kale and Brussels sprouts don’t just accompany the meal—they round it out, bringing color, texture, and wellness to every bite.
How to Make the Perfect Fall Salad with Brussels Sprouts and Kale
Ingredients You’ll Need for a Healthy Fall Salad
The charm of a Fall Salad Brussel Sprouts Kale dish lies in how easily wholesome ingredients come together to create texture, color, and flavor that feel seasonally right. Below are the essentials for building your own vibrant Kale Apple Salad—a cornerstone among Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes that’s both nutrient-rich and crowd-pleasing.
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 4 cups chopped kale (lacinato or curly)
- 1 large crisp apple, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- Juice of one lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Goat cheese crumbles
- Roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- Parmesan shavings
This salad is easily vegan if you skip the cheese and naturally gluten-free. For nut-free diets, use sunflower seeds or extra pepitas. Versatility makes it a standout among Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes.
Step-by-Step: Preparing Your Fall Salad Brussel Sprouts Kale Recipe
- Prep the greens: Trim the Brussels sprouts, remove outer leaves, then shave thin. Chop kale leaves into bite-sized pieces, discarding tough stems.
- Massage the kale: Add a drizzle of olive oil and massage with your fingers for 2–3 minutes to tenderize and deepen flavor.
- Assemble the dressing: Whisk all dressing ingredients until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Combine and toss: Add shaved sprouts, kale, apples, cranberries, and nuts. Pour dressing and toss well. Top with cheese or pepitas before serving.
- Pro tips: Add zest or balsamic for brightness; prepare greens a day ahead; refrigerate leftovers up to two days.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mandoline or sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or small jar
This simple method ensures your Healthy Fall Salad shines on the table—vibrant ribbons of greens with ruby cranberries and golden nuts, the perfect refreshment among rich Thanksgiving Food Sides.
Nutrition Facts per Serving (Estimated)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Total Fat | 13 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
Every variation of this Fall Salad Brussel Sprouts Kale keeps flavor high and nutrients balanced—perfect for a Healthy Thanksgiving.
Creative Fall Variations – New Ways to Serve Your Healthy Thanksgiving Salad
Add Protein with Seasonal Kebabs or Grilled Toppings
Elevate your Fall Salad Brussel Sprouts Kale with lean proteins. Pairing it with Kebabs or grilled toppings turns a side into a hearty meal. During Healthy Thanksgiving gatherings, marinated turkey or chicken skewers glazed with maple–herb sauce blend beautifully with the salad’s green, tangy profile. The smoky-grilled notes play perfectly against crisp sprouts and kale.
Vegetarians can enjoy the same warmth using halloumi cubes or colorful roasted vegetable Kebabs. For a plant-based version, balsamic-marinated tofu or tempeh adds savory weight and keeps it a Healthy Fall Salad. These additions make the dish flexible enough for family dinners, Friendsgiving feasts, or everyday comfort.
Other Fun Twists on Classic Healthy Fall Salads
Healthy Fall Salads are endlessly adaptable. Once you master the essentials, customize for your taste. Add roasted sweet potatoes for caramelized sweetness or quinoa for heartiness and protein. Swap apples with juicy orange segments to add brightness and top it all with a cranberry vinaigrette to elevate holiday color.
For a creamier spin, use tahini-lemon or Greek yogurt dressing—still light but rich enough for late-autumn cravings. Each tweak keeps it aligned with Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes, showcasing fall’s best textures and flavors. Whether sweet, earthy, or citrusy, every combination ensures your Fall Salad Brussel Sprouts Kale remains vibrant and memorable among favorite Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes.
FAQs & Your Healthy Thanksgiving Menu Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prep this salad a day ahead of Thanksgiving?
Absolutely. This Fall Salad Brussel Sprouts Kale stays crisp when stored correctly. Keep greens and dressing separate in airtight containers and combine just before serving. Add apples and nuts last for peak freshness.
2. What’s the best dressing for kale and Brussels sprouts?
A balance of tangy, sweet, and rich elements works best—olive oil, Dijon, maple syrup, and lemon juice. This mix gives your Kale Apple Salad its signature bright flavor, while a hint of balsamic or cider vinegar enhances fall depth.
3. How can I make it vegan or dairy-free?
Skip the goat cheese and opt for roasted pepitas or sunflower seeds. The base ingredients already align with Healthy Fall Salads. Just confirm your condiments are vegan-certified for a fully plant-based version.
4. What protein pairs best with this salad?
Try grilled turkey Kebabs, chicken, or tofu for harmony with the salad’s texture. Each option enhances your Healthy Thanksgiving spread without overpowering it.
5. Can it be served warm or cold?
Traditionally served chilled, but it’s great warm too. Lightly sauté shaved sprouts and kale for a cozy texture that fits alongside your Thanksgiving Food Sides.
Healthy Fall Meals Worth Every Bite
This Fall Salad Brussel Sprouts Kale is a stunning, nourishing addition to your holiday menu. It unites earthy greens, crisp apples, and nutty crunch in a tangy maple-mustard dressing. Among your best-loved Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes, it brings a lively break from heavier fare and a reminder that mindful eating still sparks joy.
Serve it beside turkey, grilled Kebabs, or as a meal on its own, and watch how guests reach for seconds. A celebration of Healthy Fall freshness, this colorful bowl proves that wellness and bold flavor can share the same plate. May your next Healthy Thanksgiving be filled with nourishment, warmth, and salad that truly steals the show.
