Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Slaw Simple and Fresh

Are you ready to elevate your side dish game? This Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Slaw is simple, fresh, and full of flavor. With just a few crisp ingredients and a tangy dressing, you can create a crunchy delight that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a casual lunch, this slaw is sure to impress. Let’s dive into making this tasty dish!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 1 pound Brussels sprouts

- 1 medium carrot

- 1/2 cup red cabbage

- 1/4 cup green onions

- 1/4 cup almonds

Dressing Ingredients

- 2 tablespoons honey

- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- Salt and pepper

I love using fresh ingredients for this slaw. The Brussels sprouts are the star here. Choose firm, bright green sprouts. Trim the ends and slice them thinly for a nice crunch.

Next, grab a medium carrot. Julienning it adds color and sweetness. The red cabbage adds a vibrant look and a slight crunch. Chop the green onions for a fresh taste.

Don’t forget the almonds! Sliced and toasted, they give a nutty flavor and extra crunch.

For the dressing, I mix honey and Dijon mustard. This combo is sweet and tangy. Apple cider vinegar adds a zesty touch. A drizzle of olive oil brings it all together.

Finally, season with salt and pepper. Adjust to your taste. This slaw is fresh, simple, and oh-so-delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

Start by cleaning the Brussels sprouts. Remove any brown leaves. Trim the ends and slice them thinly. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices. This step helps the sprouts soften while keeping their crunch.

Next, take your carrot and julienne it. Cut it into thin strips. This adds a nice color and sweetness to the slaw.

Now, shred the red cabbage. Use a sharp knife to slice it into thin pieces. The cabbage adds a lovely crunch and beautiful color to the dish.

Making the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. Mix until smooth and well combined. This dressing gives the slaw its sweet and tangy flavor.

Add salt and pepper to taste. This simple seasoning elevates the dressing, making it even more delicious.

Combining the Ingredients

Take your large bowl with the sliced Brussels sprouts, julienned carrot, shredded red cabbage, and chopped green onions. Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the vegetables. Toss everything until the vegetables are well coated.

Let the slaw rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and softens the Brussels sprouts slightly. It keeps their crunch while enhancing the taste.

Just before serving, sprinkle toasted almond slices on top. This adds extra texture and a nutty flavor that makes the slaw even better.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cutting Brussels Sprouts

Using a mandoline helps you slice Brussels sprouts evenly. It gives a nice look and texture. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp knife works well too. To prevent browning, keep your sliced sprouts in cold water with lemon juice. This keeps them fresh and bright.

Enhancing Flavor

You can try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. Let your slaw marinate for at least 10 minutes. This time allows the flavors to mix well and makes the sprouts tender yet crunchy.

Serving Suggestions

For a great presentation, serve your slaw in a colorful bowl. Top it with extra almond slices and a drizzle of honey. This makes it look fancy! Pair your slaw with grilled chicken or fish. It also goes well with a hearty sandwich or wraps.

Variations

Add-ins for Extra Crunch

You can make your slaw even more exciting by adding nuts or seeds. Consider using:

- Walnuts for a rich flavor

- Pecans for sweetness

- Pumpkin seeds for a fun crunch

You can also mix in other veggies. Shredded carrots add color and sweetness. Thinly sliced radishes give a spicy bite. Try adding some celery for a refreshing crunch.

Changing the Dressing

If you want to switch things up, try different dressings. You can use maple syrup instead of honey. For a tangy kick, add lime juice.

Feeling bold? Spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes. This adds a fun heat to the dish that many will enjoy.

Catering to Dietary Preferences

Want a gluten-free option? Just make sure your mustard is gluten-free. Most brands are, but it's good to check.

For a vegan version, swap honey with agave syrup. This keeps the sweet flavor while making it plant-based. You can also use a vegan mayo in your dressing for a creamy twist.

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

To keep your Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Slaw fresh, use an airtight container. Glass containers work best. They do not absorb odors and can be reused. When storing, press out as much air as possible. This helps slow down spoilage. Always store in the refrigerator to keep it crisp and fresh.

Shelf Life

Your slaw can last in the fridge for about three days. After that, the veggies may lose their crunch. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. However, freezing can change the texture, making it softer. I recommend only freezing the slaw if you plan to use it in cooked dishes later.

Reheating Tips

If you want to reheat the slaw, do it gently. Use a skillet on low heat for a few minutes. This way, you keep some crunch. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the slaw soggy. Serve the slaw fresh, even after storage, for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I make Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this slaw ahead of time. To prepare in advance, follow these steps:

- Make the slaw without adding the dressing.

- Store the vegetables in an airtight container.

- Keep the dressing in a separate jar.

- When you are ready to serve, mix the dressing with the slaw. This keeps the vegetables fresh and crunchy.

What can I substitute for honey?

You can use several alternatives for honey. Here are a few options:

- Maple syrup adds sweetness with a hint of flavor.

- Agave nectar is a good choice for a milder taste.

- Brown sugar dissolved in a bit of warm water works well too.

Each sweetener may change the taste slightly, but they all work nicely.

How can I make this recipe taste less bitter?

Brussels sprouts can be bitter if not prepared right. Here are some tips:

- Slice the Brussels sprouts thinly to help them cook evenly.

- Use a touch more honey or sweetener in the dressing.

- Add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

- Allow the slaw to sit for a while before serving. This helps flavors blend and reduces bitterness.

This post covered how to make a delicious Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Slaw. We explored the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, useful tips, and tasty variations. You learned how to prepare the veggies, create a flavorful dressing, and combine everything for a perfect dish. Remember, the key is fresh ingredients and proper storage. With some creativity, you can easily adapt the recipe to fit your taste. Enjoy this bright, crunchy slaw at your next meal!