If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, fresh, and delicious side dish that feels both comforting and exciting, this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It brings together the crisp, slightly bitter charm of Brussels sprouts with a luscious, zesty dressing that’s perfectly balanced by sweet and tangy notes from fresh citrus and a touch of honey. Throw in crunchy pumpkin seeds and chewy dried cranberries for an unforgettable texture contrast, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s as visually stunning as it is tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe, you’ll want some simple but star-quality ingredients. Each one plays its unique part—from the fresh Brussels sprouts that form the crunchy base, to the tangy Dijon mustard and citrus juices that wake up every bite. These ingredients combine to create layers of flavor and texture that make this dish utterly addictive.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, sliced and then roughly chopped: The heart of the dish offering crisp, green crunch and a wonderful nutty flavor.
- ½ cup small diced red onion: Adds a sharp bite and vibrant purple contrast that livens up the slaw.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy, luscious dressing that binds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Brings richness and helps mellow the acidity of the citrus.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Provides bright, zesty notes for a lively flavor lift.
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Offers natural sweetness and a juicy burst that complements the sprouts.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the tang and bitterness with a smooth sweetness.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan: Adds savory umami richness and a tender melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- ½ cup dried cranberries or cherries (optional): Introduces bursts of chewy sweetness and a pretty pop of color.
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds (optional): Offers a satisfying crunch and subtle nuttiness to finish the dish.
How to Make Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by washing and drying your Brussels sprouts, then slice them thinly and roughly chop the slices into bite-sized pieces. This prep ensures the slaw has just the right texture—not too chunky, but with enough substance to give that satisfying crunch you want in every forkful.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, honey, diced red onion, salt, and pepper. Take your time to blend these ingredients thoroughly until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and beautifully balanced between tangy, sweet, and savory notes. This dressing is truly the heart of the dish, so make sure it’s well mixed!
Step 3: Dress the Slaw
Pour the dressing over your prepared Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, so every piece gets a good coating. Letting the sprouts mingle with the dressing for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld and the sprouts to soften slightly without losing their crunch.
Step 4: Add Toppings & Combine
Now it’s time to bring in some exciting textures and flavors. Sprinkle in the finely grated Parmesan, dried cranberries or cherries if you’re using them, and pumpkin seeds. Toss everything once more to distribute these toppings evenly, adding delightful pockets of sweetness, savory depth, and crunch throughout your slaw.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer your gorgeous creamy Brussels sprouts slaw to a serving bowl. It’s best enjoyed immediately for the crispest texture, but you can also refrigerate it for a chilled, refreshing option later on. Either way, it’s sure to brighten your table.
How to Serve Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe to the next level, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds on top. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a fresh green color and a mild, herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing.
Side Dishes
This slaw is a star on its own but also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted pork tenderloin, or even alongside fish tacos. Its bright, tangy creaminess complements smoky or spicy main dishes perfectly and can be a refreshing contrast to heavier, rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe in individual mason jars for a cute and portable presentation, or pile it high in a rustic wooden bowl to showcase those vibrant colors. You can also use it as a crunchy topping for sandwiches or burgers, giving a healthy twist packed with flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the pumpkin seeds may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will remain wonderfully vibrant.
Freezing
This slaw is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the delicate texture of the Brussels sprouts and the creamy dressing, which can separate upon thawing. For the best experience, prepare it fresh or store leftovers in the fridge.
Reheating
Since this is a cold, fresh slaw, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Instead, simply give it a gentle stir before serving chilled again to refresh the texture and flavors.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts for this slaw?
Absolutely! Pre-shredded Brussels sprouts can save time, just be sure they are fresh and not overly wet. Give them a quick pat dry if needed before mixing with the dressing to keep your slaw crisp and creamy.
Is there a dairy-free option for the Parmesan in this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe?
You can definitely skip the Parmesan or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative or toasted nutritional yeast to maintain that savory, cheesy hint without dairy.
Can I make this slaw vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based version and omit the Parmesan or use vegan cheese. The flavor will remain bright and creamy with these swaps.
What can I use instead of pumpkin seeds if I have a nut allergy?
If you’re avoiding nuts and seeds, consider adding crispy fried shallots or roasted chickpeas for a crunchy texture that plays well with the rest of the slaw.
How long should I let the slaw sit before serving?
It’s best to toss and serve relatively soon after dressing to keep the Brussels sprouts crisp, but letting it rest for 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to blend beautifully without sacrificing texture.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels fresh, nutritious, and a little indulgent all at once. Its bright, creamy, and crunchy qualities make it a standout side that’s sure to bring smiles around your table. Plus, it’s so quick to throw together—you might find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Brussels Sprouts Slaw is a quick and refreshing side dish featuring thinly sliced and chopped Brussels sprouts tossed in a tangy and creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh citrus juices. Enhanced with red onion, Parmesan cheese, and optional dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds, this slaw offers a perfect balance of crunchy textures and vibrant flavors ideal for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, sliced and then roughly chopped
- ½ cup small diced red onion
Dressing
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings (Optional)
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries or cherries
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Place the sliced and roughly chopped Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl, ensuring that the pieces are bite-sized to provide a pleasant texture in the slaw.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or container, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, honey, diced red onion, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy with all ingredients well blended.
- Dress the Slaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the Brussels sprouts in the large mixing bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat all the Brussels sprouts evenly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Add Toppings & Combine: Add the finely grated Parmesan cheese, dried cranberries or cherries (if using), and pumpkin seeds (if using) into the bowl. Toss once more until the toppings are evenly distributed throughout the slaw.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy Brussels sprouts slaw to a serving bowl. Serve immediately for a fresh, crisp texture or refrigerate until ready to eat if you prefer chilled slaw.
Notes
- This slaw can be made a few hours in advance and chilled to allow the flavors to meld even more.
- For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise and omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Add nuts like toasted almonds or walnuts for extra crunch if desired.
- Adjust the honey and citrus juices to balance sweetness and acidity to your taste preference.
- Ensure Brussels sprouts are finely sliced to avoid tough, chewy bites.
