Brunch Time Brussel Sprout Salad

It's brunch time.

I hated Brussel Sprouts growing up but my Dad loved them, boiled. I used to sit at the kitchen table watching the short-hand go around on the clock on the wall.  Somehow I thought I would be able to wait it out and the stubborn child that I was would win.  Instead, I end up eating cold boiled Brussel Sprouts and I also missed my favourite TV show.

Fast forward and I think I figured out how to enjoy Brussel Sprouts.  I now savor a sweet and salty Brussel Sprout Salad and serve it to my boys.  I am happy to report that it is enjoyed by all.  Here are the simple steps.

Maple Mustard Dressing Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• Sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Salad Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts ends trimmed
• 1-2 heads of romaine lettuce
• 1 large Honeycrisp or Fuji apple chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/3 cup shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese
• Sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• /2 cup Shredded Chicken is optional

Instructions

First, combine the ingredients for the maple mustard dressing in a small mixing bowl. Using a whisk the mixture adding both sea salt and pepper to your liking. Set aside the dressing to move on to the salad.

Next, shave the brussels sprouts with a food processor, mandoline, or cut thinly with a knife. Also, cut romaine lettuce thinly across the short side. Lastly, chop apples into small cubes.

Place both the brussel sprouts and chopped lettuce in a salad spinner and wash and dry with cold water.

Once the lettuce and brussel sprouts are dried, combine them in a large bowl with the chopped apple, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and Parmesan cheese.

If creating a Chicken salad, add the chicken to the bowl now, lightly tossing it in. Or, top the salad with shredded chicken after it has been dressed.

Finally, dress the salad with the maple dressing that you set aside and toss well.

Enjoy!