Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pomegranate Bliss

Name: Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pomegranate Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded Brussels sprouts; 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup pomegranate seeds; 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on December 3, 2025

Posted by Georgina sami

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pomegranate*! It’s one of those dishes that just screams freshness and crunch with every bite. Seriously, the combination of crispy bacon and sweet, juicy pomegranate seeds tossed with those lovely, shredded Brussels sprouts is an explosion of flavor that you won’t forget. Plus, it’s not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients! You’ve got your greens, healthy fats from the olive oil, and a little protein from the bacon and almonds. Talk about a win-win!

I absolutely love making this salad for family gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a fun way to get everyone to eat their greens without them even realizing it! I still remember the first time I brought it to a potluck—everyone was raving about it, and I felt like a rockstar in the kitchen! So, let’s dive into this refreshing salad that’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes!

Ingredients

4 cups shredded Brussels sprouts: I love using fresh Brussels sprouts for that perfect crunch, just shred them thinly so they toss well with the other ingredients!
6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon: Go for crispy bacon here! It adds that amazing savory flavor that pairs so beautifully with the sweet pomegranate.
1 cup pomegranate seeds: These little gems are not just pretty, they bring a burst of sweetness and a lovely pop to each bite!
1/2 cup sliced almonds: I prefer using sliced almonds for that nice nutty crunch. Feel free to toast them for an extra layer of flavor!
1/4 cup olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for the dressing—it adds richness without overpowering the other flavors.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the pomegranate. Trust me, it’s a must!
1 tablespoon honey: Adjust this to your taste! Just a touch of honey makes the dressing beautifully sweet.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! A little salt and fresh cracked pepper really brings all the flavors together.

How to Prepare the Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pomegranate

Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making this gorgeous salad! I promise it’s super simple and comes together in no time. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll be serving up a bowl of deliciousness in about 25 minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab a large bowl and toss in those shredded Brussels sprouts. Go ahead and give them a little fluff with your hands; this helps them mix better later!
Next, add in the crumbled bacon and pomegranate seeds. You want to make sure those bright red seeds are evenly distributed throughout the sprouts to pack every bite with flavor.
Now, let’s make the dressing! In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. I like to taste it as I go—feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking!
Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the salad mixture. This is where the magic happens! Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure all the ingredients are coated in that delicious dressing.
For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the sprouts a chance to soak up the dressing a bit, and it really enhances the flavors!
Finally, give it one last toss before serving. You can serve it immediately for that fresh crunch, or if you’re prepping ahead, cover it and pop it in the fridge for up to an hour. Just remember to toss again before serving to revive those flavors!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up this delightful salad, here are some of my top tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will take your *Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pomegranate* to the next level!

Fresh is Best: Always choose fresh Brussels sprouts! They should be bright green and firm. If you can, buy them on the stalk for maximum freshness. Just shred them right before you’re ready to use them to keep that crunch!
Cook the Bacon Right: For that perfect crispy bacon, bake it in the oven! Just lay it on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. It’s easier, less messy, and you’ll get even, crispy pieces every time!
Dress It Just Before Serving: If you’re making this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will prevent the Brussels sprouts from getting soggy and losing that lovely crunch.
Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to play around with the honey in the dressing. If you like it sweeter, add a little more. If you prefer it tangier, simply increase the apple cider vinegar! Tailor it to your taste!
Add a Little Heat: If you want to spice things up a bit, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. It adds a lovely warmth that complements the sweetness of the pomegranate beautifully!
Mix Up the Nuts: While I adore sliced almonds, you can swap them for walnuts or pecans if you prefer! Toasting the nuts beforehand will boost their flavor and add that extra crunch!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this vibrant salad. Enjoy every crunchy, savory, and sweet bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness packed into this *Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pomegranate*! This salad is not just a feast for your taste buds, but it’s also pretty friendly on the waistline. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 250
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 8g

These values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, especially the type of bacon and olive oil, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re munching on. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein, this salad is a guilt-free delight that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of crunchy Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and sweet pomegranate seeds creates a taste sensation that’s hard to beat!
Nutritious Delight: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is as good for you as it is delicious. It’s a great way to sneak in those greens!
Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a BBQ, a potluck, or even as a light lunch, this salad fits right in anywhere!
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep everything beforehand and just add the dressing right before serving, making it super convenient!
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients—add some avocado, swap the nuts, or toss in other fruits. The possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and satisfying crunch, this salad is sure to impress family and friends, making you the star of any meal!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize your *Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pomegranate*! Here are some of my favorite variations that’ll keep your taste buds excited:

Nuts Galore: While I love sliced almonds, you can easily swap them for walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings a unique flavor and crunch to the salad!
Fruit Fiesta: Add some diced apples or sliced pears for an extra layer of sweetness and crunch. You could also toss in some mandarin oranges for a citrusy twist!
Add Some Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can bring a creamy element that pairs beautifully with the crunchy sprouts and sweet pomegranate. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Herb it Up: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro can add a refreshing burst of flavor. Just sprinkle them in before serving for that herbaceous lift!
Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the dressing for a spicy contrast to the sweet pomegranate.
Dress it Differently: Experiment with different dressings! A lemon-tahini dressing or a creamy ranch can completely transform the flavor profile while still being delicious!
Grains Galore: For a heartier salad, toss in some cooked quinoa or farro. This not only makes it more filling but adds a lovely texture as well!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. The beauty of this salad is its versatility, so have fun with it!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this fabulous *Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pomegranate*, you might be wondering what to serve it with. Trust me, this salad is super versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some of my favorite complementary options that will elevate your meal and make your taste buds dance!

Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs and spices is a perfect match! The lightness of the chicken complements the crunchy salad beautifully.
Seared Salmon: The rich, buttery flavor of seared salmon pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the salad, creating a balanced and delicious meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve it alongside a platter of roasted seasonal vegetables. The sweetness of the roasted veggies plays nicely with the tartness of the pomegranate.
Quinoa Bowl: Create a wholesome grain bowl by adding cooked quinoa or farro. This makes for a filling and nutritious meal that’s still light and refreshing.
Sandwiches or Wraps: Enjoy this salad as a side with your favorite sandwiches or wraps. It’s a great way to add some crunch and flavor to your lunch!
Charcuterie Board: Incorporate this salad into a charcuterie spread! It adds a vibrant touch alongside meats, cheeses, and crackers, making your board pop with color and flavor.
Pasta Dishes: This salad is a lovely contrast to creamy pasta dishes. Think fettuccine Alfredo or a rich carbonara—your guests will love the mix of textures!

Feel free to get creative! This salad can stand on its own as a light lunch, but it also shines as a side dish. Pair it with any of these options for a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy. Bon appétit!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to keep your *Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pomegranate* fresh and delicious for later! I know it’s tempting to just dig in and finish it all at once, but if you do find yourself with leftovers, here’s how to store them properly.

First things first, if you have any salad left after serving, make sure to store it in an airtight container. This keeps the salad crisp and prevents any unwanted odors from seeping in. If you’ve dressed the salad already, the Brussels sprouts might start to lose their crunch, so it’s best to keep the dressing separate if you can! Just toss it together right before you’re ready to enjoy it again.

You can store the salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. After that, the sprouts may start to wilt, and while it’ll still be edible, it won’t have that lovely crunch we all love. If you’ve kept the dressing separate, you can expect your salad to stay fresh for those 2 days without losing its charm!

Now, when it comes to reheating, I actually suggest enjoying this salad cold or at room temperature. The flavors meld beautifully when it sits for a bit, and the freshness of the ingredients really shines through! But if you’re set on warming it up, you can gently sauté it in a skillet over medium heat for just a minute or two—just be careful not to overcook the Brussels sprouts. You want them to stay bright and vibrant!

So, there you have it! With these simple storage tips, you can savor your delicious salad for a couple of days, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for busy meals or quick lunches. Enjoy every last bite!