I absolutely fell in love with this Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Recipe the first time I made it. I was craving something crunchy, creamy, and satisfying all at once. This recipe gave me exactly that balance.
The mix of roasted sprouts, fresh ribbons, and classic Caesar dressing is irresistible. Every time I serve it, everyone asks for the recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 lb Brussels sprouts – Fresh sprouts give the best texture; avoid pre-shredded for maximum crunch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps the sprouts roast evenly and caramelize beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the natural sweetness.
- 3 cups homemade croutons – Adds essential crunch; toast them well for extra flavor.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base for the dressing.
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Always grate fresh for better taste and texture.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dressing and balances richness.
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste – Gives classic Caesar depth and savory flavor.
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds subtle tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
- 1 small garlic clove, minced – Fresh garlic gives bold flavor.
- Pinch of black pepper – Adds gentle heat.
Note: Serves 4 people generously as a side dish or light main course.
Variations
- Make it vegetarian by replacing anchovy paste with capers.
- For dairy-free, use vegan mayo and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Mix in toasted nuts or seeds for additional crunch.
- Use gluten-free croutons if needed.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Baking sheet – For roasting the Brussels sprouts evenly.
- Sharp knife – To slice sprouts thinly for the salad.
- Cutting board – Safe surface for prep work.
- Mixing bowls – For tossing ingredients and mixing dressing.
- Whisk or fork – To blend the Caesar dressing smoothly.
- Oven – For roasting the sprouts to golden perfection.
How to Make Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Recipe
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your oven and prepare a baking sheet. Toss half of the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and salt. Spread them evenly on the sheet and roast until golden and tender. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds delicious crisp edges.
Slice the Remaining Sprouts
While the sprouts roast, thinly slice the remaining raw Brussels sprouts. This creates a fresh, crunchy base for the salad. The combination of roasted and raw textures makes the dish more interesting and balanced.
Prepare the Caesar Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed to ensure bold flavor.
Assemble the Salad
Combine the roasted sprouts, shaved sprouts, and croutons in a large bowl. Add the dressing gradually and toss gently until evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
- I always toast my croutons slightly extra for maximum crunch.
- I like adding a little extra lemon juice for brightness.
- If the dressing feels thick, I thin it with a teaspoon of water.
- I avoid over-dressing the salad so it stays crisp.
- Serving it immediately keeps the textures at their best.
How to Serve Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Serve this salad in a wide bowl so the textures stand out. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh black pepper. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, salmon, or roasted vegetables. For presentation, add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze before eating.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate):
- Calories: ~275 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fat: 10 g
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
You can roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the dressing ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving for best freshness.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing because the texture changes. However, the dressing can be frozen separately for up to one month.
Reheating
If needed, reheat roasted sprouts in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispness. Always add the dressing after reheating to maintain freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is flavorful, simple, and satisfying.
- Easy to prepare – Uses simple ingredients and basic cooking steps.
- Perfect balance of textures – Crispy, creamy, fresh, and savory in every bite.
- Customizable – Works with vegetarian, dairy-free, or protein additions.
- Great for gatherings – Looks impressive and tastes amazing.
- Healthy yet hearty – A nutritious way to enjoy Brussels sprouts.