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If you’re craving a salad that feels both comforting and fresh, let me introduce you to the Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe. This dish elevates the classic Caesar salad by swapping out the usual romaine for tender, golden-roasted Brussels sprouts that bring a delightful earthiness and crisp texture. Tossed in a creamy, garlicky Caesar dressing and finished with crunchy breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this salad is a crowd-pleaser sure to brighten up any meal. Perfect as a hearty side or even a light main, the Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe is one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is what makes this Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe truly shine. Each one plays an essential role: Brussels sprouts bring that satisfying bite, olive oil helps achieve that perfect roast, and the dressing ingredients combine to create the iconic Caesar flavor with a fresh twist.
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: The star of the show—roasting these brings out their natural sweetness and crisp edges.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the Brussels sprouts roast beautifully, giving them a golden, crispy finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth that Caesar salads are known for.
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade): The creamy, garlicky coating that ties everything together.
- 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs or croutons: For a delightful crunchy contrast that makes every bite interesting.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Provides a bright, zesty pop to balance the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that signature savory punch.
- Optional: crispy bacon or pancetta: Adds smoky flavor and a satisfying crisp bite.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of homemade Caesar dressing.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dressing and lifts the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami depth and a little savory surprise.
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that bold Caesar character.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Reinforces the cheesy goodness in the dressing.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To perfect and balance every bite.
How to Make Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to roast the Brussels sprouts just right—crispy on the outside and tender inside. Timing and heat are key for that ideal texture, so don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Toss your halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spreading them evenly on a baking sheet ensures each piece gets beautifully roasted. Pop them in the oven to roast for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through so they brown evenly and develop those irresistible crispy edges.
Step 3: Prepare the Caesar Dressing (if making homemade)
If you’re opting for homemade dressing (which I highly recommend!), mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. This creamy dressing is what makes the Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe so irresistible, providing that classic Caesar flavor with a fresh, garlicky kick.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
While the Brussels sprouts are still warm, transfer them to a large bowl. Drizzle your Caesar dressing over the top and toss gently to coat every delicious bit. The warmth helps the dressing cling to each sprout, creating a luscious, flavorful salad.
Step 5: Add Toppings
To finish the salad, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or croutons for extra crunch and a little extra Parmesan cheese for flavor depth. If you love a smoky, savory note, crisp up some bacon or pancetta and scatter it on top — it’s optional but absolutely worth it!
Step 6: Serve Immediately
For the best experience, serve this salad straight away while the Brussels sprouts still have their warm, tender-crisp texture. This is where the Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe truly sings!
How to Serve Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or an extra handful of Parmesan shavings can take this salad to the next level. For a pop of color, add some thinly sliced radishes or a few fresh herbs like parsley or chives. These small touches add a vibrant, fresh finish that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the Brussels sprouts.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Think grilled chicken, seared salmon, or even a savory pasta dish. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to richer meals like roast beef or pork chops, balancing out heavier flavors with crispness and tangy brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Serve the Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe in a rustic wooden bowl or stack it prettily on large plates. Adding edible flowers or a drizzle of balsamic reduction can make it visually stunning. You can even serve it as a stylish starter or part of a shareable platter with other roasted vegetables and dips.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the Brussels sprouts are roasted and coated in dressing, the salad will keep well for up to 2 days. Just be mindful that the crumbs or croutons might lose their crunch after a day.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended since the texture of roasted Brussels sprouts and the creamy dressing won’t hold up well after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day or two stored in the fridge.
Reheating
If you want to revive the leftovers, gently warm the Brussels sprouts in a skillet over low heat to bring back some crispness, but avoid microwaving as it can make the salad soggy. Add fresh breadcrumbs or croutons before serving to regain that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing for this recipe?
Absolutely! While homemade dressing adds a personal touch and extra flavor, a good-quality store-bought Caesar dressing works perfectly. Just pick one you love since it’s the star sauce of this salad.
What if I’m not a fan of Brussels sprouts?
Roasting transforms Brussels sprouts and reduces their bitterness, giving them a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. If you’re new to Brussels sprouts, this Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe might just win you over!
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast and use a vegan mayo-based Caesar dressing. Skip bacon and use plant-based croutons to keep all the delightful textures and flavors.
Is it okay to prepare the Brussels sprouts in advance?
You can roast the sprouts in advance and refrigerate them, but toss with the dressing just before serving to preserve their texture and flavor integrity.
How can I add more protein to this salad?
Add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for a protein boost. The smoky bacon option mentioned also adds protein and savory satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
This Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe is truly a game-changer when it comes to elevating your everyday salads. Easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with texture, it’s one of my absolute favorites to prepare anytime I want a meal that feels both comforting and fresh. Give it a try—you might find it becoming a fast favorite in your family too!
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Warm Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
A warm and flavorful Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad featuring oven-roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a creamy homemade Caesar dressing, topped with toasted breadcrumbs or croutons, Parmesan cheese, and optional crispy bacon or pancetta for an extra savory touch. This easy-to-make salad combines roasted vegetable goodness with classic Caesar flavors, perfect as a side dish or light main course.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts and Toppings
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs or croutons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: crispy bacon or pancetta for extra flavor
Caesar Dressing (Homemade)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the Brussels sprouts.
- Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even roasting until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Prepare the Caesar Dressing (if making homemade): In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste and mix until smooth.
- Assemble the Salad: Transfer the warm roasted Brussels sprouts to a large bowl. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the sprouts while still warm and toss well to coat evenly with the dressing.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or croutons and extra grated Parmesan cheese over the salad. Add crispy bacon or pancetta if desired for an additional burst of flavor.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the best combination of warm, crispy textures and creamy dressing.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or pancetta.
- The salad is best served warm to enjoy the contrast between the roasted sprouts and creamy dressing.
- You can use store-bought Caesar dressing to save time if preferred.
- To make breadcrumbs, toast day-old bread crumbs in a skillet with a bit of olive oil until crispy.
- Adding lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the creaminess of the dressing.
