Brussel Sprouts Salad (Low Carb)

This Brussel Sprouts Salad is one of my favorite ways to serve Brussels sprouts during the fall and holiday season. The combination of shaved Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, blue cheese, and pecans creates a salad that's packed with texture and flavor without feeling heavy.

I've been creating low carb and healthy recipes since 2018, and this is one I come back to year after year. It's quick to make, easy to prep ahead, and always feels special enough for a holiday table.

You'll love this shaved Brussel sprouts salad because it's fresh, crunchy, naturally gluten-free, and packed with flavor. It's also a great low carb Brussel sprouts salad for anyone following a keto lifestyle while still wanting something festive for gatherings and family dinners.

The combination of crisp Brussels sprouts, smoky bacon, tangy blue cheese, and a slightly sweet apple cider vinaigrette makes this salad perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, potlucks, or everyday meals.

Things to Know

Before making this salad, here are a few helpful things to know:

• Using pre-shaved Brussels sprouts cuts prep time down to about 15 minutes.
• The salad is served cold, making it ideal for holiday meal prep.
• Raw shaved Brussels sprouts stay crisp and hold up better than many leafy green salads.
• Each serving is naturally low carb, keto friendly, and gluten-free.
• The dressing has a balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
• This salad can be partially prepared a day ahead and assembled before serving.
• Bacon, blue cheese, and pecans add enough flavor that a small amount of dressing goes a long way.

If you enjoy healthy holiday salads, be sure to try our Easy Curry Coleslaw (Low Carb), Low Carb Spinach Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing, and Keto Broccoli Salad (Low Carb, No Sugar).

Ingredient Notes

Shaved Brussels sprouts: The crunchy base of the salad. Pre-shaved Brussels sprouts save time, or you can thinly slice whole Brussels sprouts with a knife or food processor.

Bacon: Adds smoky flavor and crispy texture. Thick-cut bacon works especially well.

Blue cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy bite that pairs perfectly with the Brussels sprouts. Feta, goat cheese, parmesan, Havarti, brie, or white cheddar are all great substitutes.

Roasted pecans: Add crunch and nutty flavor. Walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds can be substituted.

Apple cider vinegar: Gives the vinaigrette its bright, tangy flavor. Red wine vinegar or champagne vinegar can also be used.

Extra virgin olive oil: Creates the base of the dressing and helps balance the vinegar. Avocado oil works well as a substitute.

Monk fruit or erythritol: Adds a touch of sweetness without extra sugar. Brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey can be used if you're not following a low carb diet.

Garlic: Adds savory depth to the vinaigrette. Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.

Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing while adding a subtle tangy flavor. Whole grain mustard can be used if preferred.

How to Make Brussel Sprouts Salad

This easy salad comes together in just a few simple steps.

1. Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sweetener, garlic, and Dijon mustard until smooth and fully combined.

2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts

If using whole Brussels sprouts, thinly slice them by hand or with a food processor. They should resemble fine ribbons when finished.

3. Assemble the salad

Add the shaved Brussels sprouts, bacon, blue cheese, and pecans to a large serving bowl.

4. Dress the salad

Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Garnish and serve

Top with additional blue cheese and pecans if desired. Serve immediately while the Brussels sprouts are crisp and fresh.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Buy pre-shaved Brussels sprouts to save time.
• Toast the pecans before adding them for extra flavor.
• Swap the blue cheese for feta if you prefer a milder taste.
• Add grilled chicken for a higher-protein lunch.
• Wait to add the dressing until serving for maximum crunch.
• Make the dressing up to 3 days ahead.
• Use walnuts or sunflower seeds instead of pecans.
• Add diced apple if you're not following a strict low carb diet.
• Double the dressing if serving the salad as a main dish.
• For a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese.

What to Serve With

This cold holiday salad pairs well with many Whole Lotta Yum dinner recipes.

Serve it alongside:

• Baked Turkey Breast Half
• Keto Baked Pork Chops (Low Carb, Gluten Free)
• Air Fryer Pork Steak
• Oven Roasted Chicken Breast
• Pan Seared Ribeye Steak

Storage & Meal Prep

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer Storage

This salad is not suitable for freezing because the raw Brussels sprouts and cheese will lose their texture.

Reheating

No reheating is needed. This salad is served cold.

Meal Prep Tips

Prepare the dressing, bacon, and chopped ingredients up to a day ahead. Store separately and toss together just before serving.

Recipe FAQ

Can you eat raw Brussels sprouts in a salad?

Yes. Raw Brussels sprouts are safe to eat and become tender when thinly shaved. They add a crisp texture that's perfect for salads.

Is shaved Brussel sprouts salad keto?

Yes. This shaved Brussel sprouts salad with bacon is naturally low carb and keto friendly when made with monk fruit or erythritol.

Can I make Brussel sprouts salad ahead of time?

Yes. The ingredients can be prepared up to one day ahead. For the best texture, add the dressing right before serving.

What cheese goes best with Brussels sprouts salad?

Blue cheese adds a bold, tangy flavor, but feta, goat cheese, parmesan, Havarti, brie, and white cheddar all work well.

How do you shave Brussels sprouts without a food processor?

Use a sharp knife to cut the Brussels sprouts into very thin slices. A mandoline slicer also works well.

This easy Brussel sprouts salad is a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy Brussels sprouts beyond the typical roasted side dish. Whether you're serving it for a holiday gathering or an everyday dinner, it's a simple recipe that's sure to become a favorite. If you make it, leave a rating, review, or comment below and let us know how it turned out!

More Low Carb Salad Recipes

• Easy Antipasto Salad (Keto Friendly Low Carb)
• Egg and Avocado Salad
• Creamy Egg Salad with Pickles
• Cold Shrimp Salad (Low Carb Keto)
• Easy Keto Cobb Salad Recipe
• Avocado Kale Salad (Low Carb Kale Salad)
• Tuna in Avocado Halves (Low Carb Tuna Salad)
• 25 Simple Low Carb Salads

If you loved our recipe, please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and leave us a comment too! Connect with us on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube!

Recipe