There’s something irresistibly fresh about the crisp snap of shaved Brussels sprouts, especially when paired with creamy chickpeas and a zesty lemon tahini dressing. One afternoon, craving something vibrant yet satisfying, I whipped up this salad that quickly became a household favorite. It’s the perfect balance of crunchy, tangy, and nutty flavors—all coming together in a dish that feels both light and hearty. Whether you’re tired of the usual fast food routine or looking to impress guests with a simple yet elegant side, this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Chickpeas and Lemon Tahini Dressing is an easy way to elevate your meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will be on regular rotation!
Why love Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad?
Freshness that shines: The crisp, thinly shaved Brussels sprouts deliver an unbeatable crunch. Protein-packed chickpeas add a satisfying, hearty touch, making this salad perfect as a side or light main. Zesty lemon tahini dressing brings bright, nutty flavors that tie everything together effortlessly. Quick and easy to prepare, it saves you time without skimping on taste. Plus, it’s a nutritious, vibrant dish that breaks the fast food monotony with every bite!
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Ingredients
For the Salad Base
- Brussels sprouts – shaved thin for the perfect crisp texture that defines this salad.
- Chickpeas – canned or cooked, adding creamy protein to keep you full and satisfied.
- Red onion – thinly sliced to introduce a mild, tangy zip that complements the sprouts.
For the Lemon Tahini Dressing
- Tahini – rich and nutty, this sesame paste is the heart of the dressing’s creamy texture.
- Fresh lemon juice – adds bright acidity, balancing the earthiness of the tahini.
- Garlic clove – minced finely for a subtle punch of flavor without overpowering.
- Olive oil – brings smoothness and helps emulsify the dressing beautifully.
- Maple syrup or honey – a touch of sweetness that mellows the tartness perfectly.
- Salt & pepper – essentials to season and enhance every ingredient’s flavor.
Optional Add-Ins & Garnishes
- Toasted pine nuts or almonds – for extra crunch and a delightful nutty finish.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro – to brighten the salad with fresh, green notes.
- Grated Parmesan – if you enjoy a savory, slightly salty twist.
This ingredient list for Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Chickpeas and Lemon Tahini Dressing builds layers of flavor and texture that make every bite a joyful experience.
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
- Prep the sprouts: Remove and discard stem ends, then use a mandoline or sharp knife to shave Brussels sprouts thinly until they’re ribbon-like and vibrant green.
For the Lemon Tahini Dressing: - Whisk the dressing: Combine tahini, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper; whisk until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and perfectly emulsified.
- Toss chickpeas: Drain, rinse, and pat chickpeas dry, then fold gently into the shaved sprouts to ensure every bite feels hearty, creamy, and protein-packed.
- Add onion: Scatter the thinly sliced red onion over the greens, then toss gently so its mild, tangy kick melds seamlessly with the sprouts and chickpeas.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the lemon tahini dressing over the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Chickpeas and Lemon Tahini Dressing, then toss until all components are evenly coated for a creamy, zesty finish.
- Garnish and serve: Top with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs, then serve immediately or chill 10 minutes for flavors to mingle beautifully.
Optional: Sprinkle extra herbs or seeds for color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad Variations
Feel free to explore different flavors and textures to make this salad your own with these exciting ideas!
- Vegan Cheese: Replace Parmesan with your favorite vegan cheese for a creamy, plant-based option that still delivers on flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the salad for a fiery burst that will awaken your taste buds.
- Cranberry Twist: Toss in dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness and chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunch.
- Quinoa Boost: Mix in cooked quinoa for extra protein and a delightful nuttiness that enhances the overall heartiness of the dish.
- Apple Crunch: Thinly sliced apples or pears introduce a refreshing sweetness, brightening up the salad and adding a juicy element.
- Zesty Citrus: Incorporate orange or grapefruit segments for a burst of juice and a refreshing twist that elevates the citrus notes.
- Nutty Delight: Use roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch that contrasts with the tender sprouts and creamy dressing.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh mint or dill for unique herbal notes that can transform the flavor profile into something spectacular.
Enjoy customizing your Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad and surprise someone with the unexpected twists!
How to Store and Freeze Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Fridge: Store leftover Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
Dress Separately: Keep the lemon tahini dressing separate until serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy, ensuring every bite remains vibrant.
Freezer: While fresh salads aren’t ideal for freezing, you can freeze extra dressing in an ice cube tray for up to 2 months, ready to enhance future salads!
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this salad; enjoy it chilled and fresh for the best texture and flavor experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Chickpeas and Lemon Tahini Dressing is perfect for meal prep! You can shave the Brussels sprouts and prepare the lemon tahini dressing up to 24 hours in advance, storing each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The chickpeas can also be rinsed and dried ahead of time, staying ready for inclusion. When it’s time to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients, toss with the dressing, and add your desired garnishes. This way, you’ll enjoy a vibrant, hearty salad with just a few minutes of effort!
What to Serve with Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Chickpeas and Lemon Tahini Dressing?
Elevate your meal with delicious pairings that enhance the vibrant flavors of this refreshing salad.
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Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and seasoned, grilled chicken adds a satisfying protein boost that complements the salad’s crunch perfectly.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa brings a nutty flavor that pairs well with the zesty dressing, creating a wholesome, filling option.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread provides a comforting contrast to the freshness of the salad, making for a delightful textural balance.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and soft texture play beautifully against the salad’s bright and tangy flavors, offering a heartwarming element.
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Spicy Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy and flavorful, these provide a spicy kick that enhances the chickpeas in the salad while adding an addictive crunch.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate and highlights the zesty lemon tahini dressing, making each bite feel more vibrant.
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Apple Crisp for Dessert: A warm, sweet apple crisp adds a comforting finish to your meal, rounding out the evening with a perfect harmony of flavors.
Tips for the Best Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
- Shave thinly: Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to slice Brussels sprouts paper-thin. Thick slices lose that signature crisp texture essential to the salad.
- Dry chickpeas well: After rinsing canned chickpeas, pat them completely dry to prevent the salad from becoming soggy and keep the dressing from diluting.
- Balance the dressing: Whisk lemon tahini dressing until smooth and taste as you go; adjust acidity or sweetness to keep flavors bright without overpowering the sprouts.
- Toss gently: Combine ingredients with care to avoid bruising delicate sprouts while ensuring chickpeas and onions are evenly distributed for every bite.
- Serve fresh or chilled: Enjoy immediately for maximum crunch or let the salad rest 10 minutes chilled; this allows flavors to meld without losing the refreshing texture.
- Add texture thoughtfully: Toasted nuts or fresh herbs elevate the salad’s flavor and crunch—skip them if you want a simpler, cleaner experience but don’t skip seasoning.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Chickpeas and Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my Brussels sprouts are good for shaving?
Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm, bright green, and compact. Avoid those with yellowing leaves or dark spots all over, as these indicate age or spoilage. Fresher sprouts will shave crisply and taste sweeter!
Can I store the salad after it’s dressed, and how long will it last?
I recommend storing the salad and dressing separately to keep everything crisp. Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Dress it just before serving to avoid sogginess and maintain that vibrant crunch we all love.
Is it possible to freeze the lemon tahini dressing?
Absolutely! Freezing the entire salad isn’t ideal, but you can freeze the dressing. Pour it into an ice cube tray, freeze for about 2 hours, then transfer cubes to a freezer bag. Use within 2 months and thaw in the fridge before tossing with fresh salad.
What if my salad turns soggy—how can I fix it?
Sogginess usually means the dressing was added too early or chickpeas weren’t dried well. To fix this, pat your chickpeas completely dry, store the salad and dressing separately, and toss just before serving. If soggy happens anyway, freshen it up with extra lemon juice or a handful of toasted nuts for crunch!
Can pets eat this salad or any of its ingredients?
While Brussels sprouts and chickpeas are safe for most pets in small amounts, the lemon tahini dressing contains garlic and lemon—both potentially harmful to dogs and cats. It’s best to keep this salad just for yourself and share pet-friendly treats instead!
Easy Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Chickpeas & Zesty Tahini
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove and discard stem ends of the Brussels sprouts and shave them thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife.
- In a bowl, combine tahini, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper; whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas, pat them dry, and fold gently into the shaved Brussels sprouts.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl and toss gently.
- Drizzle the lemon tahini dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Top with optional toasted nuts and fresh herbs and serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes.
