If your household shares my love for sautéed Brussels sprouts, consider transforming them into a nutritious Brussel Sprout Salad instead. Despite the numerous benefits of Brussels sprouts, have you ever thought about enjoying them in their raw form?
This uncomplicated recipe is ideal for a cozy evening with the family or as a hassle-free contribution to your upcoming dinner gathering. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for sharing at a friend’s place. If you decide to bring it along, simply pack the dressing separately and toss it right before serving. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – it’s convenient and doesn’t require refrigeration, allowing it to be served at room temperature.
Brussel Sprout Salad with Toasted Sesame dressing
Equipment
- 1 skillet
- 1 blender/food processor
- measuring spoons and cups
- 1 Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup white sesame seeds
- 1 TSP grated lemon zest
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 TBSP white wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 TSP honey
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb Brussel sprouts sliced very thinly
- 1 apple cored and sliced thin
- 1 green onion
- 1/2 cup mint
- 1 hot pepper (optional)
Instructions
- In small skillet, toast sesame seeds over low heat, stirring until lightly toasted. Be careful not to burn. (around 3 minutes)
- Take toasted sesame seeds and transfer to blender/food processor let cool for a few minutes
- Add lemon zest and juice, vinegar, garlic and honey puree until a chunky paste forms about one minute.
- with machine still running, add olive oil and puree till smooth 1 to 2 minutes,
- Scrape dressing into large bowl add salt and pepper to taste if you desire
- Add thinly sliced Brussel sprouts, sliced apple, sliced mint, green onion (1/4 inch cut) toss all ingredients till mixed well and serve
Video
While opting for raw Brussels sprouts offers potential advantages, it’s worth acknowledging that cooking them can also be beneficial. Cooking has the ability to break down certain compounds that might hinder nutrient absorption, enhancing the bioavailability of some nutrients.
- Nutrient retention: Raw Brussels sprouts may retain more of certain nutrients compared to cooked ones. Cooking methods such as boiling or steaming can cause some nutrient loss, particularly water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C. Eating Brussels sprouts raw ensures that these heat-sensitive nutrients remain intact.
- Enzyme activity: Raw Brussels sprouts contain enzymes that may contribute to digestion. Cooking can denature these enzymes, so consuming them raw may support better digestion.
- Fiber content: Both raw and cooked Brussels sprouts are good sources of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health. However, the cooking process may soften the fiber, making it easier to digest for some individuals.
- Antioxidant levels: Brussels sprouts contain antioxidants such as glucosinolates, which have been associated with various health benefits, including potential cancer-fighting properties. Some studies suggest that the levels of certain antioxidants may decrease with cooking, so consuming them raw might provide a higher antioxidant content.
- Texture and taste: Raw Brussels sprouts have a crisp and crunchy texture, which some people prefer over the softer texture of cooked ones. The flavor can also be slightly different when consumed raw, with a more robust and peppery taste.
Easy Brussel Sprout Salad with Toasted Sesame Dressing
Whether you prefer Brussels sprouts raw or cooked is a matter of personal taste and individual dietary requirements. Diversifying the ways you prepare this nutritious vegetable can guarantee a spectrum of nutrients and flavors in your diet. If you have particular health considerations or dietary constraints, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is recommended for personalized advice.
View more great salads here