Raw Brussels Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This winter seasonal salad is one of our most popular recipes - major crowd pleaser! Brussels sprouts and fennel are high in nutrients, but low in calories. Brussels are a good source of vitamins C and K and folate. Fennel contains high percentages of vitamin C, potassium, and calcium. The high fiber content of this salad keeps you feeling satisfied longer and benefits your digestion. Boost the protein by adding sliced chicken breast, hard boiled egg or chickpeas.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 lb. fresh Brussels sprouts

  • 1 medium to large fennel bulb

  • 1 medium red onion

  • 1/2 c. pumpkin or sunflower seeds

  • Salt (T+T Orange Rosemary Cooking Salt) and pepper, to taste

  • Optional: 1/4 c. of pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries

Orange Vinaigrette

  • 1/2 c. apple cider vinegar

  • 1 c. extra virgin olive oil

  • 1 medium-size orange, zest and juice

>Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming the stem end and removing the tough outer leaves. Then cut lengthwise into thin slices, yielding about 4 pieces per sprout.

>Prepare the fennel by trimming off the end and stalk. Reserve some of the more delicate fennel fronds to add to the salad later. Cut the bulb in half lengthwise, then make thin slices from the halves.

>Cut thin slices from half of the red onion. Reserve the other half, if you desire more red onion to be added into the final salad mix.

>Next, prepare the vinaigrette at the bottom of a large mixing bowl. Start with the apple cider vinegar. Then add the zest and juice of the orange. Add salt and pepper to taste (good rule of thumb is double the amount of salt to pepper). Drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. Continue whisking until fully emulsified into a smooth vinaigrette.

>Add the Brussels sprouts slices, fennel slices, and red onion to the bowl with the vinaigrette. Gently toss to combine. Add additional salt and pepper, the reserved fennel fronds, and pumpkin seeds. Add the pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries now, if including. Gently toss again until combined.

>Can be enjoyed immediately, or chill for a few hours before serving. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.