Honey Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw Recipe

There’s something special about a crisp, refreshing slaw that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Whether it’s a side for your holiday spread, a vibrant addition to a weeknight dinner, or a healthy dish to bring to a potluck, this Honey Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw shines on any table. The earthy crunch of shredded Brussels sprouts, paired with the creamy sweetness of honey and the sharp zing of Dijon mustard, creates a combination that’s both comforting and exciting. Inspired by seasonal produce and wholesome ingredients, this slaw transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a dish that’s anything but ordinary. It’s a recipe that celebrates freshness, flavor, and simplicity — ideal for when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something nourishing and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw

This recipe is proof that healthy can be both flavorful and satisfying. Unlike traditional creamy coleslaws that rely heavily on mayonnaise, this Brussels sprout slaw features a lighter, more sophisticated dressing that highlights natural ingredients. The honey brings gentle sweetness, the Dijon adds a punch of tang, and a touch of apple cider vinegar ties everything together with a bright finish.

But it’s not just about flavor — texture plays a starring role, too. The thinly shredded sprouts add an irresistible crunch, while optional mix-ins like sliced apples, toasted nuts, or dried cranberries introduce exciting contrasts in every bite. This slaw isn’t just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter.

Here’s why readers can’t get enough of it:

• Perfectly balanced flavor – tangy, sweet, and slightly nutty.

• Nutrient-packed – Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins C and K.

• Versatile – pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or even a grain bowl.

• Make-ahead friendly – the flavors deepen as it chills, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings.

• A fresh twist on tradition – a modern upgrade from the typical cabbage slaw.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful and healthy Honey Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw, you’ll need:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced (or shredded using a food processor)

• 1 medium apple, thinly sliced or julienned (optional but adds sweetness and crunch)

• ½ cup shredded carrots

• ¼ cup sliced green onions

• ⅓ cup chopped toasted almonds or pecans (for crunch)

• ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional, for a hint of tartness)

For the Honey Dijon Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
   Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any discolored outer leaves. Use a sharp knife or a food processor fitted with a slicing blade to shred them thinly. You should end up with fine ribbons that resemble shredded cabbage.

2. Mix the Veggies:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded Brussels sprouts, carrots, sliced apple, and green onions. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

3. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — you can add a touch more honey for sweetness or vinegar for extra tang.

4. Combine the Slaw:
   Pour the Honey Dijon dressing over the shredded vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly until every strand of Brussels sprout is lightly coated.

5. Add the Final Touches:
   Stir in the toasted nuts and dried cranberries. Mix again to combine all the textures and flavors.

6. Chill and Serve:
   For best results, refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the sprouts to slightly soften, creating a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Yield: Serves 4 to 6

Notes

• For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or substitute with roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

• If you prefer a creamier texture, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing.

• The slaw can be made up to 24 hours in advance — just store it in the refrigerator and toss again before serving.

• If you plan to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before eating to preserve the crispness.

• Add seasonal ingredients like pomegranate seeds, pear slices, or shaved Parmesan for an elegant twist.

The Secret Behind the Perfect Honey Dijon Dressing

What truly makes this slaw irresistible is its dressing. The combination of Dijon mustard and honey creates a dynamic contrast that’s both bold and balanced. Dijon mustard brings sharpness and depth, cutting through the natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts, while honey adds mellow sweetness that softens and harmonizes the flavor profile.

The addition of apple cider vinegar not only enhances the tang but also boosts the dish with gut-friendly probiotics. Meanwhile, olive oil provides richness, ensuring every bite is smooth without being heavy. A squeeze of lemon brightens it all, giving the dressing a refreshing lift that keeps the slaw from feeling too dense.

It’s a simple dressing, yet it transforms the dish completely — versatile enough to use on other salads or even as a marinade for chicken or roasted vegetables.

Tips for the Best Brussels Sprout Slaw

1. Slice the sprouts thinly:
   The key to a tender yet crunchy slaw is finely shredded Brussels sprouts. Use a mandoline slicer or the slicing blade on your food processor for even results.

2. Massage the sprouts:
   For extra tenderness, you can lightly massage the shredded sprouts with a small drizzle of olive oil before adding the dressing. This helps soften their texture and reduce bitterness.

3. Balance the flavors:
   Always taste the dressing before mixing it in. A pinch of salt or a touch more honey can make all the difference in achieving that perfect sweet-tangy balance.

4. Let it rest:
   Allowing the slaw to chill gives the flavors time to develop. The sprouts absorb the dressing beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful salad.

5. Customize to your liking:
   Add your favorite toppings — from roasted chickpeas for protein to fresh herbs like parsley or dill for brightness. This slaw is your canvas!

How to Serve Honey Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw

This slaw is incredibly versatile and complements a variety of meals. It can be served as a side dish, light lunch, or topping for other recipes. Here are some serving ideas:

• Pair it with grilled or roasted chicken for a wholesome dinner.

• Serve alongside turkey or fish for a bright, refreshing contrast.

• Add it to sandwiches or wraps for extra crunch and flavor.

• Top a grain bowl with it for a colorful, nutrient-packed meal.

• Serve it at picnics or BBQs as a healthier alternative to traditional creamy slaw.

It’s the kind of dish that tastes just as good freshly made as it does the next day — perfect for meal prepping or entertaining.

Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are often underrated, but they’re one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables around. Here’s why adding them to your diet is a smart choice:

• Rich in vitamins C and K: These vitamins support immune function and bone health.

• High in fiber: Promotes digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

• Loaded with antioxidants: Helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

• Supports heart health: The combination of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats in this recipe makes it great for cardiovascular wellness.

Pairing Brussels sprouts with olive oil and vinegar, as in this slaw, helps enhance nutrient absorption — making each bite both delicious and nourishing.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about this Honey Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw is how well it keeps. You can prepare it in advance without worrying about it getting soggy, which makes it ideal for busy weeks or hosting events.

• To make ahead: Assemble the slaw (without dressing) up to a day in advance. Store both the slaw and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, toss everything together.

• To store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

• Freezing: Not recommended — the fresh texture of the sprouts won’t hold up once thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts?
Yes! Using pre-shredded Brussels sprouts is one of the easiest ways to save time in the kitchen without compromising flavor or freshness. Many grocery stores sell bags of shredded Brussels sprouts in the produce section, which makes this recipe even quicker to prepare. However, it’s important to check the package carefully to ensure the sprouts are still vibrant green and crisp, not wilted or browning. If they look a bit dry, you can easily revive them by rinsing the shreds under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel before mixing them into your slaw. This quick step restores moisture and enhances their natural crunch. Pre-shredded sprouts also tend to have shorter shelf lives, so try to use them within a few days of purchase for the best texture and taste.

2. What can I substitute for honey?
Honey gives the dressing its signature sweetness and helps balance the tang of Dijon mustard and vinegar, but there are several great alternatives if you’d like to make this recipe without it. Pure maple syrup is a popular substitute — it offers a smooth, earthy sweetness that blends beautifully with the mustard and complements the Brussels sprouts’ flavor. Agave nectar is another excellent option that adds mild sweetness without altering the texture of the dressing. For those looking for a lower-sugar alternative, a touch of apple juice concentrate or a few drops of liquid stevia can work as well. The key is to adjust to taste, adding your sweetener gradually until the flavor feels balanced and bright.

3. How do I reduce the bitterness of Brussels sprouts?
If you’ve ever been hesitant about Brussels sprouts because of their natural bitterness, there are simple tricks to make them taste milder and more enjoyable. The first secret is slicing them very thinly — the finer the shred, the less intense the bitterness. The second is letting them sit in the dressing for at least 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This brief marinating time allows the acidity from the vinegar and lemon juice to soften the sprouts and mellow their flavor. The sweetness from honey (or its substitutes) and the natural sugars from ingredients like apples or dried cranberries also help balance any lingering sharpness, creating a perfectly harmonious flavor profile.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This Honey Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw can be easily adapted into a fully vegan recipe with just one simple swap. Replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, both of which provide a similar sweetness and consistency without using animal products. The rest of the ingredients — Brussels sprouts, olive oil, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice — are already plant-based. This makes the slaw a fantastic option for vegans and anyone seeking a fresh, dairy-free, and egg-free side dish. The result remains crisp, flavorful, and perfectly balanced, offering all the satisfaction of the original version with a compassionate, plant-powered twist.

Honey Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

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Description

A crisp and vibrant slaw that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Ideal for holiday spreads, weeknight dinners, or a healthy dish to bring to gatherings, this Honey Dijon Brussels Sprout Slaw transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a refreshing and flavorful side dish. The combination of honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of apple cider vinegar creates a bright, balanced dressing that complements the crunch of the sprouts and optional mix-ins like apples, nuts, and cranberries.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced

• 1 medium apple, thinly sliced or julienned (optional)

• ½ cup shredded carrots

• ¼ cup sliced green onions

• ⅓ cup chopped toasted almonds or pecans

• ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)

• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any discolored leaves. Shred thinly using a knife or food processor.

• In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, carrots, apple, and green onions. Toss to mix evenly.

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

• Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly to coat evenly.

• Stir in toasted nuts and dried cranberries. Mix to combine all flavors and textures.

• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

• For a nut-free version, omit nuts or use roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

• For a creamier texture, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing.

• Can be made up to 24 hours ahead; store dressing separately and toss before serving.

• Add seasonal ingredients like pomegranate seeds, pear slices, or shaved Parmesan for variation.

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes

Michelle Davis