This salad is bright, fresh, and offers a wonderful combination of textures. The distinct taste of the Brussels sprouts is balanced by the creamy dressing, sweet cranberries, and crunchy almonds.
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 1/4 cup slivered or sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (or other dried fruit like cherries or currants)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 whole lemon)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon warm water (add more if needed to reach desired consistency)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the Brussels sprouts.
- Trim off the tough ends.
- Using a mandoline (with a safety glove!), the slicing disk of a food processor, or a sharp knife, thinly shave the Brussels sprouts. Aim for paper-thin slices. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Toast the Almonds:
- Place the slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium-low heat.
- Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them! Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Make the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, warm water, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard.
- If the dressing is too thick, add more warm water a teaspoon at a time until it reaches a pourable consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Add the dried cranberries and crumbled feta (if using) to the bowl with the shaved Brussels sprouts.
- Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure the Brussels sprouts are well coated with the dressing.
- Stir in most of the toasted almonds, reserving a few for garnish.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salad to serving plates.
- Garnish with the remaining toasted almonds and fresh parsley, if desired.
- This salad is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
