Festive Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprouts Salad

• 1.5 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted and roughly chopped
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Zest of 1 small lemon

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved Brussels sprouts on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly.
2. Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and crispy on the edges. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
3. While the Brussels sprouts roast, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and chop roughly once cooled.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, and lemon zest until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
5. Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a large mixing bowl. Add the dried cranberries and toasted pecans.
6. Pour the dressing over the Brussels sprouts mixture and toss gently to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon zest as needed.
8. Serve immediately as a warm side dish or at room temperature. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Chef tips

• Trim the Brussels sprouts carefully and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves for best texture and flavor.
• If you cannot find dried cranberries, chopped dried cherries or golden raisins are good substitutes.
• To make this salad vegan, ensure the maple syrup is pure and served cold or at room temperature (some vegans avoid heat-processed syrups).
• For a nuttier flavor, you can swap pecans with toasted walnuts or almonds, but avoid if anyone has nut allergies.