Autumn Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Butternut Squash

By:

Sarah

Published:

April 14, 2026

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Autumn is a time when we let our taste buds have a little fun, and what better way to celebrate the season than with an Autumn Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Butternut Squash? This salad brings together a delightful crunch from the shaved Brussels sprouts and an unexpected sweetness from roasted butternut squash that captivates the palate. Each bite is a fantastic mix of textures—creamy, crunchy, and tender, making it a dish that embodies the essence of fall. Picture it on a crisp evening, served alongside a hearty soup or grilled protein, and you’ve got a perfect meal.

Autumn Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad With Butternut Squash 9

I’ll never forget the first time I crafted this salad. The earthy Brussels sprouts combined with the vibrant honeycrisp apples and buttery roasted squash created a melody of flavors that was nothing short of enchanting. Not only does it look stunning plated up — all those shades of green, orange, and crunch are visually appealing — it also brings together all the cozy flavors that capture fall. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll not only fall in love with the process of making it but also with how satisfying each mouthful is. It’s easy, packed with nutrients, and a true crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip it up in just about 20 minutes of active prep time and 45 minutes of roasting.
Irresistible Flavor: You’ll experience a fantastic blend of sweet, savory, and tangy tastes that just clicks.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors make this salad not just delicious but a beautiful addition to any table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a side dish at gatherings.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or vegan diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shaved thinly: These are the star of the show, providing a fresh, crunchy base. For convenience, you can use a mandoline for perfect thinning.
1-2 cups your fave greens, optional: Add leaves like kale or spinach for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
2 cups roasted butternut squash: Sweet and nutty, this is a great way to introduce that autumn flavor; ensure it’s perfectly roasted for optimal texture.
1 medium honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced: The sweet and tart flavor balances well with the salad’s savory elements.
½ cup shaved parmesan cheese: This will add a nice, salty creaminess. Pecorino is a fantastic substitute if you prefer.
Garlic herb croutons: Use store-bought or homemade to elevate the crunch.
Caesar dressing: Choose a classic store-bought variety or make your own for that fresh touch.
1 cup halved walnuts, roughly chopped: These provide a beneficial crunch. Toasting them will enhance their nutty flavor.
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness to the walnuts, creating that lovely sticky glaze.
1 tablespoon water: To help create the sticky glaze for the walnuts in the pan.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the sweet maple.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: A hint of spice that complements the butternut squash perfectly.
¼ teaspoon ground allspice: This rounds out the flavors and enhances that autumn essence.

How to Make Autumn Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Butternut Squash

Roast the Butternut Squash: For the butternut squash, simply peel, seed, and cut it into cubes, then toss with olive oil and a pinch of salt before roasting at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender; check for doneness by piercing with a fork.
Prepare the Maple Walnuts: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the chopped walnuts, maple syrup, water, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and allspice. Stir well and bring to a slight boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until the walnuts are glazed and sticky. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Shave the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts in cold water mixed with white vinegar before patting dry. Trim off the woody ends and remove any damaged outer leaves. Using a sharp chef’s knife (or a food processor for speed), cut each sprout in half lengthwise, then slice them thinly crosswise.
Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts with your greens, then gently mix in the sliced apples, roasted butternut squash, the maple walnuts, croutons, and shaved parmesan.
Dress the Salad: To serve, add portions of the salad to individual bowls and drizzle generously with Caesar dressing. Feel free to add extra toppings, such as shredded chicken, roasted chickpeas, or even crispy bacon, for an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy: Dig in and relish every bite!

Storing & Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if stored, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. For short-term room temperature storage, keep it at or below 70°F for no more than 2 hours. If you choose to freeze, keep in an airtight container for up to three months; however, expect some texture change upon thawing. Reheat any cooked components gently in a pan or microwave, but serve the salad cold for the best experience.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

For the crunchy walnuts, avoid burning by keeping an eye on them while they caramelize. Stir often!
To keep your Brussels sprouts crisp, avoid dressing them until ready to serve.
If prepping in advance, store the different components separately for best texture—combine just before serving.
Feel free to swap seasonal ingredients; cranberries or pecans can be a lovely addition.
If you’re making your own croutons, toss bread cubes in olive oil and seasonings, then bake at 375°F until golden and crunchy, around 10-15 minutes.

There’s no denying that the Autumn Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Butternut Squash has a way of capturing the heart and palate alike. It’s not just a salad; it’s an experience! Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or impressing guests at a gathering, this delightful dish brings a touch of warmth and flavor that defines the season. So don’t hesitate to whip it up and make it your own—add seasonal variations as you see fit! There’s no wrong way to enjoy this masterpiece.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the parmesan cheese for a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast, and choose a vegan Caesar dressing. You could even add some avocado for creaminess.

What can I use instead of walnuts?

If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have an allergy, pecans or almonds are great alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the roasting time as necessary for different nuts.

How do I make homemade croutons?

Making your own croutons is simple! Cube your favorite bread, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and herbs, then bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes until crisp and golden.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep the salad components separate for the best texture. The components can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Dress just before serving!