Shaved Brussel Sprout Caesar Salad with Toasted Bread Crumbs

Creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor, this Shaved Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad with Toasted Bread Crumbs is a fresh spin on a classic. With no anchovies in the dressing and crisp toasted breadcrumbs instead of croutons, this dish is vegetarian-friendly. It’s the perfect side salad for any meal, but hearty enough to enjoy as a main dish topped with your favorite protein.

Shaved Brussels Spouts Salad

If you’ve never had raw Brussels sprouts in a salad, this recipe is the perfect place to start. When shaved thin, Brussels sprouts become tender, almost sweet, and make a great base for a creamy Caesar dressing. The dressing is rich and zesty—made with mayo, olive oil, lemon, garlic, and briny capers instead of anchovies. Toasted buttery breadcrumbs take the place of croutons for a crunch in every bite.

Ingredients Needed To Make the Shaved Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad with Toasted Bread Crumbs~

For the Salad~

1 pound of Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp of butter
1 cup of panko bread crumbs
1/4 tsp of salt

For the Dressing~

1/2 cup mayo
1/4 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 tsp of capers
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 tsp of salt
1/2 tsp of pepper

Notes for Success~

✔️ Use a mandoline or sharp knife to shave the Brussels sprouts thinly and evenly
✔️ Don’t skip the toasting step—the bread crumbs add essential flavor and crunch
✔️ Prep the dressing and sprouts ahead, but keep the breadcrumbs separate until serving
✔️ You can double the dressing and use it later for other salads or as a dip

How to Serve the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Ceasar Salad with Toasted Bread Crumbs~

Serve as a light side with Garlic Butter Whole Roasted Chicken or Sheet Pan Ham and Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes

Pair with soup like Butternut Squash Soup for a comforting lunch or dinner combo

Add Grilled Chicken, Honey Dijion Roasted Salmon, or crispy chickpeas to turn it into a hearty main dish

Use leftovers in a wrap or as a base for a grain bowl the next day

Print Recipe

Shaved Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad with Toasted Bread Crumbs

This Shaved Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad is an easy, elevated twist on the classic you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether you're planning a dinner party, prepping weekday meals, or need a quick side that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this salad is a guaranteed hit. It’s easy to prep and comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a go-to salad for weeknights, holidays, and everything in between.

Prep Time12

Cook Time8

Course: dinner, side salad

Cuisine: Italian

Servings: 6

Author: Jennifer Struss

Ingredients

For the Salad

1 pound Brussels sprouts thinly sliced or shaved
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Bread Cumbs

1 tablespoon butter
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caesar Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 teaspoons capers
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Toast the Bread Crumbs: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add panko bread crumbs and salt. Stir frequently until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Make the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine mayo, olive oil, garlic, capers, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts and grated Parmesan. Toss with desired amount of Caesar dressing until well coated.
Top and Serve: Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs just before serving for the perfect crunch.