Shaved Brussels Sprouts
Shaved Brussels sprouts are a delightful twist on the regular Brussels sprouts we know. These miniature cabbages, when thinly sliced or “shaved,” transform into a tender, unique side dish that’s easier to enjoy than their roasted counterparts. The combination of the delicate, leafy texture and the vibrant colors, especially when paired with a little bit of red onion and parmesan, creates a plate that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Having experienced the wonder of shaved Brussels sprouts for the first time at a cozy dinner party, I couldn’t help but fall in love with their unexpectedly delicious flavor and versatility.
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What truly makes this recipe work is how simple and satisfying it is. You can whip up shaved Brussels sprouts in about 15 minutes, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients – a healthy side dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor! Whether you’re pairing them with grilled chicken, served alongside a hearty steak, or simply enjoying them on their own, this dish will surely become a favorite. So grab your knife or food processor and let’s dive into this quick and tasty recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 15 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a savory, umami explosion.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green of the Brussels sprouts and the punch of red onion make for a beautiful dish.
- Flexible Serving: Enjoy as a side or a light main and works well for family dinners or gatherings.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free, and you can easily make them vegan by omitting the cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps to sauté the vegetables until golden brown. Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor but feel free to use another cooking oil if preferred.
- 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, shaved: Fresh, whole Brussels sprouts work best. You can shave them by hand or use a food processor for speed. If you can’t find Brussels sprouts, you might try thinly sliced cabbage as an alternative.
- ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced: Provides a sweet, slightly sharp flavor that balances the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts. If red onion isn’t available, yellow or white onion can be used.
- Pinch salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish. Adjust to your taste preferences.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuse your dish with fragrant garlic goodness. More can be added if you’re a garlic lover!
- ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Offers a salty, nutty addition that complements the sprouts beautifully. For a dairy-free option, you could try nutritional yeast.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds a warming spice; feel free to adjust it based on your preference.
How to Make Shaved Brussels Sprouts
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers slightly before moving on to the next step.
- Sauté Sprouts and Onion: Add the shaved Brussels sprouts, diced red onion, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the Brussels sprouts are starting to soften.
- Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 3 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are softened and just beginning to turn golden brown. The smell will be absolutely amazing!
- Serve with Cheese: Transfer the beautifully sautéed sprouts to a serving platter or bowl. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top and add more salt and black pepper to taste. Enjoy your delicious creation while still warm.
Storing & Reheating
To store your shaved Brussels sprouts, keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, move them to the refrigerator where they can stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, just until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly, but a touch of fresh pepper or a sprinkle of cheese can refresh their flavor.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- When shaving Brussels sprouts, try to make slices as thin and even as possible for uniform cooking.
- If you’re short on time, consider using a food processor fitted with a slicing blade to shave the sprouts quickly.
- Be careful not to overcrowd your skillet; if necessary, cook in batches to prevent steaming.
- The garlic burns easily, so add it towards the end of cooking for maximum flavor without bitterness.
- Feel free to experiment with toppings, such as crushed nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze, for an extra flavor dimension.
Shaved Brussels sprouts are more than just a side dish; they’re a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy vegetable while still treating your taste buds. With their quick prep time and delightful flavor, you can easily incorporate them into any meal. I encourage you to play around with this recipe, perhaps mixing in your favorite ingredients or trying different cheeses. Trust me, these will hit the spot!

Recipe FAQs
Can I shave the Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can shave Brussels sprouts a few hours before cooking. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent them from browning.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a nutty, cheesy flavor without any dairy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. This will give your Brussels sprouts a spicy twist that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
PrintMore Main Dishes Recipes
- Baked Chicken Tostadas
- Crispy Baked Chicken Tacos
- Crispy Oven-Baked Potato Wedges (Pub Style)
- Classic Creamy Coleslaw (Better Than Deli-Style)
- Easy Chicken and Gravy
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📖 Recipe Card

Shaved Brussels Sprouts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Shaved Brussels Sprouts dish features tender, sautéed sprouts with garlic and parmesan, delivering a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for a quick dinner or a healthy side, it’s easy to prepare and utterly delicious!
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb. brussels sprouts, shaved
- ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
- Pinch salt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shaved brussels sprouts, red onion, and a pinch of salt, then sauté for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 3 minutes, until the brussels sprouts are softened and slightly browned.
- Transfer cooked sprouts to a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, then serve.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as feta for a different taste.
Ensure to shave the brussels sprouts thinly for optimal cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg





