Autumn Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Butternut Squash

By:

dani

Published:

March 15, 2026

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There’s something undeniably magical about autumn, particularly when it comes to fall produce. The earthiness of roasted roots and the crispness of fresh greens harmonize beautifully in a dish like the Autumn Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Butternut Squash. This salad captures the essence of the season with its vibrant colors, textures, and warm flavors, making it the perfect table centerpiece for your holiday gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Autumn Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad With Butternut Squash 9

As the weather cools down, cravings often shift towards heartier fare. This salad offers just that, with layers of savory roasted butternut squash, crunchy Brussels sprouts, and sweet honeycrisp apple slices that bring a delightful contrast. The creamy Caesar dressing binds it all together, while spiced maple walnuts add a beautiful crunch. Honestly, each bite feels like a warm embrace, reminding you of the cozy comforts of fall. If you’re ready to add a delicious, nutritious twist to your dinner table, this is your chance!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep in just 20 minutes, with a cook time of 45 minutes.
Irresistible Flavor: Each element shines, from the savory dressing to the sweet, roasted squash.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The brilliant colors of greens, butternut squash, and apples will impress your guests.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a side dish at gatherings or a standalone meal for a light dinner.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable to gluten-free or vegan diets with simple substitutions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb. Brussels sprouts: Trimmed and shaved thinly, adding a refreshing crunch. For quicker prep, a food processor or mandoline works wonders.
1-2 cups your fave greens (optional): Fresh greens like arugula or spinach can enhance the salad’s vibrancy.
2 cups roasted butternut squash: Sweet and nutty, this ingredient is the star of the show, providing warmth and depth. Use my How to Roast Butternut Squash recipe!
1 medium honeycrisp apple: Thinly sliced, offering a crisp and sweet contrast to the savory elements.
½ cup shaved parmesan cheese: The creamy, nutty flavor of parmesan plays beautifully with the Caesar dressing.
Garlic herb croutons: Add texture and flavor; feel free to use store-bought or make your own.
Caesar dressing: A creamy touch that binds everything together. Store-bought works well, but homemade takes it to new heights!
1 cup halved walnuts: Roughly chopped, these nuts provide crunch and richness.
3 tbsps pure maple syrup: Adds sweetness and helps glaze the walnuts for that extra touch.
1 tablespoon water: To help create the walnut glaze.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Just enough to bring warmth and a secret layer of flavor.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice to round out the flavors.
¼ teaspoon ground allspice: For a hint of unexpected depth.

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

Prepare the Butternut Squash: Follow my How to Roast Butternut Squash recipe for beautifully caramelized cubes. Simply chop, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender, about 25-30 minutes at 400°F.
Toast the Walnuts: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine 1 cup halved walnuts, 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon water, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon ground allspice. Stir together and bring to a slight boil. Let it simmer on low for 2-3 minutes until the walnuts become sticky and glazed.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse 1 lb. Brussels sprouts under cold water mixed with white vinegar, pat dry. Trim the woody ends, remove damaged leaves, and slice them thinly (you might prefer using a sharp chef’s knife or food processor for this).
Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the shaved Brussels sprouts and your choice of greens. Add the sliced honeycrisp apple, roasted butternut squash, spiced maple walnuts, croutons, and ½ cup shaved parmesan cheese.
Drizzle and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss gently. If desired, top your salad with extras like shredded chicken or roasted chickpeas for added protein.
Enjoy Every Bite: Dig in and savor the wonderful medley of flavors, from the earthy Brussels sprouts to the sweet crunch of apples. Bon Appetit!

Storing & Reheating

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To keep the Brussels sprouts crispy, add dressing just before serving. For a delightful twist, enjoy the salad at room temperature or even cold. Freezing isn’t recommended, as texture may change. If you must, freeze the roasted butternut squash separately for up to three months, reheating in the oven until warm.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid soggy Brussels sprouts by drying them well after washing; excess moisture can make them limp.
For extra flair, consider roasting your own croutons: toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and herbs, then toast until golden.
Use leftover roasted vegetables or swap in seasonal ingredients like kale or pears to keep things exciting.
If your nuts start to burn, lower the heat and keep stirring to ensure even toasting.
Consider making the spiced walnuts ahead of time for a quick assembly later.

The harmonious blend of textures and flavors in this Autumn Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Butternut Squash is simply irresistible. The fresh and warm elements not only make for a stunning presentation but also create a balanced and wholesome dish everyone will love. Experiment with your favorite add-ins or dressings; there are so many ways to make it your own!

Give this recipe a try and invite both family and friends to enjoy a beautiful plate filled with seasonal goodness. It’s an inviting dish that speaks to the spirit of sharing and savoring the charming essence of autumn.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the roasted butternut squash and spiced walnuts in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. Assemble everything last minute for the freshest taste and texture.

What can I substitute if I’m allergic to walnuts?

If walnuts are off-limits, feel free to use pecans or almonds instead. You can skip the nuts altogether if desired, or try crunchy seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar texture.

Can I make a vegan version of this dish?

Yes! Simply swap out the Caesar dressing for a vegan alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What’s the best way to ensure my Brussels sprouts are tender but not mushy?

Slicing them thinly is key. Also, avoid overcooking. They’ll continue to soften slightly after roasting, so aim for tender-crisp when you first take them out! By adding them raw to the salad, combined with the residual heat from the butternut squash, you’ll find a delightful crunch.