Hurray for spring! It’s the time of year we crave healthy, fresh food, and this spring we’re pairing two popular trends – Riesling and Brussel Sprouts. Food and wine trends, yes, we get caught up in them too!
Brussel Sprouts seemed to have really caught on in 2017 and are still increasing in popularity, with sales up so far over the past year in the US by 17% to 80 million pounds for this delightfully crunchy fresh veggie. Similarly, as the Robb Report notes, Riesling has experienced a rebirth over the past decade. Often viewed as the wine of choice by Somms, it is a fabulous varietal that can range from sweet to dry, from simple to complex, and from young to age-worthy.
A white with a lip smacking palate, our 2016 single vineyard Riesling is just the ticket to pair with this flavourful Kale and Brussel Sprouts Salad. Deliciously refreshing and gorgeously aromatic, the Riesling’s juicy tart and sweet combination matches the acid, sweet and saltiness of the dressing of this crunchy and satisfying salad.
Kale & Brussel Sprout Salad
FOR THE DRESSING
1 tbsp minced shallots
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1½ tsp lemon zest
2 tsp honey or agave nectar
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
FOR THE SALAD
4 cups finely shredded Lacinato kale (pack loosely)
4 cups finely shredded brussels sprouts (pack loosely)
½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
½ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
DIRECTIONS
Whisk together shallots, mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest & honey. Add oil, whisking continuously until well combined. Season dressing with salt & pepper to taste. (You can add more lemon juice or agave nectar to adjust the acidity or sweetness to your personal taste.) For the salad, in a large bowl, toss kale, Brussels sprouts & almonds. Add dressing as desired, toss to combine, add cheese & toss. Optional, add some fruit for additional zing and a dash of color (try dried cranberries or pomegranate and some orange slices). Serve immediately.
This kale/sprouts salad has all the ingredients that separates a great salad from a meh one!
