The paleo diet

ASIAN BRUSSELS SPROUT SALAD

This refreshing salad is a great option if you’re craving Asian food but don’t want to order takeout. The hot, tangy, gingery dressing goes wonderfully with the sprouts and mandarin oranges, but since it’s a salad, it makes a lovely side dish or even a light lunch or dinner. It’s a wonderful Asian-inspired option that’s packed with veggies and perfectly suited for the warmer months. SERVES 4

PREP TIME: 15 minutes

COOK TIME: None

1 pound Brussels sprouts, shredded or sliced finely

½ cup sliced scallions

1 (14-ounce) can mandarin oranges in water, drained

1 tablespoon chili garlic paste

½ teaspoon crushed fresh ginger

3 to 4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

¼ cup sesame oil

¼ cup sesame seeds

  1. In a large bowl, stir to combine the Brussels sprouts, scallions, and mandarin oranges.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk to combine the chili garlic paste, ginger, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk continuously while streaming the olive oil and sesame oil into the bowl.
  3. Drizzle a few tablespoons of dressing over the salad, and mix well. Add a little more if you like it more heavily dressed. Garnish with the sesame seeds and serve.

VARIATION 1 ASIAN BRUSSELS SPROUT SALAD WITH SHRIMP: Add ½ pound grilled or Blackened Shrimp (here) to the salad for some extra protein.

VARIATION 2 SPICY ASIAN BRUSSELS SPROUT SALAD: Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to really give this salad some heat.

PREP TIP: Slice a big bag of Brussels sprouts ahead of time so they’re ready to be thrown into any salad at any time.