Thanksgiving with a Twist

Growing up in a southern family, the Thanksgiving menu is the same traditional food each year.

As a picky eater, finding food that I enjoy eating on Thanksgiving can be a challenge. One of my personal favorite side dishes on Thanksgiving is shaved brussels sprouts salad. If you’re looking for a non-traditional side to add to your feast this holiday season, give this recipe a try! 

Ingredients: 

1 lb Brussels Sprouts (Shaved or halved)  

8 oz Goat cheese 

8 oz Dried cranberries 

½ cup Pecans, chopped 

Bacon (optional, add desired amount) 

Dressing: 

3 Tbsp Oil 

2 Tbsp Honey 

1 Tbsp Dijon mustard 

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400℉. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and lay strips of bacon flat on the baking sheet.  

  2. After the oven is heated, place the bacon in the oven for 10-20 minutes until it reaches the desired crispiness. 

  3. Once the bacon is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and place it on a paper towel to cool. The paper towel will absorb excess grease. 

  4. Pour olive oil into a large pan on the stove and heat it on medium-low. Pour in your brussels sprouts, stirring occasionally, until tender. 

  5. While the brussels sprouts roast, whisk together olive oil, honey, and dijon mustard.

  6. In a large bowl, pour in your cooked brussels sprouts. Top with chopped bacon, goat cheese, cranberries, and nuts.

  7. Drizzle prepared salad dressing over the top. Toss to combine — season with salt and pepper to taste. 

This simple salad is delicious and easy to make. I hope you will try adding this dish to your Thanksgiving feast!  

Happy Thanksgiving, and…   

Be Well, Auburn. 

Writer

Born and raised in the small town of Clanton, Alabama, Lydia grew up eating peaches and cheering on the Auburn Tigers. Lydia’s parents are Auburn alumni, and they claim they began “brainwashing” her and her twin into attending Auburn University at an early age.

Lydia is a junior studying Business Marketing. Upon graduation, she hopes to live somewhere in the beloved south and work in the jewelry industry.

When she is not working or attending class, you can find her taking long power walks around Auburn, attending a workout class, or watching Wheel of Fortune.

Her favorite things include Starbucks, Hokas, her family, and her Apple Watch. Lydia’s goal for her remaining years at Auburn University is to continue growing as a person so she can become the best version of herself and serve those around her to the best of her ability.