Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Parmesan, Cranberries and Pine Nuts

An easy alternative to cooked sprouts, this salad packs some serious crunch and is a delicious, nutrient-dense combination of flavours. 

1 lb Brussels sprouts, cut very finely or grated on mandolin
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup dried cranberries 
1/4 cup roasted pine nuts
1/4 cup fresh parsley
2 tbs lemon juice

Finely sliced or shave the sprouts and toss with the olive oil and lemon juice dressing. Season with salt and pepper and allow to rest for 20 minutes. Mix in remaining ingredients and serve. Can be prepared well ahead of time. 

A member of the Brassica family, Brussels sprouts are high in fibre, vitamin K, vitamin C and are an excellent source of antioxidants. 

Brussels sprouts are also phytoestrogens whose active compounds indole 3 carbonil and DIM are important for estrogen metabolism. Numerous studies indicate that eating cruciferous vegetable (sprouts, kale, broccoli, cauliflower) can be beneficial for hormonal balance.