Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon
There’s something truly heartwarming about gathering around a table filled with delicious food, isn’t there? Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the golden hues of sunset settling in through your kitchen window, and the mouthwatering aroma of a Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon wafts through the air. As you prepare this dish, the sizzle of bacon and the nutty smell of roasted Brussels sprouts create a symphony of comfort that invites family and friends to come closer. This isn’t just a salad; it’s a warm hug on a plate—perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You might be wondering, why is this Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon such a standout dish? Let’s dive into the reasons that make it not just a meal, but an experience:
- Rich, Savory Flavor: The crunchy, caramelized Brussels sprouts paired with the tasty crispy bacon create a flavor explosion that’s impossible to resist.
- Comforting Food: It warms you up, providing a sense of comfort akin to a cherished family recipe passed down through generations.
- Quick Dinner Idea: This dish comes together in less time than it takes to order takeout, making it a fantastic weeknight meal.
- Family-Friendly & Kid Approved: Even the pickiest eaters in your home won’t say no to crispy bacon mixed with sweet, roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as a side or as a light main course topped with protein like grilled chicken or tofu, this salad has your back.
- Healthier Option: Packed with nutrients, Brussels sprouts are a great way to sneak in some greens without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients
To bring this delightful dish to life, here’s what you’ll need:
- Brussels Sprouts (1 pound): Trimmed and halved, these little green gems are the star of the show.
- Bacon (6 slices): Adds that smoky, crispy goodness that elevates the whole dish.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): A drizzle helps roast the Brussels sprouts to perfection while adding healthy fats.
- Garlic (4 cloves): Minced for an aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with the Brussels sprouts.
- Balsamic Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy depth of flavor that balances the richness.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, enhancing the natural flavors of the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): Freshly grated for a delightful finishing touch.
Substitutions: For a healthier option, swap the bacon for turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative. You can also replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This dish comes together quicker than that takeout delivery, so you’ll have more time to enjoy dinner with loved ones!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). The ideal temperature for roasting.
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, leaving the drippings in the pan.
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Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: In the bacon drippings, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to brown.
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Add Garlic: Sprinkle in the minced garlic and continue sautéing for an additional 2 minutes, until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
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Roast Everything Together: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and roast for 15 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and tender.
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Finishing Touches: When they are ready, remove the skillet, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Chop the crispy bacon and sprinkle it over the top. Toss to combine.
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Serve Warm: If using, finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Add Nuts: For some crunch, toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans right before serving.
- Make it Festive: Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and festive flavor for holiday dinners.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or a seared steak for a delightful dinner. Consider serving it with a glass of crisp white wine or a light red. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this salad will be the star of the meal!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or toss it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it’s perfectly delicious even as leftovers!
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
- Select Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Choose sprouts that are firm and green without any yellowing leaves. Freshness impacts flavor!
- Crispy Bacon: For extra crispiness, bake your bacon in the oven. It cooks evenly and isn’t as messy as frying.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the Brussels sprouts room to roast; overloading them can lead to steaming instead of caramelizing.
FAQs
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Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon in advance. Just combine them with the other ingredients when you’re ready to serve. -
Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes! Substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for that savory, umami flavor. -
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to blend in other veggies like carrots or butternut squash for added variety.
Conclusion
This Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon goes far beyond being a simple dish; it’s an invitation to gather around with loved ones and share moments that matter. Its comforting warmth and beautiful flavors make it a perfect addition to your meal repertoire—quick, easy, and utterly satisfying! I encourage you to try it, share it with family and friends, and perhaps make it a part of your own cherished traditions. Happy cooking!
Contents
Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels Sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices Bacon Adds smoky, crispy goodness
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Helps roast the Brussels sprouts
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced For aromatic flavor
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar Adds tangy depth of flavor
- Salt & Pepper, to taste Enhances natural flavors
- Parmesan Cheese, optional, freshly grated For a delightful finishing touch
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and let drain on paper towels, leaving drippings in the pan.
- In the bacon drippings, add halved Brussels sprouts and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to brown.
- Sprinkle in minced garlic and continue sautéing for an additional 2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15 minutes or until Brussels sprouts are golden brown and tender.
- Remove the skillet, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, chop the crispy bacon, and sprinkle it over the top. Toss to combine.
- Serve warm, finishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if using.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest