Bacon Brussels Sprouts Salad

Introduction:
Elevate your salad game with this Bacon Brussels Sprouts Salad! Featuring crispy bacon, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a tangy vinaigrette, this salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course, it’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Flavorful and Nutritious: A delicious blend of crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and fresh vegetables.
• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it easy to prepare.
• Versatile: Can be served warm or cold, and easily adjusted to fit your taste preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, potlucks, or as a satisfying meal on its own.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices bacon
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.

1. Roast the Brussels Sprouts:

• Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.

1. Cook the Bacon:

• While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

1. Prepare the Dressing:

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

1. Assemble the Salad:

• In a large bowl, combine the roasted Brussels sprouts, crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

1. Add Nuts:

• Sprinkle the chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the salad before serving.

1. Serve:

• Serve immediately while the Brussels sprouts are still warm, or chill in the refrigerator for a cold salad option.

Tips for Success:

• Roasting: Make sure Brussels sprouts are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
• Bacon: For extra flavor, you can use flavored bacon or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the Brussels sprouts before roasting.
• Dressing: Adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing to your taste by adding more honey or vinegar as needed.

Recipe Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add roasted chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian protein source.
• Add Fruit: Toss in some dried cranberries or apple slices for a touch of sweetness.
• Different Cheese: Swap out feta for goat cheese or shredded Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats or roasted chicken.
• Serve as a light main course with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of mixed greens.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the Brussels sprouts may lose some of their crispiness over time.
• Freezing: This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the Brussels sprouts and bacon.

Special Equipment:

• Baking Sheet: For roasting the Brussels sprouts.
• Skillet: For cooking the bacon.

FAQ:

• Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
  Fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred for the best texture, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and thoroughly dry them before roasting.
• Can I make this salad ahead of time?
  You can roast the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon ahead of time. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
• Can I use a different dressing?
  Yes, you can use a different vinaigrette or your favorite salad dressing if preferred.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for prepping ingredients.

Cook Time:

• 25-30 minutes for roasting the Brussels sprouts and cooking the bacon.

Total Time:

• 40 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 8g

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Closing Notes:
Have you tried this Bacon Brussels Sprouts Salad? Share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your delicious salad and check back for more tasty and easy recipes.