This Bacon and Brussel Sprout Salad is a fantastic mix of crunchy sprouts and crispy bacon! Toss in some nuts or seeds for extra crunch and you’ve got a tasty side dish that everyone will love.
I love how the salty bacon adds a punch to the fresh sprouts. It’s a fun way to enjoy veggies without feeling like you’re on a diet, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts bring a nice crunch and slight bitterness that balances the salad. If unavailable, you can use green beans or even kale, but the texture and flavor will differ.
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds fantastic flavor. Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option, or try using plant-based bacon for a vegetarian dish!
Pecans: Pecans provide a great crunch and nutty flavor. You could substitute them with walnuts or almonds, or even use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option!
Blue Cheese: I love blue cheese for its intense flavor, but feta works well too! If you’re not a fan of strong cheese, try goat cheese or even a creamy dressing to keep it lighter.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Brussels Sprouts?
Cooking Brussels sprouts well is key to enjoying them! Start by trimming and halving them to help them cook evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook sprouts in a hot skillet until they caramelize—this adds a great flavor!
- Don’t rush the process; give them about 5-7 minutes on medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- If you want them extra crispy, broil them for a few minutes after sautéing for that delightful char.
Enjoy making this salad and feel free to adjust it to fit your tastes! It’s a flexible recipe that lets you play with flavors. Happy cooking!
Bacon and Brussel Sprout Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (or feta as an alternative)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This salad takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s quick to whip up, making it a fantastic side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain excess oil. Let it cool before crumbling or chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Keep about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor!
2. Toast the Pecans:
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the pecan halves. Toast them over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they smell fragrant. Watch them closely to avoid burning! Once toasted, remove the pecans from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
If needed, add a little olive oil to the skillet. Then, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Sauté over medium-high heat until they are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes. The trick is to get a nice golden color on the sprouts!
4. Make the Dressing:
While the Brussels sprouts are cooking, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This dressing will add a lovely tangy flavor to your salad!
5. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked Brussels sprouts, crumbled bacon, toasted pecans, and the blue cheese. Toss everything gently together to mix the flavors.
6. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat all the ingredients evenly. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
This salad is delicious served warm or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic side dish or can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own. Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Bacon and Brussel Sprout Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts Instead of Fresh?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use a plant-based bacon alternative. You can also add more nuts or consider incorporating roasted chickpeas for extra protein and crunch!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If the salad is dressed, it may get a bit soggy, so consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like cranberries, apple slices, or even sliced almonds for added flavor and texture. This salad is versatile, so get creative!
