Tired of the same old side dishes? This Brussel Sprouts Bacon Cranberry recipe is a game-changer! It's a delightful blend of sweet, salty, and savory flavors that will elevate any holiday meal or even become a delicious weeknight addition. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Get ready to experience Brussel sprouts like never before!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Brussel Sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the Brussel sprouts, removing any loose outer leaves. Cut them in half lengthwise.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best!), cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. Set the crispy bacon aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat. Add the red onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the Brussel sprouts and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to brown slightly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup over the Brussel sprouts. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir to coat everything evenly. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the Brussel sprouts are tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the cooked bacon and cranberries. Give everything a good toss to combine the flavors. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
Tips for the Best Brussel Sprouts Bacon Cranberry Recipe:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your Brussel sprouts have enough space in the skillet to brown properly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Crispy Bacon is Key: Make sure your bacon is fully cooked and crispy for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of maple syrup. Conversely, add a touch more for a sweeter profile.
- Add Some Spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to this dish.
Variations:
- Add Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts would add a delightful crunch.
- Different Dried Fruit: Try using dried cherries or apricots instead of cranberries.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary would complement the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250 Fat: 18g Protein: 6g Carbohydrates: 12g Fiber: 4g
This Brussel Sprouts Bacon Cranberry recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy this often-overlooked vegetable. It's quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful – making it a perfect addition to your healthy meal repertoire. Enjoy!