Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries
This dish features roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with crispy bacon, toasted pecans, and sweet dried cranberries. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it an excellent accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts:
- In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange them cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast Brussels Sprouts:
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender.
- Cook Bacon:
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
- Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Toast Pecans:
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecan halves for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- Be careful not to burn them.
- Soak Cranberries (Optional):
- For plumper cranberries, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the roasted Brussels sprouts, chopped bacon, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries.
- If desired, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
- Toss gently to mix.
- Serve:
- Serve warm as a side dish to complement your main course.
Notes
- Variations:
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Add a sprinkle of goat cheese or feta for a creamy element.
- Make Ahead:
- Prepare all components separately and combine just before serving to maintain texture.
- Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.