Get ready to transform the often-misunderstood brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have even the pickiest eaters begging for seconds! This Italian-inspired Brussel Sprouts with Crispy Pancetta recipe is about to revolutionize your vegetable game, turning these tiny green gems into a crispy, savory sensation that's impossible to resist. Imagine golden-brown brussels sprouts with perfectly crisped edges, studded with salty pancetta and finished with a tangy balsamic glaze - this is not your grandmother's boring vegetable side dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 ounces pancetta, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even roasting.
- Thoroughly wash the brussels sprouts under cold running water. Pat them completely dry using paper towels to ensure crispy roasting.
- Trim the stem ends of the brussels sprouts and slice each sprout in half lengthwise, creating a flat surface for caramelization.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Dice the pancetta into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size to ensure even and quick cooking.
- Spread the seasoned brussels sprouts cut-side down on a large rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Sprinkle the diced pancetta evenly over the brussels sprouts.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, until the brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy, and the pancetta is rendered and crisp.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately drizzle balsamic vinegar over the hot brussels sprouts and pancetta.
- Transfer to a serving platter, gently tossing to distribute the balsamic vinegar and ensure even coating.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and slightly cool.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Make absolutely sure to pat your brussels sprouts completely dry before roasting to achieve that perfect caramelized exterior.
- Use a large, rimmed baking sheet and arrange the sprouts cut-side down in a single layer. Overcrowding will steam the vegetables instead of roasting them, preventing that desirable crispy texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese in the last 2-3 minutes of roasting for an additional layer of deliciousness.
- The key to perfect pancetta is cutting it into uniform small cubes, which ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Don't skip the resting time after roasting - those few minutes allow the flavors to meld and the balsamic vinegar to slightly caramelize, creating a more complex taste profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
