Looking for a quick and delicious dish that will elevate your meal in just 25 minutes? Look no further than this Quick Bacon Brussels Sprouts Salad! With the perfect combination of crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you're serving it as a side or enjoying it as a light main course, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive in and discover the simple steps to create a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound brussel sprouts, halved
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the ends of the sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise.
- Next, cook the bacon. In a skillet over medium heat, add the strips of bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings (or drain excess grease and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil). Heat the skillet over medium heat.
- Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side down. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté the Brussels sprouts for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender. If you prefer them softer, you can cover the skillet for a couple of minutes.
- Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked, remove them from the heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed Brussels sprouts, crumbled bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well mixed.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the salad, and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Toss again to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Serve the salad warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Quick Bacon Brussels Sprouts Salad as a delicious side dish or a light main course!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts with no yellow leaves. Fresh sprouts will yield the best flavor and texture.
- Crisp Up the Bacon: For extra flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon. The crispy bits will add a wonderful crunch to your salad.
- Sautéing Technique: When sautéing the Brussels sprouts, make sure to place them cut side down in the skillet to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. This enhances their sweetness!
- Adjusting Texture: If you prefer your Brussels sprouts a bit softer, feel free to cover the skillet for a couple of minutes while they cook. This will steam them slightly while still giving them a nice sear.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts, dried cranberries, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Warm or Room Temperature: This salad is versatile! It can be enjoyed warm right after cooking or allowed to cool to room temperature, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time and mix them with the Parmesan just before serving for an easy meal prep option!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
