Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Brussels sprouts are often seen as a side dish staple, but when paired with savory bacon, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries, they transform into a festive and flavorful addition to any meal. This Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a Thanksgiving side dish or a special addition to your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Balanced Flavors: The combination of crispy bacon, earthy Brussels sprouts, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries creates a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory.
2. Easy to Prepare: Despite its festive appearance, this dish is simple and quick to make, with minimal ingredients. It requires only a few steps and is ready in under 30 minutes.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday meal, a dinner party, or just a weeknight dinner, this dish adds a touch of sophistication and flavor to any meal.

Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish. Trim the ends, remove the outer leaves, and slice them in half to help them cook evenly.
• Bacon: Bacon adds a savory, crispy texture that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly. Choose high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
• Pecans: Toasted pecans bring a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness to the dish.
• Dried Cranberries: The sweet and tart cranberries add color and contrast, making this dish a visual and flavor delight.
• Olive Oil: A little olive oil is used to sauté the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they cook evenly and become beautifully crispy.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slicing them in half. If you prefer smaller pieces, you can quarter them.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and crumble it into small pieces. Set aside. You can use the bacon grease in the skillet to sauté the Brussels sprouts for extra flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet, add a little olive oil if necessary and toss the Brussels sprouts in the skillet. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden and crispy on the outside, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add Pecans and Cranberries

Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked, stir in the toasted pecans and dried cranberries. Continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving platter and top with the crumbled bacon. Serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

• Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
• Crisp the Brussels Sprouts: For the best texture, make sure to get a good sear on the Brussels sprouts. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause them to steam rather than crisp up.
• Customize the Dish: If you want to make the dish even more festive, consider adding a splash of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra richness.

Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are not only delicious, but they’re also packed with health benefits. They are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. They also support digestive health and are low in calories, making them a great addition to any diet.

Why You Should Make Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

This recipe combines the best of both worlds: it’s healthy and indulgent at the same time. The Brussels sprouts are nutrient-packed, while the bacon, pecans, and cranberries add rich, satisfying flavors. Whether served at a family dinner or holiday gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite among your guests.

Conclusion

Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries is the ultimate side dish that brings together savory, sweet, and crunchy elements in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and watch it become a crowd-pleaser at your next meal!

Serving and Storage Tips for Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: For added color and freshness, garnish the Brussels sprouts with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. This adds a fragrant touch and elevates the presentation.
2. Pair with Main Dishes: This side dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, such as roasted turkey, grilled chicken, steak, or even a vegetarian option like quinoa or lentils. Its balanced flavors make it versatile for any occasion.
3. Serve Warm: Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries are best enjoyed immediately after cooking when the Brussels sprouts are crispy and the flavors are fresh. Serve directly from the skillet or transfer to a serving dish.
4. Family-Style Serving: Serve this dish family-style in a large bowl or platter, allowing everyone to help themselves. The vibrant colors and textures make it an attractive centerpiece on the table.
5. Add a Drizzle of Dressing: If you like a bit of tanginess, consider drizzling a light vinaigrette or balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts just before serving. This will complement the sweetness of the cranberries and the richness of the bacon.

Storage Tips:

1. Store in an Airtight Container: To store leftovers, place the Brussels sprouts in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their flavor and freshness.
2. Reheat Gently: When reheating, avoid using the microwave, as it can make the Brussels sprouts soggy. Instead, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a small amount of olive oil to help crisp them up again. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
3. Freezing: While Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries can be frozen, it may alter the texture of the Brussels sprouts and cranberries. If you choose to freeze, place the dish in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in a skillet or oven.
4. Separate Ingredients: If you know you’ll have leftovers, you might want to store the Brussels sprouts, bacon, pecans, and cranberries separately. This helps maintain the crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts and prevents sogginess in the bacon.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries as a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s great for leftovers or making ahead for busy days.

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe? While fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for this dish to achieve the best texture, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts if needed. However, frozen sprouts tend to have a softer texture once cooked, which might affect the overall crunchiness of the dish. Be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries ahead of time. You can sauté the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, combine them with the pecans and cranberries, and reheat in a skillet. This makes it an excellent dish for meal prep or holiday gatherings.

3. Can I substitute the bacon with a vegetarian option? Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the bacon with plant-based bacon or crispy fried onions. You could also use roasted chickpeas or toasted sunflower seeds for a crunchy, savory element.

4. How do I store leftovers of Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries? To store leftovers, place the Brussels sprouts in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet to restore some crispness to the Brussels sprouts and bacon. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture less appealing. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months, though the texture may change upon reheating.

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