When the chilly breeze begins to tickle the leaves and the holidays are just around the corner, I find myself craving something comforting yet refreshing – that’s when this Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon comes into play. The crispy bite of roasted Brussels sprouts, the savory crunch of bacon, and the crunch of hazelnuts create a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on your palate.
I first whipped this up for a cozy gathering with friends, and you’d be surprised at how quickly the bowl emptied! The blend of zesty lemon juice and sweet maple syrup gives this salad a unique twist that elevates it beyond the ordinary. It’s not just a salad; it’s a dish that turns everyday ingredients into a culinary masterpiece, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.
Whether you’re tired of fast food or just looking to embrace healthy, homemade meals, this salad is your ticket to flavorful satisfaction. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why is this Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad irresistible?
Deliciously unique: This salad masterfully combines crispy bacon, rich hazelnuts, and tangy lemon dressing, creating a taste sensation you won’t forget.
Versatile option: Ideal as a side dish for holiday feasts or a hearty main meal, it fits any occasion beautifully.
Quick and easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe offers gourmet flavors without the hassle, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd pleaser: Impress your guests with this vibrant salad that balances freshness and indulgence effortlessly.
Dive into the joy of cooking with this delightful salad, and if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, don’t miss my post on healthy homemade meals.
Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad Ingredients
• Elevate your cooking with this delightful salad!
For the Dressing
- Olive oil – adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing for a silky finish.
- Lemon juice – provides a zesty brightness that beautifully balances the flavors.
- Maple syrup – a touch of sweetness to complement the savory elements in the salad.
- Mustard – adds a hint of sharpness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic – infuses the dressing with aromatic depth for a more robust taste.
- Salt – essential for enhancing the flavors of the dressing and other ingredients.
- Black pepper – adds a subtle kick and brings the dish’s flavors to life.
For the Salad
- Bacon – crispy and savory, it’s the star that adds indulgent comfort to your salad.
- Hazelnuts – toasty and crunchy, they introduce a delightful texture and nutty flavor.
- Brussels sprouts – tender and slightly caramelized, they serve as the healthy base of this dish.
- Parmesan cheese – provides a salty, creamy touch that melts beautifully with the warm ingredients.
- Dried cranberries – for a sweet pop of flavor that rounds out the salad perfectly.
Don’t forget, this Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a beautiful tribute to the comfort of homemade meals!
How to Make Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad
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Whisk together the dressing by combining olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. This zesty mixture will bring your salad to life, so set it aside for now!
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Toast hazelnuts by placing them in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Stir them for 2-3 minutes until they become golden and fragrant. It’s a simple step that enhances their flavor before setting them aside.
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Cook the bacon in the same skillet over medium heat until it reaches a crispy, golden-brown perfection. Once done, blot with a paper towel to soak up excess grease and chop it into bite-sized pieces; this will amplify the deliciousness of your salad.
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Sauté the brussels sprouts by adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, then turning the heat to medium-high. Stir in the brussels sprouts and cook for a few minutes, until they start to turn slightly golden brown, bringing out their natural sweetness.
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Combine everything by reducing the heat to low, then adding the dressing, Parmesan cheese, and cooked bacon to the skillet. Sauté for a few more minutes until the cheese melts. Serve immediately, garnished with extra bacon, hazelnuts, and shaved Parmesan for an eye-catching finish!
Optional: Sprinkle some extra dried cranberries on top for a touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully, but the texture may soften slightly.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the Brussels sprouts and bacon can lose their texture. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience!
Reheating: If you want to reheat the salad, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to refresh the dish without overcooking the sprouts.
Make Ahead Options
These Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing (olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper) up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container – this helps meld the zesty flavors beautifully. You can also cook the bacon and toast the hazelnuts up to 3 days ahead, storing them in separate containers to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, sauté the brussels sprouts (in a bit of olive oil) and add the reserved dressing, cooked bacon, and Parmesan cheese for a delightful finish. This way, you’ll have a satisfying salad ready with minimal effort when life gets hectic!
What to Serve with Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad?
When you’re ready to create a delightful dining experience, think of bright and complementary flavors that elevate every bite.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness balances the crispness of the salad, creating a harmonious side that comforts the soul. Pair the two, and you have a cozy meal that’s both hearty and fresh.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and vibrant, these tender carrots bring a pop of color to your plate while echoing the salad’s delightful sweetness.
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Grilled Chicken Breast: A simple yet savory choice, grilled chicken adds protein without overshadowing the salad’s nuanced flavors. The smoky grill marks are an inviting addition!
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Citrus Quinoa: This nutty, fluffy grain mixed with a hint of citrus adds an extra layer of freshness that echoes the zesty dressing beautifully.
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Red Wine: A light-bodied red complements the rich flavors of the bacon and hazelnuts, making it a perfect sipping partner for this warm salad.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and continues the citrus theme, perfectly wrapping up a lovely meal.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread serves as a warm, crispy side that will have everyone reaching for another piece. The contrast with the salad makes for a delightful bite.
These pairings can transform your meal into a feast that is pleasing to the eyes and palate!
Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!
- Vegan: Swap bacon for smoky tempeh or coconut bacon, and use a vegan Parmesan alternative for a delicious plant-based option.
- Nut-Free: Omit hazelnuts and add sunflower seeds for a crunchy bite without the allergens. They provide a satisfying texture and can still hold their own in the salad.
- Cheese Substitute: Try feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the salad’s flavors. Crumbled feta adds a creamy richness you’ll love.
- Sweet Addition: Toss in diced apples or pears for a fresh, fruity element that complements the nuttiness and savory flavors. This little burst of sweetness can elevate your salad.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick if you’re craving some heat. Just adjust the amount to your preferred spice level and enjoy!
- Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor and brightness that enhances the overall experience of each bite. Their freshness lifts the dish beautifully.
- Quinoa Base: For a heartier salad, serve it over a bed of cooked quinoa. This not only adds protein but also gives the salad a lovely fluffy texture to enjoy.
- Caramelized Onions: Toss in some caramelized onions for a sweet and savory twist. Their richness is a wonderful addition that elevates the rustic charm of your salad.
Expert Tips for Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad
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Quality Ingredients: Use fresh Brussels sprouts and high-quality bacon. This will significantly enhance the flavors of your Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad.
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Proper Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the Brussels sprouts; they should be tender but still have a slight crunch. This preserves their vibrant color and nutrition.
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Seasoned Bacon: Make sure to season the bacon well while cooking. This ensures that each bite explodes with flavor, elevating your salad experience.
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Dress Right Before Serving: For the best texture, toss the salad with the dressing just before serving. This prevents the Brussels sprouts from wilting and keeps them fresh.
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Nut Toasting Tips: Toast hazelnuts slowly over medium-low heat to avoid burning. This step adds depth to their flavor, making your salad even more delightful.
Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely, the key to a great salad starts with selecting fresh Brussels sprouts! Look for small to medium-sized sprouts that are firm and deeply green. Avoid those with yellowing leaves or dark spots.
How should I store leftover Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad?
Store any leftover Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully over time, although the Brussels sprouts may soften slightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply give it a gentle toss to revive the flavors.
Can I freeze this salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze the Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad. Freezing may affect the texture of the Brussels sprouts and bacon, making them mushy when defrosted. Instead, please enjoy the salad fresh for the best taste and experience!
What if my Brussels sprouts are too bitter?
Very much! If you find that your raw Brussels sprouts have a bitter taste, consider blanching them before sautéing. Boil them in salted water for about 2-3 minutes, then quickly transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking. This process helps to mellow out the bitterness while retaining their vibrancy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for friends or family with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that this salad contains bacon, which is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. You can substitute the bacon with crispy chickpeas or mushrooms for a delicious, plant-based alternative. Additionally, be aware of the hazelnuts if anyone has nut allergies; you can skip them or replace them with seeds for crunch.
How can I enhance the flavor even more?
To elevate your salad experience, consider adding a dash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick! Another great option is to incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives; they add a lovely freshness that beautifully complements the ingredients in your Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad.
Savor the Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the dressing by combining olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl.
- Toast hazelnuts by placing them in a large skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Cook the bacon in the same skillet over medium heat until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Brussels sprouts by adding olive oil to the skillet, cooking until slightly golden brown.
- Combine everything, reduce heat, and add the dressing, Parmesan cheese, and cooked bacon, sautéing until cheese melts.
- Serve garnished with extra bacon, hazelnuts, and shaved Parmesan.