Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is undeniably one of the most delicious ways to enjoy this vegetable. The combination of Brussels sprouts and bacon is a legendary pairing that brings out incredible flavors. You can also explore variations using other vegetables like cabbage, green or wax beans, or chicory and its relatives.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 ounces bacon, chopped
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Place the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it starts to sizzle, reduce the heat to medium and cook until the bacon is crisp and the fat is rendered, which usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, trim the hard edge of the stem from the Brussels sprouts. Cut each sprout into thin slices or shreds using a mandoline, the blade side of a box grater, or a knife. Alternatively, you can cut them into quarters.
3. Add the sliced or shredded Brussels sprouts and 1/4 cup water to the skillet with the bacon. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then turn the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Cook the sprouts, undisturbed, until they are nearly tender, approximately 5 minutes.
4. Once the sprouts are almost tender, uncover the skillet and raise the heat back to medium-high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until any remaining water evaporates and the sprouts are fully tender. This usually takes an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the balsamic vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the chopped thyme if desired. Mix well.
6. Serve the Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon as a delicious side dish.

VARIATIONS:

1. Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Hazelnuts:

• Omit the bacon.
• Add 1/2 cup chopped toasted hazelnuts and substitute 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint or dill for the thyme.
• In Step 2, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil before adding the sprouts. Proceed with the recipe as usual.
• Sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts and herbs over the cooked sprouts, and mix in the balsamic vinegar or lemon juice in Step 3.

2. Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Onions:

• Substitute 1 large onion, thinly sliced, for the bacon.
• Begin cooking the onion in 2 tablespoons of butter or extra virgin olive oil while you prepare the sprouts.
• Cook the onion until it is browned, then continue with the recipe as usual.

SERVING OPTIONS:

Here are some serving options for Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:

• Side Dish: Serve the Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon as a flavorful side dish alongside roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or pork. It also pairs well with grilled steak or seafood.
• Salad: Allow the Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon to cool slightly and toss them with a light vinaigrette or lemony dressing. Add some toasted nuts, dried cranberries, or crumbled cheese for extra texture and flavor. Serve it as a warm or cold salad.
• Brunch or Breakfast: Incorporate the Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon into a hearty brunch or breakfast spread. Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, omelets, or as a filling for breakfast burritos. It also complements hash browns or roasted potatoes.
• Pasta Dish: Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, toss the pasta with the Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and add grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra kick. This creates a delicious and satisfying pasta dish.
• Grain Bowl: Create a wholesome grain bowl by layering cooked quinoa, rice, or farro as the base. Top it with the Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and add other ingredients like roasted vegetables, avocado slices, and a poached egg for a complete and nutritious meal.
• Appetizer or Tapas: Use the Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon as a filling for savory tartlets or as a topping for crostini or bruschetta. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant appetizer option.
• Stir-Fry: Combine the Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon with other sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and snap peas. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete stir-fry dish. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles.

Remember to adjust the serving size and seasoning according to the chosen serving option and the number of people you are serving. Enjoy the versatility of Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and get creative with how you serve it!