If you’re looking for a dish that feels festive yet also fits into everyday meals, Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Bacon is the perfect choice. This dish not only looks attractive but also tastes amazing. Its crunchy texture, the salty aroma of bacon, and the nutty flavor of pecans make it so special that eaters ask for it again and again.
Brussels Sprouts – The “Baked Potato” of Green Vegetables
You could call Brussels sprouts the baked potato of the green vegetable world. Just like you can add a variety of toppings to baked potatoes, you can also make Brussels sprouts in a variety of flavors. Add cheese, bacon, or even crunchy nuts like pecans – each time it tastes new and exciting.
Brussels sprouts are made at least once a week at our house. And each time I add a new twist – sometimes a Parmesan cheese topping, sometimes a spicy pepper seasoning, or this classic combination of pecans and bacon.
Why is this dish special
The speciality of this dish is its flavor balance – the salty and smoky aroma of bacon, the mild sweetness of pecans, and the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts make it a perfect side dish.
The crispy texture comes from cutting the sprouts in half lengthwise and roasting them in the oven. This not only gives them a crispy surface, but also doubles their flavor when cooked.
One thing to remember when making this dish – don’t hesitate to add salt and pepper. Proper seasoning is crucial to giving Brussels sprouts a rich flavor.
Festive Touch – Toast the Pecans in Brown Sugar
If you want to make this simple dish for a special occasion, lightly toast the pecans in brown sugar. This will intensify their flavor and add a sweet-salty touch to the entire dish. This small tweak makes it a holiday-style recipe that you can serve at Thanksgiving or any festive dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (about 450 grams) Brussels sprouts – cut off the edges and halve them in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (use two portions)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices bacon – cut into 1-inch pieces and crisp-fried
- 1/4 cup finely chopped and toasted pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven – Preheat the oven to 425°F (about 220°C).
- Prepare the sprouts – Place the Brussels sprouts on a large baking tray. Drizzle them with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Mix well with your hands so that all the pieces are coated in the oil and spices. Arrange them on a tray with the cut side facing down.
- Roast – Roast them in the oven for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Toast the Pecans – While the sprouts are in the oven, toast the pecans in a non-stick pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. When they begin to smell fragrant, remove them and place them on a plate.
- Cook the Bacon – Add bacon pieces to the same pan and cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until they become crispy. Then, drain them on a paper towel to drain off any excess oil.
- Mix – When the sprouts are lightly golden, remove them from the oven and place them on a serving plate. Drizzle a little bacon oil (about 1 tablespoon), then sprinkle with crumbled bacon and toasted pecans.
- Season – Add salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
Perfect Balance of Flavor
This dish offers all three flavors in every bite – crunchy Brussels sprouts, smoky bacon, and nutty pecans. If you’d like, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top, which will add another layer of flavor.
The texture is so amazing that when it comes out of the oven, you won’t be able to resist taking a bite. Many people start tasting it before it even reaches the table!
Other Options for Variety
If you’re looking to try something new, there are plenty of other fun versions of Brussels sprouts:
- Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Honey Glaze – This one offers the perfect balance of mild sweetness and tang.
- Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts – A combination of spicy and sweet flavors that makes them a favorite.
- Garlic and Parmesan Roasted Sprouts – The garlic aroma and cheesy flavor make this a wonderful dish.
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts – A healthy and crispy snack that’s hard to resist once you’ve tried them.
Conclusion: A Healthy and Delicious Everyday Delight
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Bacon are not just a side dish, but a delicious addition to every meal. They’re healthy and have such a deep flavor that you can eat them every day and never get bored.
So the next time you want to try something new and healthy for dinner, be sure to make this dish. Believe me!Both its aroma and taste will make your dining table feel like a feast.
