Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Welcome to a delightful, nutrient-packed recipe featuring Brussels sprouts with turkey bacon, pecans, and cranberries. This dish is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it a versatile side dish or even a light main course. Ideal for holiday gatherings or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe promises to please your palate while providing a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.

Overview of the Recipe

This Brussels sprouts recipe combines roasted sprouts with crispy turkey bacon, toasted pecans, and sweet cranberries. The dish is easy to prepare and takes less than an hour from start to finish. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout dish that can complement a variety of main courses.

History and Origin

Brussels sprouts, named after the capital city of Belgium, have been cultivated since the 16th century. They belong to the Brassica family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, and kale. Initially popular in Northern Europe, Brussels sprouts have made their way into global cuisine, especially during the fall and winter seasons. The addition of turkey bacon, pecans, and cranberries is a modern twist that enhances the traditional preparation with new flavors and textures.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed, yellow leaves removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1 cup pecans
  • ½ cup dried cranberries

Instructions

How to Roast Brussels Sprouts

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F.
  2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Slice all Brussels sprouts in half.
  3. Season: In a medium bowl, combine halved Brussels sprouts, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt. Toss to ensure even coating.
  4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, cut side down.
  5. Roast: Roast in the oven for about 25 minutes. For even browning, turn them over during the last 5-10 minutes. The cut sides should be partially charred but not blackened.

How to Cook Turkey Bacon in the Oven

  1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a separate baking sheet with foil.
  2. Arrange the Turkey Bacon: Place the turkey bacon slices in one layer.
  3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until the turkey bacon is done. This can be done simultaneously with roasting the Brussels sprouts.
  4. Drain and Slice: Drain the turkey bacon of fat and slice it into small bites.

How to Toast Pecans

  1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Arrange the Pecans: Add pecans in one layer on the baking sheet.
  3. Toast: Toast the pecans in the preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, or until they get darker in color. Be careful not to burn them.

Prepare Dried Cranberries

  1. Soak the Cranberries: For best results, briefly soak the dried cranberries in hot water.
  2. Boil Water: Bring a small pot of water to a boil.
  3. Soak: Add dried cranberries to a medium bowl. Pour hot water over the cranberries and soak them for about 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly.

Assembly

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine roasted Brussels sprouts, warm chopped cooked turkey bacon, toasted pecans, and soaked dried cranberries.
  2. Toss Together: Toss everything together. The olive oil from Brussels sprouts and fats from turkey bacon should be enough to coat the ingredients. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to mix with the salad (optional).

Serving

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Calories: 407 per serving
  • Servings: 4 people

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted poultry, grilled fish, or even a hearty beef stew. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to any meal. For a complete meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or quinoa.

Variations of the Recipe

  • Vegan Version: Replace turkey bacon with smoked tempeh or vegan bacon.
  • Nut-Free: Substitute pecans with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
  • Cheese Addition: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Health Benefits

Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making them excellent for boosting immunity and promoting overall health. Turkey bacon provides a lean source of protein, while pecans offer healthy fats and cranberries add a touch of natural sweetness without refined sugars.

Notes

  • Be cautious not to overcook the Brussels sprouts as they can become mushy.
  • Toast the pecans carefully to avoid burning, which can impart a bitter taste.
  • For a fresher taste, you can add a splash of lemon juice before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries? Yes, but fresh cranberries will have a more tart flavor. You may want to cook them briefly with a bit of sugar to balance the tartness.

2. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving. Store the roasted Brussels sprouts, cooked turkey bacon, toasted pecans, and soaked cranberries separately and combine them when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Brussels sprouts with turkey bacon, pecans, and cranberries is a delightful dish that combines flavors and textures to create a memorable eating experience. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a simple dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the health benefits and savor the delicious taste of this wonderful dish!

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