Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey

Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey is a delightful holiday side dish that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With crispy brussels sprouts, rich honey glaze, and the added crunch of pomegranate arils, it’s hard to resist. Whether for a festive feast or a weeknight dinner, this dish will surely stand out on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet honey, zesty orange, and the natural earthiness of brussels sprouts creates a unique taste experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these roasted brussels sprouts with any main course, from chicken to beef, ensuring they fit well with various meals.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the brussels sprouts and pomegranate arils make this dish visually appealing for any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and lower in calories, this dish offers a healthy alternative to heavier sides.

Tools and Preparation

To create Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides ample space to roast the brussels sprouts evenly without overcrowding.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for preparing the honey glaze without taking up too much burner space.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for tossing together ingredients before roasting.

Ingredients

A great quick and easy holiday side dish…and always one of the first to disappear!

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 1 pound brussels sprouts, halved
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• kosher salt and black pepper

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest

For Topping

• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled or use grated Manchego cheese
• 1 cup pomegranate arils

How to Make Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by positioning the oven rack in the lower third of your oven. Preheat it to 425 degrees F.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

On a rimmed baking sheet:
1. Toss together the halved brussels sprouts, olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper.
2. Lay the brussels sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet.

Step 3: Add Bacon (or Alternative)

Sprinkle chopped bacon (or an alternative like turkey bacon) around the sprouts if desired.

Step 4: Roast

Roast in the preheated oven until deeply browned, about 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Honey Glaze

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan:
1. Bring honey and crushed red pepper flakes to a boil over medium heat.
2. Boil for 1 minute; then remove from heat.
3. Stir in apple cider vinegar, butter, orange zest, and a pinch of salt.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once roasting is complete:
1. Remove brussels sprouts from the oven.
2. Drizzle honey glaze over them.
3. Transfer to a serving plate and top with goat cheese and pomegranate arils.
4. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delightful side dish, perfect for any holiday gathering or family dinner. Their savory flavor combined with the sweetness of honey makes them irresistible. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With a Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Serve these roasted Brussels sprouts alongside grilled chicken breast for a balanced meal.
• Beef Tenderloin: Pair with beef tenderloin for a hearty dinner that impresses guests.
• Turkey Cutlets: These sprouts complement turkey cutlets beautifully, adding depth to your plate.

As Part of a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss warm Brussels sprouts with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh salad option.
• Grain Salad: Add them to quinoa or farro salads for added texture and flavor.

As an Appetizer

• Bruschetta Topping: Serve on toasted bread as a unique appetizer topped with crumbled cheese.
• Charcuterie Board: Include roasted Brussels sprouts on your charcuterie board for an exciting twist.

How to Perfect Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey

To make the most out of your Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh Brussels sprouts and quality olive oil for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the sprouts evenly on the baking sheet to ensure they roast properly and get crispy.
• Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your preference for sweetness in this dish.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding different cheeses like feta or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving for extra texture.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey

These roasted Brussels sprouts pair well with various dishes that complement their flavors. Consider adding one or more of these side dishes to your meal.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Velvety mashed potatoes create a comforting combination with the savory sprouts.
2. Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower: This low-carb dish offers a cheesy, garlicky contrast to the sweet honey glaze.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: For a cohesive flavor profile, serve sweet honey glazed carrots alongside these Brussels sprouts.
4. Lemon Herb Rice: Light and refreshing lemon herb rice balances the rich flavors of this dish perfectly.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the salted honey in the roasted sprouts.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: A hearty option that pairs well, providing additional color and nutrition to your plate.
7. Citrus Quinoa Salad: This bright salad enhances the flavors while keeping everything light and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying out new recipes. Here are some common mistakes to watch for while preparing Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey:

• Skipping the Preheating Step: Not preheating your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven reaches the desired temperature before placing your dish inside.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many brussels sprouts on the baking sheet can cause them to steam rather than roast. Spread them out in a single layer for optimal browning.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland flavors. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance the taste significantly.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale or old ingredients won’t provide the same flavors. Use fresh brussels sprouts and quality honey for the best results.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Cooking for too short a time can leave your brussels sprouts undercooked. Follow the recommended roasting time for perfect tenderness and crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store remaining roasted brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, where it will remain good for up to 2 months.

Reheating Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat in a skillet until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey:

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

You can definitely substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon. It will provide a different flavor but still complement the dish well.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms and use plant-based butter instead of salted butter.

What is the best way to cut brussels sprouts?

Cut each brussels sprout in half from top to bottom. This allows for even cooking and enhances caramelization.

Can I prepare Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time by roasting them and storing them as per storage instructions. Just reheat before serving!

Final Thoughts

Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Salted Honey is a delightful side dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences—try adding nuts or seeds for crunch, or switch up the cheese! Give this recipe a try at your next meal!