It was one of those bustling evenings when I craved a warm, hearty dish but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when I crafted this Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Bacon Dressing—a delightful mix that has become my go-to for quick, satisfying meals. The sweet and smoky dressing transforms tender, shredded brussels sprouts into a flavor-packed experience, while the crispy bacon and toasted almonds add the perfect crunch. This salad not only comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a prime choice for weeknight dinners, but it also has a versatile charm that impresses at gatherings. Curious about how to make it your own? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this salad a crowd-pleaser?
Flavor Explosion: This Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad offers a unique combination of savory, sweet, and tangy that will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or when you entertain guests unexpectedly.
Customizable: You can easily tailor the textures by adjusting cooking times for the sprouts or swapping in your favorite nuts or fruits for extra flair.
Nutritional Balance: Packed with healthy fats and fiber, it’s not just delicious—it’s also a guilt-free indulgence the whole family will love.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature; it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it a smart addition to any meal.
Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Thick-Cut Bacon – Provides richness and flavor; use two strips for better rendering, or substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Shallot – Adds a mild onion flavor; thinly sliced shallots are essential for balance, but yellow onions can be used in a pinch.
• Shredded Brussels Sprouts (8 oz) – The main ingredient; use pre-packaged for convenience or slice whole sprouts as an alternative.
• Sliced Almonds (1/4 cup) – Offers a crunchy texture; can substitute with walnuts or pecans.
• Dried Cranberries (2 tbsp) – Contributes sweetness and color; substitute with raisins for a different flavor profile.
• Parmesan Cheese – Garnish with grated cheese for additional umami; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
• Rendered Bacon Fat (1 tsp) – Key for the dressing base; reserve from cooking the bacon to ensure it’s sufficient for emulsification.
• Maple Syrup (2 tsp) – Adds sweetness; honey can be a substitute for a different flavor.
• Dijon Mustard (2 tsp) – Provides tanginess; spicy brown mustard can be used instead.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tsp) – Brings acidity; can replace with apple cider vinegar if needed.
• Good Quality Olive Oil (2 tsp) – Used for emulsifying the dressing; avocado oil is a suitable alternative.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Bacon Dressing
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by washing and slicing the brussels sprouts into thin shreds, ensuring even cooking. Next, thinly slice the shallot. Finally, chop the thick-cut bacon into ½-inch pieces, setting everything aside for easy assembly during the cooking process.
Step 2: Toast Almonds
In a non-stick pan over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast them for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; once done, remove from the pan and set aside for later.
Step 3: Cook Bacon
In the same pan, add the chopped bacon over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is mostly rendered and just starting to crisp (around 4-5 minutes), stirring occasionally. Reserve about 1 teaspoon of the rendered bacon fat in the pan for the dressing, then transfer the remaining bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 4: Make Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved bacon fat, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing. Set the bowl aside so the flavors can meld while you prepare the salad.
Step 5: Cook Shallots and Brussels Sprouts
Return the pan to medium heat, adding the sliced shallots along with a pinch of salt. Sauté the shallots for about 2 minutes until softened. Then, add the shredded brussels sprouts, stirring well. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they darken and soften slightly, perfect for the Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once the brussels sprouts are cooked to your liking, remove them from the heat and transfer them to a large bowl. Toss them well with the maple bacon dressing, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries. Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a delightful finish, and serve immediately while warm.
Make Ahead Options
These Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Bacon Dressing components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can slice the brussels sprouts and shallots up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can toast the almonds and cook the bacon, then store both separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine the prepared ingredients and quickly reheat the brussels sprouts and bacon before tossing everything with the dressing. This way, your salad remains just as delicious as when freshly made, offering you all the comforting flavors without the fuss!
Storage Tips for Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad
Fridge: Store your salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep it fresh. Reheating gently will help maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze components separately for up to 3 months. Combine when ready to serve, but avoid freezing the dressed salad for best quality.
Reheating: For optimal results, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warm—but be careful not to overcook to avoid sogginess.
Texture Reminder: The Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but store leftovers properly to retain as much taste and texture as possible.
Expert Tips for Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad
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Bacon Perfection: Ensure the bacon is cooked until mostly rendered. This gives you the ideal balance of crispy bits without burning, enhancing the flavor of your warm Brussels sprouts salad.
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Desired Texture: If you prefer softer Brussels sprouts, simply extend the cooking time by 2-4 minutes. This allows for better tenderness while still maintaining a delightful flavor.
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Gradual Seasoning: Be cautious with salt; add it progressively while cooking. This prevents over-salting and allows you to adjust to taste for the salad’s overall balance.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a zestier flavor in your dressing. Freshness can make a noticeable difference in the overall taste of your salad.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to swap sliced almonds for sunflower seeds or different nuts. Getting creative with your toppings can personalize your warm Brussels sprouts salad and add exciting new textures.
What to Serve with Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Bacon Dressing
A delightful warm salad deserves equally appealing companions to create a memorable meal experience.
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Crispy Roasted Chicken: Juicy and tender, the richness of chicken perfectly complements the salad’s smokiness while balancing its vibrant flavors.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty and earthy side dish adds a wholesome element to your plate, boosting fiber and nutrients for a well-rounded meal.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the crunchy textures of the salad, delivering pure satisfaction in every bite.
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Grilled Salmon: The lightness and natural flavors of salmon enhance the salad, beautifully pairing with the maple dressing’s sweetness.
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Fresh Green Beans: Bright, crunchy green beans add a fresh element and colorful contrast, enhancing the overall presentation of your meal.
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Apple Crisp for Dessert: A warm apple crisp brings a sweet end to your dinner, and its cinnamon flavors harmonize delightfully with the salad’s maple notes.
By crafting a full meal with these pairings, you’ll create a dining experience that warms both the heart and the palate.
Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this warm salad to fit your tastebuds and dietary needs!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almonds with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch and a safe option for those with nut allergies.
Sunflower seeds will add a subtle nuttiness without any of the allergens. -
Fruity Twist: Try adding other dried fruits like cherries or figs for a unique flavor profile.
This simple swap introduces a new layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements. -
Dairy-Free: Swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast to maintain the umami flavor without dairy.
This variation is perfect for vegan friends, allowing everyone to enjoy the salad’s deliciousness. -
Extra Crunch: Incorporate crispy chickpeas for additional texture and a boost of protein.
Just roast them in the oven, and toss them into the salad for that irresistible crunch! -
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an aromatic freshness.
A handful of chopped herbs can elevate the flavor and add a pop of color to the dish. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for an exciting kick of heat.
This transformation takes the flavor profile to a new level, perfect for those who love spice! -
Layered Greens: Switch out brussels sprouts with hearty greens like kale or spinach for a different leafy base.
Each green offers varied textures—try sautéing them in the dressing for an added depth of flavor. -
Citrus Zing: Replace the lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter, fruitier dressing.
This variation will create a pleasant brightness to the salad, perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
These variations allow you to make the warm Brussels sprouts salad your own, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience! If you’re interested in more ways to spice up your salads, check out my tips on creative salads or learn about medley ingredients that can elevate any dish.
Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Bacon Dressing Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting brussels sprouts, look for vibrant green ones that are firm and tightly packed. Avoid any that are yellowing or have dark spots all over, as these indicate overripeness. You want listeners of the subtler flavors, not runaway bitterness.
How should I store leftovers of this salad?
For the best quality, store any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. However, the longer it sits, the more the dressing can soften the sprouts. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, stirring to maintain their crunch.
Can I freeze the components of this salad?
Yes, you can! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked brussels sprouts and bacon separately for up to 3 months. To freeze, let them cool completely, then pack them in airtight bags or containers. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. Just avoid freezing the dressed salad to maintain its texture and flavors.
Why are my sprouted brussels turning mushy while cooking?
Very! To prevent mushiness, limit your cooking time. Once the brussels are added, stir them for just 3-4 minutes until they darken slightly. For softer sprouts, extend cooking by only 2-4 minutes. Be sure to watch them closely and sauté on medium heat to ensure proper cooking without overdoing it!
Are there dietary concerns I should consider for this recipe?
Yes, it’s always essential to consider allergies! The recipe contains bacon, nuts (almonds), and dairy (Parmesan), which can be allergens for some individuals. If making it for a gathering, consider asking about dietary restrictions. For nut-free variations, pumpkin seeds can be a great substitute.
Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Bacon Dressing Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by washing and slicing the brussels sprouts into thin shreds.
- Thinly slice the shallot and chop the thick-cut bacon into ½-inch pieces.
- In a non-stick pan over medium heat, add the sliced almonds and toast for about 5-6 minutes.
- In the same pan, cook the chopped bacon until mostly rendered and just starting to crisp.
- Reserve about 1 teaspoon of bacon fat for the dressing.
- Whisk together reserved bacon fat, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil to make the dressing.
- Sauté sliced shallots with a pinch of salt for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Add shredded brussels sprouts and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they darken.
- Transfer cooked sprouts to a large bowl and toss with dressing, almonds, cranberries, and Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately while warm.
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