Brussels sprouts have come a long way from being the veggie kids love to hate. When roasted to perfection, they transform into crispy bites of deliciousness. Add in some savory bacon, and you’ve got a salad that’s both satisfying and irresistible.
Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this Crispy Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. Let’s get cooking!
Steps
- Thinly slice the Brussels sprouts using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, then place them in a medium-sized bowl.
- Add olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the bowl, tossing the sprouts until they are evenly coated.
- Mix in the dried cranberries, pine nuts, grated pecorino cheese, and chopped chives.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined.
- Allow the salad to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, shaved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated pecorino cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- Salt and pepper, to taste
FAQ
- Can I prepare the Brussels sprout salad in advance?
- Yes, this salad is ideal for making ahead. The Brussels sprouts are sturdy and maintain their texture even when dressed in advance, making it a great option for holiday parties or meal prep.
- What tools do I need to shave Brussels sprouts?
- A mandoline is recommended for thinly slicing the Brussels sprouts, but if you don’t have one, you can use a sharp knife to achieve similar results.
- What are the main ingredients in this salad?
- This salad is made with just seven ingredients: Brussels sprouts, olive oil, lemon juice, dried cranberries, pine nuts, pecorino cheese, and chives.
- How long does it take to make this salad?
- The preparation time for this salad is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for a side dish.
- Can I substitute any ingredients in the salad?
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or nuts if you prefer. The key is to keep the balance of flavors with something tangy, salty, and crunchy.
Tips
- Utilize a Mandoline for Thin Slices: For best results, use a mandoline to thinly slice the Brussels sprouts. This tool ensures consistent and fine slices, which help the salad absorb dressing more evenly and improve texture.
- Prepare in Advance: This salad can be prepared a few hours before serving, as the Brussels sprouts maintain their texture even when dressed. This makes it an excellent option for holiday gatherings or meal prep.
- Balance the Flavors: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the flavors meld together, and you can adjust the seasoning if needed for a more balanced taste.
- Enhance with Extra Olive Oil: Just before serving, consider adding an extra drizzle of olive oil to enhance the salad’s richness and bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Equipment
- Mandoline Slicer – Useful for thinly slicing the Brussels sprouts.
- Medium Mixing Bowl – For tossing the salad ingredients together.
