Name: Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Sweet Maple Bacon Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Shredded Brussels Sprouts (Can use bagged shredded sprouts for convenience.); 1/4 cup Shallot (Can substitute with red onion if unavailable.); 4 slices Thick-cut Bacon (Use turkey bacon for a lighter option.); 1/4 cup Sliced Almonds (Can substitute with walnuts or pecans.); 2 tbsp Dried Cranberries (Use raisins as a substitute if needed.); 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated; can be omitted for dairy-free version.); 1 tsp Rendered Bacon Fat (Use olive oil for a vegetarian option.); 2 tsp Maple Syrup (Agave syrup can be used for a vegan substitute.); 2 tsp Dijon Mustard (Whole grain mustard is a good alternative.); 1 tsp Lemon Juice (Vinegar can be used as a replacement.); 2 tsp Olive Oil (Vegetable oil can be used instead.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sizzling bacon filled the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite cozy café. With the brisk weather nudging us toward heartier fare, I knew it was time to whip up a Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Bacon Dressing. This warm salad is not only sensational but also a small-batch delight that offers a beautiful balance of savory bacon, crunchy almonds, and sweet cranberries. In just 20 minutes, you can create a dish that’s perfect as a side for festive gatherings or a vibrant light meal. It’s quick to prepare and sure to impress, making it a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight dinners. Are you ready to bring some warmth and flavor to your table?

Why Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad?

Deliciously Balanced: The combination of crispy bacon and sweet cranberries creates an irresistible blend of flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Simple Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, making it an excellent choice for any home chef.
Versatile Side Dish: This salad pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can stand alone as a light meal, just like our Cucumber Salad Refresh.
Nutty Crunch: Toasted almonds add a delightful crunch, elevating the dish’s texture and making each bite a delightful experience.
Healthy Indulgence: With its balance of nutrients, this salad is not just flavorful but also packed with health benefits from vegetables and nuts, making it an appealing option for health-conscious diners.

Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Thick-cut Bacon – Provides a savory, smoky flavor and renders fat used in the dressing; use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Shallot – Adds a mild onion flavor; about 1/4 cup sliced; substitute with red onion if unavailable.
Shredded Brussels Sprouts (8 oz) – The base of the salad, providing crunch and nutrition; bagged shredded sprouts can save time.
Sliced Almonds (1/4 cup) – Adds additional crunch and nuttiness; can substitute with walnuts or pecans if preferred.
Dried Cranberries (2 tbsp) – Introduces a touch of sweetness to balance the savory ingredients; use raisins if cranberries are not available.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for finishing; enhances flavor with a nutty note; can be omitted for a dairy-free version.

For the Dressing

Rendered Bacon Fat (1 tsp) – Used for the dressing base, providing a rich flavor; substitute with olive oil for a vegetarian option.
Maple Syrup (2 tsp) – Sweetens the dressing naturally; consider using agave syrup for a vegan substitute.
Dijon Mustard (2 tsp) – Sharpness adds depth; can replace with whole grain mustard for a different texture.
Lemon Juice (1 tsp) – Adds acidity to balance the dressing; replace with vinegar if needed.
Olive Oil (2 tsp) – For dressing emulsification; use vegetable oil as an alternative.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by thinningly slicing 8 ounces of Brussels sprouts and 1/4 cup of shallots, ensuring they are evenly cut for consistent cooking. Next, cut the thick-cut bacon into 1/2 inch pieces. This prep will have your kitchen smelling delicious as you get ready to whip up a warm Brussels sprouts salad that’s sure to impress!

Step 2: Toast Almonds
In a non-stick pan, heat over medium heat and add 1/4 cup of sliced almonds. Toast them for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Watch closely to prevent burning; this step will add crunch to your warm Brussels sprouts salad, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

Step 3: Cook Bacon
With the almonds set aside, add the chopped bacon to the same pan over medium heat. Cook until it renders most of its fat but isn’t yet crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This rendered bacon fat will be a key ingredient in your dressing, adding flavor to the warm salad. Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and set aside some bacon fat for the dressing.

Step 4: Make Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the reserved bacon fat with 2 teaspoons of maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Whisk in 2 teaspoons of olive oil until you achieve a creamy consistency. Taste and season as needed; the dressing should balance the savory bacon with a hint of sweetness, perfectly complementing your warm Brussels sprouts salad.

Step 5: Cook Shallots and Brussels Sprouts
Return the pan to medium heat and add the sliced shallots. Cook for about 2 minutes until they become translucent and softened. Next, add the prepared Brussels sprouts, stirring frequently for 3 to 4 minutes until they wilt but remain slightly crunchy. This will give the warm salad a delightful texture and depth of flavor.

Step 6: Combine and Serve
Transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts and shallots to a serving bowl. Drizzle with the prepared dressing, then gently fold in the toasted almonds and 2 tablespoons of dried cranberries. Finish the warm Brussels sprouts salad with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor, and serve it warm for an incredibly satisfying dish.

Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad Variations

Embrace creativity in the kitchen by tailoring this warm Brussels sprouts salad to your unique taste!

Vegan Version: Use plant-based bacon and omit cheese. Replace bacon fat with olive oil for a deliciously satisfying twist. Your friends won’t even miss the meat!
Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, feta, or chickpeas to make it a more filling meal. Adding these will not only boost the protein content but also enhance the flavor profile even further!
Different Nuts: Substitute the almonds with walnuts or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. This simple switch can create new flavor notes while maintaining that delightful crunch.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. This small adjustment can elevate the flavor and add an exciting kick.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dressing for an extra bright citrus flavor. It’ll awaken your taste buds and add a lovely aroma to the dish.
Sweet Substitution: Swap dried cranberries for pomegranate seeds or fresh apple slices. This will give your salad a refreshing crunch and a zing of sweetness that harmonices beautifully with the savory elements.
Creamy Twist: For a richer dressing, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or mayo to the mix. This creates a creamy contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Hearty Grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro to transform the salad into a wholesome grain bowl. This will encourage you to indulge and feel full!

Consider pairing this warm salad with other delightful dishes like our Cucumber Salad Refresh or even serving it up with some irresistible S’mores Hand Pies for dessert. Enjoy the versatility!

Storage Tips for Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad

Room Temperature: Enjoy your warm Brussels sprouts salad fresh for the best texture and flavor; avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The salad will lose some of its crunch but will still taste delicious!

Freezer: This salad is not ideal for freezing, as the Brussels sprouts can become watery and lose texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating: To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain a pleasant temperature without cooking further.

What to Serve with Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad

Enhance your dining experience by pairing this warm salad with delightful accompaniments that complement its rich flavors.

Roasted Chicken: The juicy and savory notes of roasted chicken beautifully contrast with the crispy bacon and sweet cranberries.
Crispy Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side that offers a satisfying texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, wholesome grain adds an earthy dimension to your meal while being a nutritious companion.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes the maple dressing, creating a lovely balance of flavors across your plate.
Herb-Seasoned Potatoes: Crisp, seasoned potatoes provide a comforting, starchy element that pairs wonderfully with the salad’s freshness.
White Wine Spritzer: This refreshing drink’s light bubbliness and citrus notes can elevate the dining experience, harmonizing with the salad’s richness.
Cheesecake Bites: A sweet finish to your meal, these creamy bites contrast well with the savory salad and leave a lingering satisfaction.

Tips for the Best Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad

Choose Quality Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a richer flavor that renders plenty of fat. This is essential for your warm Brussels sprouts salad dressing.
Slice Evenly: To ensure uniform cooking, slice Brussels sprouts and shallots consistently. This prevents some pieces from becoming overcooked while others remain crunchy.
Don’t Rush the Toasting: Toast almonds slowly over medium heat. Rushing can lead to burning, which would detract from the salad’s delightful crunchy texture.
Taste Your Dressing: Always taste and adjust your homemade dressing before serving. Balancing sweetness and acidity makes a huge difference in your warm Brussels sprouts salad.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve this salad warm right after combining the ingredients. Leftovers can be repurposed but won’t be as delightful!

Make Ahead Options

These Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Bacon Dressing are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prep the Brussels sprouts, shallots, and bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply thinly slice the Brussels sprouts and shallots, and cook the bacon until it renders fat but is not crispy. Store the veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, just reheat the bacon in a pan, prepare the dressing by whisking the reserved bacon fat with maple syrup and Dijon mustard, and finish cooking the Brussels sprouts and shallots for a quick, mouthwatering meal. This technique ensures every bite remains as delicious and fresh as if you made it just now!

Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Bacon Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, compact heads with vibrant green color. Avoid those with yellowed leaves or dark spots, as they may indicate overripeness. Fresh sprouts should feel heavy for their size, and the leaves should be tightly packed together, hinting at their crispiness.

How long can I store the Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad?
Very! Store your warm Brussels sprouts salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the salad will lose some crunch over time, the flavors will develop further, making it delicious for a quick lunch or snack. Just remember, it’s best enjoyed fresh right when it’s made for optimal texture and taste!

Can I freeze the Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad?
Not recommended! Freezing this salad is not ideal, as the Brussels sprouts will become mushy and waterlogged upon thawing, losing their delightful crunch. Instead, I suggest enjoying it fresh or combining any leftovers with cooked grains for a different dish, such as a nourishing grain bowl!

What if my dressing is too sweet?
Don’t worry if your dressing turns out a bit sweeter than expected! You can balance it by adding a splash more lemon juice or a dash of vinegar for acidity. If it’s still too sweet after that, consider mixing in a bit more Dijon mustard to amp up the savory flavor—keep tasting until it meets your preference!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This warm Brussels sprouts salad contains bacon and Parmesan cheese, which may not be suitable for everyone. For a vegan version, simply substitute the bacon with plant-based alternatives and omit the cheese. Make sure to check for nut allergies as well if you’re serving it to guests; you can always swap almonds for sunflower seeds for a nut-free option!