Prepare to transform the most misunderstood vegetable into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have even the pickiest eaters begging for seconds! This Brussels Sprouts, Grapes, and Bacon recipe is not just a side dish - it's a culinary revelation that perfectly balances crispy, sweet, and savory flavors in one incredible dish. Imagine caramelized Brussels sprouts, crisp bacon, and juicy grapes coming together in a symphony of taste that will completely revolutionize your dinner table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Wash Brussels sprouts thoroughly and trim off the stem ends, then slice each sprout in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
- Rinse grapes and carefully slice them in half, removing any stems or seeds.
- Chop the bacon into small, roughly 1/2-inch pieces to help them crisp evenly during roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine halved Brussels sprouts, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss ingredients until Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
- Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a large rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer without overcrowding to promote proper caramelization.
- Sprinkle chopped bacon pieces evenly over the Brussels sprouts.
- Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- During the last 5 minutes of roasting, add halved grapes to the baking sheet to warm them slightly and integrate their flavors.
- Remove from oven when Brussels sprouts are caramelized, bacon is crisp, and grapes are warm but not mushy.
- Transfer to a serving dish and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately while still warm, ensuring each portion has a mix of crispy Brussels sprouts, bacon, and sweet grapes.
Tips
- Always choose fresh Brussels sprouts with tight, bright green leaves to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to cut Brussels sprouts in half to maximize caramelization and create those irresistible crispy edges.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give your ingredients space to roast, not steam. This ensures perfect crispiness.
- Use high-quality thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Add grapes in the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy while still warming through.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before serving.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after roasting to allow flavors to meld together perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
