The aroma of crispy bacon mingling with the sweet scent of fresh apples is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Imagine digging into a Fall Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Apple, where each bite delivers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavors that scream autumn. perfect side for your salad This salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience that will transport you straight to your favorite cozy fall gathering.
I remember the first time I whipped this dish up for a gathering. My friends were skeptical about Brussels sprouts, but one taste, and I had them converted faster than you can say “more bacon, please!” This salad brings together the best of seasonal produce and savory ingredients, making it perfect for Thanksgiving or any crisp fall evening. For more inspiration, check out this Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Fall Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Apple is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- The combination of sweet apples and salty bacon creates a flavor explosion in your mouth
- Its stunning presentation will impress your guests at any dinner party
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a light lunch or a hearty side dish alongside your favorite protein
I still chuckle thinking about my friend’s face when she declared herself a “Brussels sprouts hater,” only to devour half the bowl in one sitting!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm and bright green sprouts; they should feel heavy for their size.
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Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch; it adds that irresistible smoky flavor. great addition to brunch.
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Apple: Choose a tart variety like Granny Smith for a refreshing contrast to the salty bacon.
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Red Onion: This adds sweetness and color; slice it thinly for even distribution throughout the salad.
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Dijon Mustard: A little mustard gives an extra zing to the dressing; it balances out the sweetness perfectly.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor; it makes everything taste better.
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Maple Syrup: Just a drizzle enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and Brussels sprouts.
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Pecans or Walnuts: These add crunch and nuttiness; toast them lightly for maximum flavor.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together; don’t skimp on these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Brussels Sprouts: Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and trim off any brown ends. Slice them in half lengthwise to maximize that crispy texture.
Crisp Up The Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the last thing you want is burned bacon bits ruining your salad.
Sauté The Veggies: Remove cooked bacon from skillet but leave drippings behind. Toss in sliced red onions and sauté until translucent, around 3-4 minutes. The aroma will have you swooning.
Add The Brussels Sprouts: Stir in halved Brussels sprouts into the skillet with onions. Cook on medium-high heat until they start browning, roughly 6-8 minutes. You want them nicely caramelized!
Toss In The Apples: Add diced apples to your skillet along with Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything is combined and warmed through—about 2 minutes will do.
Add Back The Bacon: Finally, toss your crispy bacon back into the mix along with toasted nuts of choice. Give everything one last stir so those flavors mingle together beautifully—serve warm or at room temperature! For more inspiration, check out this Country Ranch Green Beans with Bacon recipe.
This Fall Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Apple is not just another salad; it’s an adventure on your plate that combines textures and flavors seamlessly! another delicious salad option.
You Must Know
- This Fall Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Apple is not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser
- The crispy bacon, sweet apples, and crunchy sprouts create a delightful flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Brighten up your fall gatherings with this vibrant salad!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the Brussels sprouts until golden brown while you prepare the dressing and toppings. This method maximizes flavor and ensures everything is ready at once.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the bacon for crispy chickpeas or add toasted nuts for extra crunch. Customize your salad to match your taste preferences!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold or reheat gently in a skillet to maintain crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance flavors, make sure to season each layer of your salad well
- Don’t skip roasting the sprouts; it transforms them!
- Always taste and adjust your dressing before adding it to ensure perfection
Sharing this recipe with friends brought back memories of my first Thanksgiving dinner. Everyone loved this salad, and I felt like a culinary superstar that day!
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients ahead but add dressing just before serving for freshness.
What can I use instead of bacon?
Try using crispy tofu or smoked tempeh for a vegetarian option that still packs flavor. a unique vegetarian dish.
How do I choose fresh Brussels sprouts?
Look for firm, tightly packed sprouts without yellow leaves; freshness equals better flavor!
Fall Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Apple
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Fall Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Apple is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. With crispy bacon, sweet tart apples, and roasted Brussels sprouts, this salad offers a refreshing crunch and a flavor explosion in every bite. Ideal for Thanksgiving or any cozy fall gathering, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 large Granny Smith apple, diced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse Brussels sprouts under cold water and remove any brown ends.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Remove bacon but leave drippings.
- Sauté sliced red onions in the leftover drippings until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Add halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet and cook until browned (6-8 minutes).
- Stir in diced apple, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Return crispy bacon and toasted nuts to the skillet; mix well and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
