Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Christmas Brussels Sprouts with

Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries will surely add color and vibrancy to your holiday table! This crispy and crunchy salad might become one of your family’s favorite Christmas side dishes. Dried cranberries provide a sweet contrast to the savory Brussels sprouts. There is a bit of crunch from toasted pecans and chopped cooked Turkey Bacon, making this dish not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into your holiday cooking schedule.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of savory, sweet, and crunchy elements brings a delightful balance to each bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for Christmas dinner or any festive gathering, it complements various main courses.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with fiber from Brussels sprouts and healthy fats from pecans, it’s a wholesome addition to your meal.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into the recipe, gather the necessary tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: This helps combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the Brussels sprouts evenly and achieving that perfect crispiness.

Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts Salad

• 12 oz Brussels sprouts (ends trimmed, yellow leaves removed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 slices Turkey Bacon (cooked and chopped)
• 1 cup pecans
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

How to Make Brussels Sprouts with  Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help roast the Brussels sprouts perfectly while giving them a nice caramelized flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the trimmed Brussels sprouts.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
3. Toss until the sprouts are evenly coated.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
2. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender. Stir halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Add Turkey Bacon and Nuts

Once roasted:
1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
2. Sprinkle the chopped  Turkey Bacon and toasted pecans over the roasted Brussels sprouts.
3. Add dried cranberries for sweetness.

Step 5: Final Toss and Serve

Gently toss everything together on the baking sheet until well combined. Serve warm as a delightful side dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts with  Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Brussels Sprouts with  Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries make a delightful side dish for any occasion. Their vibrant colors and flavors can enhance your holiday table or weekday dinner.

As a Festive Side Dish

• Pair with roasted turkey for a classic holiday meal.
• Serve alongside glazed carrots for added sweetness.

In a Salad

• Toss with mixed greens for a refreshing salad option.
• Add feta cheese for a creamy contrast against the savory Brussels sprouts.

As a Breakfast Bowl

• Top with poached eggs for a hearty breakfast option.
• Include quinoa or brown rice for a filling start to the day.

For Meal Prep

• Store in airtight containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness when serving.

How to Perfect Brussels Sprouts with  Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Perfecting this dish is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to elevate your preparation:

• Trim the Brussels sprouts: Remove any yellow leaves and trim the ends for even cooking and better flavor.
• Ensure even cooking: Spread Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote browning and crispiness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pecans and cranberries enhance flavor compared to their dried counterparts.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; you can add more salt or pepper as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Brussels Sprouts with Turkey  Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the crunch of Brussels sprouts.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the main dish.
3. Cranberry Sauce: A homemade cranberry sauce adds tartness that pairs well with both turkey and Brussels sprouts.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers freshness and texture.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring out the natural sweetness of cranberries while adding color to your plate.
6. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese provides comfort alongside the crunchy vegetables.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Brussels Sprouts with  Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Brussels Sprouts: This can lead to a mushy texture. To avoid this, cook them just until tender but still bright green.
• Using Raw Turkey Bacon: Make sure the  Turkey Bacon is fully cooked and crispy before adding it to the salad. This adds flavor and crunch.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland sprouts. Always add salt and consider experimenting with other spices for extra flavor.
• Skipping Toasting the Pecans: Skipping this step can lead to less flavor. Toast the pecans lightly in a dry pan to enhance their nutty taste.
• Not Mixing Ingredients Well: Ensure that all ingredients are well combined for balanced flavors. Toss everything thoroughly before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best if used within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed through; add a splash of olive oil if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries; however, they will be more tart. You may want to adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of sugar or honey.

What if I can’t find Turkey Bacon?

You can substitute it with cooked turkey breast or shredded rotisserie turkey for a similar flavor profile.

How do I make this dish vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan-friendly, omit the turkey bacon and use mushrooms or smoked tempeh for added texture and flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all ingredients ahead of time but store them separately until just before serving to maintain freshness.

How should I serve Brussels Sprouts with  Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries?

This dish is perfect as a side at holiday meals or family gatherings. It pairs well with roasted meats and other festive dishes.

Final Thoughts

Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries make an enticing addition to any table. Their vibrant colors and crunchy textures will impress your guests. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other nuts or fruits based on your family’s preferences!