Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Bacon

Name: Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Bacon
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 lbs Brussels sprouts; 5 thick slices of bacon; ½ cup La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 5 oz pecans; 1 pomegranate; Salt, to taste

Appetizer side dish

Elevating Brussels Sprouts: A Perfect Side Dish

It’s official: Brussels sprouts are making a comeback, and this recipe is the perfect way to get creative with this unique and tasty ingredient.

Ingredients

2 lbs Brussels sprouts
5 thick slices of bacon
½ cup La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil
5 oz pecans
1 pomegranate
Salt, to taste

preparation

1.

Trim the base of the Brussels sprouts and remove any damaged or wilted outer leaves. Slice them in half. Boil the Brussels sprouts in salted water for 7 minutes, ensuring they remain tender but not overcooked. Drain and set aside.
2.

Cut the bacon into thin strips. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook until they begin to turn golden and crispy.
3.

Add the boiled Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the bacon and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sprouts are golden and slightly caramelized. Toss in the halved pecans and cook for another minute to toast them lightly.
4.

Remove the seeds from the pomegranate and sprinkle them over the Brussels sprouts mixture just before serving. Serve warm, as a side dish, or as a light main course.

Brussels Sprouts: A Culinary Renaissance

Once overlooked, Brussels sprouts have made a comeback as a versatile and flavorful vegetable. In the United States, they’ve become a staple on holiday tables and restaurant menus, especially when paired with bacon or roasted to perfection. Their nutty, slightly bitter flavor balances beautifully with savory bacon, crunchy pecans, and the sweet tang of pomegranate.

The Secret Ingredient: Olive Oil

Using high-quality olive oil is essential for bringing out the best in this dish. La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) or a high-quality olive oil such as La Española Classic Olive Oil, with its mild flavor, ensures a perfect sauté, adding depth without overpowering the other ingredients.

Why Olive Oil?

1. Enhanced Flavor: The subtle fruitiness of olive oil complements both the earthy Brussels sprouts and the flavorful bacon.

2. Health Benefits: Packed with antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, olive oil adds nutritional value to every bite.

Adding Depth with Bacon and Pecans

The crispy, salty notes of bacon contrast perfectly with the softness of the sprouts. Opt for thick-cut bacon to ensure a chewy yet crispy texture that doesn’t get lost in the dish. Likewise, pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor that elevates this dish. Toasting them briefly in the skillet enhances their aroma and creates a satisfying texture.

Pomegranate: A Sweet Finishing Touch

The jewel-like seeds of pomegranate not only add a burst of sweetness but also bring a fresh, tart contrast to the richness of the dish. Their vibrant color adds visual appeal, making this recipe perfect for special occasions or festive dinners.

Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts

Don’t Overcook: overcooking Brussels sprouts can make them mushy and overly bitter. Boiling for 7 minutes ensures they retain their tender texture without losing their vibrant green color.
Caramelization is Key: sautéing the Brussels sprouts in olive oil after boiling creates a caramelized, crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
Balance the Flavors: the combination of salty (bacon), sweet (pomegranate), nutty (pecans), and earthy (Brussels sprouts) creates a balanced and flavorful dish. Don’t skip any of these components!

Creative Variations

Add Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or Parmesan shavings over the dish for added richness.
Substitute Pecans: Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different nutty profile.
Sweeten the Dish: Drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts while sautéing for an extra layer of sweetness.

Bring Flavor to Veggie-Forward Recipes with Olive Oil

We all know how important it is to incorporate fresh vegetables into our diet, but what’s the best way to make these ingredients more enticing? Well, it’s simple. Cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil adds flavor and nutrients to everything from salads, to soups, to fried recipes such as our exquisite Sautéed Green Beans. Alternatively, if you’re looking for ways to boost the flavor in your salad recipes, check out our guide to Olive Oil & Salads. In short, the sky’s the limit when you cook with Olive Oil.