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Kid-Friendly Warm Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon and Pecans

Brussels sprout salad with bacon - featured image
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This quick and easy warm Brussels sprout salad features crispy air-fried sprouts, smoky bacon, buttery pecans, and a tangy-sweet warm bacon vinaigrette. It’s a kid-approved side dish that converts Brussels sprout haters into believers, perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons bacon drippings (reserved from cooking bacon)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Place chopped bacon in a cold skillet. Turn heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 2 tablespoons bacon drippings.
  2. Toast the pecans: While bacon cooks, add chopped pecans to a small dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 2-3 minutes, shaking frequently, until lightly golden. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim tough ends and remove yellow leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise through the stem. Quarter any large sprouts for even size.
  4. Season the sprouts: In a large bowl, toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until lightly coated.
  5. Air fry the Brussels sprouts: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place seasoned sprouts in a single layer in the basket (work in batches if needed). Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until edges are deep golden brown and centers are tender.
  6. Make the warm vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together reserved bacon drippings, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced shallot. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust to taste.
  7. Assemble the salad: Transfer hot air-fried Brussels sprouts to a large serving bowl. Pour warm vinaigrette over and toss gently. Add crispy bacon and toasted pecans, toss again. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

For best texture, let sprouts cool for 2 minutes before adding dressing to prevent sogginess. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed. For meal prep, store components separately and assemble just before serving. To reheat leftovers, use a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprout salad, warm Brussels sprout salad, kid-friendly Brussels sprouts, bacon Brussels sprouts, air fryer Brussels sprouts, holiday side dish, quick vegetable side dish

Find it online: https://cookluma.com/kid-friendly-warm-brussels-sprout-salad-with-bacon-and-pecans/