Side Dish Dreams: Thanksgiving Recipes That Leave a Lasting Impression

Quick Overview Section:

Recipe Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 from readers)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: Serves 6
Calories: 180 per serving

Introduction:

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. One of my favorite side dishes that never fails to impress guests is the Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pecans. This dish fuses sweet and savory with a delightful crunch, creating a perfect balance that complements the hearty Thanksgiving feast. With ingredients that are both healthy and festive, this recipe truly embodies everything I love about this holiday. Plus, it’s gluten-free and has a vegan option, making it perfect for diverse dietary preferences!

Ingredients List:

• Brussels sprouts: 1 ½ pounds, trimmed and halved
• Bacon: 6 slices (or use vegan bacon for a vegetarian option)
• Pecans: 1 cup, roughly chopped
• Maple syrup: ¼ cup
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Salt: ½ teaspoon
• Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon

Optional Substitutions:

• Bacon: Substitute with tempeh bacon for a vegan alternative.
• Maple syrup: Use agave syrup or honey (if not vegan) for sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and crumble when cool.
3. Toss the Brussels sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, combine halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread on a Baking sheet: Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a Baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20 minutes: Bake until the sprouts are golden brown and tender, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
6. Add glaze: Remove from the oven and drizzle maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts. Add the crumbled bacon and chopped pecans, then toss to combine.
7. Return to the oven: Bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Serve warm: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy alongside your Thanksgiving feast.

Tips and Tricks Section:

• For even crispier Brussels sprouts, consider soaking them in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking to remove some of their bitterness.
• If you’re short on time, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts a day in advance; they roast up quickly!
• Drizzling a little balsamic vinegar over the dish before serving can add a tangy finish that brightens the flavors.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Macronutrients:
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Micronutrients:
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg

Recipe Notes:

• This dish can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
• Pair these Brussels sprouts with a tangy cranberry sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs:

1. How do I store leftovers?

   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I reheat these Brussels sprouts?

   • Yes, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

3. What can I use in place of bacon?

   • You can use tempeh bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option.

4. Can I freeze Brussels sprouts before cooking?

   • Yes, blanch them first, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag.
5. What other nuts can I use instead of pecans?
   • Walnuts or almonds are good alternatives and add a unique flavor.

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Recipe Card: Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pecans

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• Brussels sprouts: 1 ½ pounds, trimmed and halved
• Bacon: 6 slices (or use vegan bacon)
• Pecans: 1 cup, roughly chopped
• Maple syrup: ¼ cup
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Salt: ½ teaspoon
• Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread on a Baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
5. Drizzle maple syrup, add bacon and pecans, toss, and bake for another 10 minutes.
6. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 200 mg

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