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Brussel Sprouts With Bacon Dates And Apples
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Brussel Sprouts with Bacon, Dates, and Apples

This recipe transforms brussel sprouts into a flavorful dish by combining them with smoky turkey bacon, sweet dates, and crisp apples, creating a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Keyword: Easy, Healthy, Quick, Savory, Sweet, Vegetable
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh brussel sprouts trimmed and halved
  • 4 slices turkey bacon chopped
  • 1 cup pitted dates chopped
  • 1 medium apple such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, cored and diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional, for added crunch

Instructions

  • Start by washing and trimming the brussel sprouts. Cut each sprout in half to ensure they cook evenly and get a nice caramelized edge. Set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the rendered fat in the skillet for extra flavor.
  • Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the turkey bacon fat and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the halved brussel sprouts and stir to coat them in the oil and onion mixture. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sprouts are tender and caramelized on the edges.
  • Toss in the diced apples and chopped dates, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the apples to soften slightly but remain crisp and the dates to warm through and release their sweetness.
  • Return the cooked turkey bacon to the skillet. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and stir well to combine all the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added texture.
  • Transfer the brussel sprouts mixture to a serving dish and enjoy immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as a hearty vegetarian option when turkey bacon is omitted.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Paper Towel-lined Plate

Notes

Choose fresh, firm brussel sprouts with vibrant green leaves for best results. Halve the sprouts evenly to ensure even cooking and caramelization. Use turkey bacon for a leaner alternative. Apple cider vinegar adds bright acidity that balances sweetness. For a crispy finish, roast the brussel sprouts first before tossing with other ingredients. Adjust sweetness by choosing tart or sweet apple varieties. Variations include omitting bacon for vegetarian version, adding spices for heat, or substituting fruits and nuts.