Confession: I have never had brussel sprouts before the other night.
This leads me to believe that one of my parents doesn’t like them, because why else would I not have been introduced to the deliciousness? I don’t know why brussel sprouts have such a bad rap as the “ew” food for kids. Seriously, think about it. Can you think of a food that is more stereotypical of one that kids are supposed to hate? It’s like the golden standard.
I was trying to come up with a good “Ingredient of the Week,” and when I passed a bag of brussel sprouts, I knew in an instant that I had my selection.
After asking around for some advice on how you possibly prepare these supposedly-atrocious mini cabbages, I was directed to a few recipes by Michael Symon, Cleveland’s main culinary claim to fame. This is close to the original recipe, but I had to eliminate the walnuts because I knew that I’d get a wrinkled nose from my husband.
Grilled Brussel Sprouts with Bacon and Mustard Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds brussel sprouts halved
- 3 tablespoonsextra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 8 ounces bacon chopped
- 2 cloves garlic sliced
- 2 tablespoonsred wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon grainy mustard
Instructions
- Toss the brussel sprouts with 2 tablespoons of the oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper on a rimmed baking sheet. Heat a grill over medium high. Add the brussel sprouts to a grill basket and grill over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until browned and tender.
- Meanwhile, add the bacon to a medium sauté pan and render over medium heat, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the bacon is crispy. Stir in the vinegar, honey and mustard with a fork. Whisk into the bacon fat until emulsified. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the brussel sprouts to a large mixing bowl, add the bacon mixture and toss well. Serve.
[…] Grilled Brussel Sprout with Bacon and Mustard Vinaigrette This quick and easy side dish is perfect for holiday meals and it’s always one of the first side dishes to disappear. Grilled Brussel Sprout with Bacon and Mustard Vinaigrette […]