Crispy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying, these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are a true delight for your taste buds. Perfect for a quick side dish or a tasty snack, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the smoky richness of bacon. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to enjoy Brussels sprouts like never before!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures even roasting and easy cleanup.
- Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off any dry or tough stems. Slice larger sprouts in half, keeping smaller ones whole for uniform cooking.
- Drizzle the sprouts with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss them well to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, with the cut sides facing down. This positioning promotes browning and crisping of the outer leaves.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven for 20 to 30 minutes. Bake until they are tender and golden brown at the edges, adjusting the time based on their size.
- If desired, mix the roasted sprouts with lemon juice, zest, Parmesan cheese, and thyme leaves for added flavor. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes to serve.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Lemon zest (optional)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
FAQ
- What is the best way to cook Brussels sprouts to avoid bitterness?
- Roasting Brussels sprouts is a great way to avoid bitterness. The high heat helps them develop a caramelized flavor and crispy texture, unlike boiling or steaming, which can make them mushy and bitter.
- How should I prepare Brussels sprouts before roasting?
- Begin by trimming and chopping your Brussels sprouts. Remove any dry or woody stems, and halve the larger sprouts while leaving smaller ones whole. Ensuring a uniform size helps them cook evenly.
- What seasonings work well with roasted Brussels sprouts?
- A simple seasoning of olive oil, salt, and pepper is classic. You can also enhance the flavor with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, and add toppings like feta or Parmesan cheese, herbs, red pepper flakes, or nuts.
- How can I serve roasted Brussels sprouts as part of a meal?
- Roasted Brussels sprouts can be part of a main dish by incorporating them into a veggie frittata, pasta, or risotto. They also work well in grain bowls or hearty salads, paired with grains like farro or quinoa, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
- Can Brussels sprouts be enjoyed in ways other than roasting?
- Yes, Brussels sprouts can also be sautéed for pasta dishes, shredded for salads, stir-fried with grains for a quick meal, or baked into casseroles or pasta bakes.
- What are some other vegetables that are delicious when roasted?
- Other vegetables that are great for roasting include cauliflower, butternut squash, spaghetti squash, broccoli, delicata squash, sweet potatoes, beets, and tomatoes.
Tips
- Ensure Even Cooking: Trim and slice larger Brussels sprouts in half while leaving smaller ones whole, aiming for uniform size to ensure they cook evenly.
- Maximize Crispiness: Arrange the sprouts on the baking sheet with their cut sides down. This technique promotes browning on the cut sides and results in crisp, crunchy leaves.
- Customize the Flavor: After roasting, consider enhancing the sprouts with additional toppings such as balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, feta or Parmesan cheese, herbs, or nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Serving Options: Incorporate the roasted sprouts into various dishes, such as grain bowls, salads, or pasta, to create diverse and satisfying meals.
Equipment
- Parchment Paper
- Baking Sheet
