Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Salad: A Flavor-Packed, Nutrient-Rich Dish

There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that balances crispy, smoky, and sweet flavors—and this Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Salad does exactly that. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course, this salad delivers a perfect combination of textures and tastes.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into:
✔ Why this salad is a must-try
✔ Step-by-step instructions (with pro tips!)
✔ Nutritional benefits of Brussels sprouts and bacon
✔ Variations & substitutions for dietary needs
✔ Serving suggestions & pairings
✔ Frequently asked questions

By the end, you’ll be ready to make the best Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Salad—one that’s crispy, savory, and drizzled with a sweet-tangy maple-mustard vinaigrette.

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Why You’ll Love This Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Salad

This salad is more than just a mix of greens—it’s a flavor explosion that brings together:

🔥 Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts – Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and adds a satisfying crunch.
🥓 Smoky, crispy bacon – Because everything tastes better with bacon!
🍯 Sweet & tangy maple-mustard vinaigrette – The perfect balance of flavors.
🌿 Fresh greens (romaine or arugula) – For a light, refreshing contrast.

It’s quick to prepare (just 15 minutes of prep!), nutrient-dense, and versatile enough to serve as a side or main dish.

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Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Salad

Main Salad Components

✅ 3 cups Brussels sprouts, halved – Fresh sprouts work best for optimal crispiness.
✅ 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps the sprouts roast evenly.
✅ 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped – Thick-cut bacon adds extra smokiness.
✅ 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced – Adds a mild bite and crunch.
✅ 2 cups romaine or arugula – Romaine is crisp, while arugula adds a peppery kick.

Maple-Mustard Vinaigrette

✅ 2 tbsp olive oil – The base of the dressing.
✅ 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Adds tang and depth.
✅ 1 tbsp maple syrup – A natural sweetener that pairs perfectly with bacon.
✅ 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Brightens the flavors.
✅ Salt & black pepper to taste – Enhances all the ingredients.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Brussels Sprouts

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

• Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer (crowding leads to steaming, not crisping!).

• Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

🔹 Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes.

2. Cook the Bacon

• Pan-fry or bake bacon until crispy.

• Chop into bite-sized pieces.

🔹 Pro Tip: Save bacon fat for roasting veggies or frying eggs—it adds incredible flavor!

3. Make the Maple-Mustard Vinaigrette

• Whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.

🔹 Pro Tip: Adjust sweetness/tanginess by adding more maple syrup or vinegar.

4. Assemble the Salad

• Layer greens (romaine or arugula) on a platter.

• Top with roasted Brussels sprouts, bacon, and red onion.

• Drizzle with vinaigrette just before serving.

🔹 Serving Suggestion: Add crumbled goat cheese or toasted pecans for extra richness.

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Nutritional Benefits of Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Salad

This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients:

✔ Brussels sprouts – High in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K (supports immunity and bone health).
✔ Bacon – Provides protein and healthy fats (in moderation).
✔ Leafy greens – Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A & K.
✔ Maple syrup – A natural sweetener with manganese and zinc.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~290

• Protein: 9g

• Fiber: 5g

• Carbs: 15g

• Fat: 20g

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Variations & Substitutions

Dietary Adjustments

🌱 Vegetarian? Swap bacon for smoked tofu or tempeh bacon.
🥑 Keto? Reduce maple syrup or use a sugar-free substitute.
🧀 Extra Creaminess? Add blue cheese, feta, or avocado.

Flavor Twists

🌶 Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the dressing.
🍎 Fruity Sweetness: Toss in dried cranberries or apple slices.
🌰 Crunchy Texture: Top with walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds.

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Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Perfect for:

✔ Holiday dinners (Thanksgiving, Christmas)
✔ Weeknight meals (Quick & satisfying)
✔ Meal prep (Stores well for 2–3 days)

Best Pairings:

🍗 Proteins: Grilled chicken, salmon, or steak
🍞 Sides: Crusty bread, wild rice, or mashed potatoes
🍷 Drinks: Crisp white wine (Sauvignon Blanc) or sparkling cider

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Roast Brussels sprouts and cook bacon in advance, but assemble just before serving to keep greens fresh.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days (dressing separately to prevent sogginess).

3. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh is best for roasting, but thaw and pat dry frozen sprouts before roasting.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure your bacon and mustard are gluten-free.

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Final Thoughts: Why This Salad is a Winner

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Salad is:
✅ Easy to make (under 45 minutes!)
✅ Packed with flavor & texture (crunchy, smoky, sweet, tangy)
✅ Nutritious & satisfying (high in fiber, protein, and vitamins)