Copenhagen Brussels Sprouts
Crispy bacon complements tender Brussels sprouts in this savory dish, enhanced with tangy Italian dressing, pimentos, and mushrooms for a flavorful, versatile side suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook Brussels sprouts until tender, then drain off liquid.
- Mix Italian dressing, pimentos, and sliced mushrooms together and heat.
- Pour the dressing mixture over the cooked Brussels sprouts.
- Fry bacon until crisp, then crumble on top of the Brussels sprouts.
- Serve warm or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting balsamic vinaigrette for the Italian dressing for a richer flavor. If you prefer a meatless version, you can omit the bacon and use smoked paprika to add depth. Be sure to cook the Brussels sprouts until they're bright green and tender, but avoid overcooking to maintain their vibrant color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Copenhagen Brussels sprouts make a delightful side dish for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners. They pair beautifully with Baked Fresh Ham With Sherry Baste or can be served alongside grilled meats. For a complete meal, consider adding a grain such as quinoa or serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave them, covered, at medium power until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Copenhagen Brussels Sprouts contains roughly 128 calories, with 8g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (149% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and dressing mixture in advance. Simply cook the sprouts and mix the dressing, then store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine and heat them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for Brussels sprouts?
If you can't find Brussels sprouts, you can use green beans or asparagus as a substitute. Both vegetables can be cooked similarly and will absorb the flavors of the dressing well, although the texture will be slightly different.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can enhance the flavor by adding a bit of smoked salt or liquid smoke to the dressing, which will provide a similar depth without the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).