Description
Brussels Sprouts & Kale Salad with Warm Bacon is a hearty, nutrient-packed salad tossed in a warm, savory bacon dressing. The shredded Brussels sprouts and kale are tender yet crisp, balanced with smoky bacon and a tangy-sweet dressing for a satisfying side or light main.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 3 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- ¼ cup toasted nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Brussels sprouts and kale by washing, trimming, and shredding. Place them in a large salad bowl.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.
- Add garlic to the bacon drippings and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Whisk in apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to create the warm dressing.
- Pour warm dressing over Brussels sprouts and kale. Toss well to coat.
- Top with crispy bacon, Parmesan cheese, and toasted nuts if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Massage the kale with a little olive oil beforehand for extra tenderness.
- For a sweeter salad, add dried cranberries or sliced apples.
- Make it heartier by topping with grilled chicken or salmon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: brussels sprouts salad, kale salad, warm bacon dressing, low carb salad, hearty salad recipe