Looking for a delicious and healthy side dish? Look no further than our Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake! With just 150 Calories per 1/2 cup serving, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients.
Brussel sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable, meaning they are high in vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. Bacon adds a savory touch to this dish, while also providing a source of protein.
In this article, we'll explore the Health benefits of Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake, share tips for preparing and storing this dish, and suggest some delicious serving ideas.
Calories in Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake
A 1/2 cup (118 g) serving of Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake contains 150 Calories. This makes it a great option for those watching their calorie intake, while still being able to enjoy a flavorful and filling side dish.
Ingredients in Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake
The ingredients in Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake are simple and nutritious. They include: Brussel sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Health Benefits of Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake
Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake has numerous Health benefits, thanks to its high nutrient content. Brussel sprouts are a great source of fiber, vitamins C and K, folate, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants, which help to fight inflammation and protect against disease. Bacon, while often associated with unhealthy foods, can also have some benefits when consumed in moderation. It is a good source of protein and contains B vitamins and minerals such as zinc and selenium.
Preparation of Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake
To make Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake, start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Rinse the Brussel sprouts and trim the ends, then cut them in half. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then remove from heat and crumble into small pieces. In a large bowl, toss the Brussel sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the sprouts evenly in a baking dish, then sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy.
Flavor Profile of Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake
Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake has a savory and slightly sweet flavor, with the smokiness of the bacon complementing the nuttiness of the sprouts. The texture is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making it a delicious and satisfying side dish.
Serving Suggestions for Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake
Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Try serving it with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. You can also add some sweetness to the dish by drizzling maple syrup over the top before baking. For a complete meal, pair Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake with a quinoa salad or roasted sweet potatoes.
Storage Suggestions for Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake
If you have leftover Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake, let it cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the desired amount of Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake contains pork, so it is not suitable for those following a vegetarian or kosher diet. If you are allergic to pork or have other dietary restrictions, you can easily modify the recipe by omitting the bacon or substituting it with a plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh.
Nutritional Benefits of Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake
In addition to being low in Calories, Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake is also a good source of several key nutrients. A 1/2 cup serving provides:
- 5 grams of protein
- 6 grams of fiber
- 25% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C
- 137% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K
- 10% of the daily recommended intake of potassium
Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake vs. Other Side Dishes
Compared to other common side dishes, Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake is a healthy and flavorful option. Let's take a look at how it stacks up:
- Mashed potatoes: A 1/2 cup serving of mashed potatoes contains approximately 150 Calories, but is higher in carbs and lower in fiber and vitamins than Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake.
- Green bean casserole: A 1/2 cup serving of green bean casserole contains approximately 220 calories and is often made with high-fat ingredients like cream of mushroom soup and fried onions, making it a less healthy option than Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake.
- Corn on the cob: A medium-sized ear of corn contains approximately 80-100 calories, but is lower in fiber and vitamins than Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake.
"The Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake is a delicious and nutrient-packed side dish that is easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main courses."
Frequently Asked Questions about Brussel sprouts & Bacon Bake
1. What are the ingredients in Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake?
Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake typically contains brussel sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Is Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake healthy?
While Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake does contain nutritious ingredients like brussel sprouts, it is also high in Calories and saturated fat due to the bacon. As with all foods, moderation is key.
3. How can I make Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake lower in calories?
You can make Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake lower in calories by using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and reducing the amount of olive oil used in the recipe.
4. How do I cook Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake?
To cook Brussel Sprouts & Bacon Bake, preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the brussel sprouts in half and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a baking dish. Add chopped bacon and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the brussel sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy.
5. What are some other ways to cook brussel sprouts?
Brussel sprouts can be roasted, grilled, sautéed, or boiled. They can also be used in salads, stir-frys, or as a side dish. Experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to find your favorite way to enjoy brussel sprouts.