SWEET & SMOKY HONEY-GLAZED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH CRISPY BACON 🥬🥓🍯 "Every bite is a little taste of comfort" Serves: 4-6 Ingredients For the Brussels sprouts: • 1½ lbs (680 g) fresh Brussels sprouts • 6–8 slices thick-cut bacon • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 3 tablespoons honey • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard • 2 cloves garlic, minced • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar For garnish: • Fresh thyme or parsley • A pinch of red pepper flakes • A drizzle of extra honey Instructions 1. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly, remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves, and trim the ends. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise. If they are particularly large, cut them into quarters. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to help them roast beautifully. 2. Prepare the bacon: Cut the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat for extra smoky flavor, if desired. 3. Make the honey glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together: • Honey • Dijon mustard • Minced garlic • Smoked paprika • Black pepper • Olive oil • Balsamic vinegar, if using Mix until everything is well combined. 4. Toss the Brussels sprouts: Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Add the honey glaze and toss until every piece is evenly coated. Spread them onto a large baking sheet in a single layer, placing the cut sides down for better caramelization. 5. Roast until golden: Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through. The Brussels sprouts should become tender inside, with beautifully browned and caramelized edges. Cooking time may vary depending on their size. 6. Add the crispy bacon: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Scatter the crispy bacon pieces over the roasted Brussels sprouts and gently toss everything together. Return to the oven for another 3–5 minutes to allow the flavors to come together. 7. Garnish and serve: Transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and a light drizzle of honey if desired. Serve warm. Serving Suggestions: This delicious side dish pairs beautifully with: • Roast chicken or turkey • Grilled pork chops • Baked salmon • Garlic mashed potatoes • A festive holiday dinner Enjoy!🥬🥓🍯