Brussels sprouts are small, leafy green buds resembling miniature cabbages. They are a rich source of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. I’m not typically a fan of brussel sprouts, but I’ve been experimenting and this recipe is my new all time favorite – yummo! I can literally sit down and eat this whole recipe. Plus it makes a great side dish to anything. You’ll really surprise your BBQ guests with how tasty AND healthy this one is…
Brussels Sprout Salad
Ingredients
16 oz Brussels sprouts {thinly sliced}
1 package of bacon or turkey bacon cut in small slices
1 TBS olive oil {a little more if you cook bacon in olive oil}
pepper to taste {add to the bacon while cooking for some extra flavor}
Instructions
- wash, then thinly slice Brussels sprouts – we pop in our food processor for some extra fun – great for kids to watch and participate in, set aside in fridge until bacon is ready to add
- slice bacon into small strips, then cook on medium heat until crips – we add tons of pepper for extra flavor, set aside and let bacon cool – if you use turkey bacon you may need a bit of olive oil to help crisp them up
- when bacon is cool add to Brussels sprout slices, squeeze juice of 1/2 lemon or lime over top, add pepper to taste and mix
- chill or eat right away – enjoy!
This recipe makes about (6) 1 cup servings with about 148 calories in each cup.
Healthy Goodness of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are low in calories, high in fiber but also provide you with 20 essential vitamins and minerals. A ½ cup serving provides 48.4 mg of vitamin C, an antioxidant, and 604 IU of vitamin A, which supports healthy eyesight. They provide more than a day’s worth of vitamin K for men and 91% for women – Vit K is important for the blood’s ability to clot and may help strengthen bones so good stuff to have enough of. It also contains tons of folate to bolster red blood cells and for women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant as it helps prevent certain neural tube defects. Have I mentioned that it contains 247 mg of potassium, which can help regulate your blood pressure and fluid balance. But they are also a good source of fiber, vitamin E, most of the B complex of vitamins, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, calcium, manganese and selenium. Brussels sprouts is a cruciferous vegetable, all of which contain compounds known as isothiocyanates, which help prevent cancer by promoting the elimination of potential carcinogens from the body. Isothiocyanates may also reduce your risk of heart attack. Man where have these things been all my life – oh ya, I hated them until I made these!
Now it’s your turn
What is your favorite Brussels sprout recipe or way to eat? Comment below to share….
Brussels sprouts photo Copyright: katrinshine / 123RF Stock Photo
