Warm Couscous & Brussels Sprout Salad

Warm Couscous & Brussels Sprout Salad

4 servings
Warm Couscous & Brussels Sprout Salad is made with Israeli couscous, shredded Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, shaved parmesan cheese, and an easy lemon dijon vinaigrette. It's the perfect recipe for dinner parties or a holiday side dish!  Either way, this flavorful salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • brussels sprouts

    shredded

    4 c
  • israeli couscous

    dry

    1 c
  • slices of bacon
    5
  • parmesan cheese

    shaved

    ¼ c
  • garlic cloves

    minced

    3
  • olive oil
    2 tbsp
  • lemon

    juice

    ½
  • pure maple syrup
    1 tsp
  • dijon mustard
    1 tsp
  • salt & pepper

Directions

  1. 1

    Start by cooking your couscous according to the package instructions.  Once cooked set aside.

  2. 2

    Then prepare the Brussels sprouts by washing and slicing thinly.  Also mince the garlic.

  3. 3

    Next fry the bacon in a large pan.  Once done remove from the pan & crumble. Leave the bacon grease in the pan.

  4. 4

    Add the minced garlic and shredded Brussels sprouts to the same pan you cooked the bacon in.  Add salt & pepper and sauté for about 5-10 minutes until cooked through & slightly browned.

  5. 5

    While the Brussels are cooking, prepare the vinaigrette – combine the olive oil, juice of 1/2 lemon, pure maple syrup, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.  Mix until evenly combined.

  6. 6

    Next add the cooked Brussels sprouts, couscous, bacon, and parmesan cheese to a large mixing bowl.  Add the vinaigrette on top and toss everything together.

  7. 7

    Serve warm & enjoy!

Warm Couscous & Brussels Sprout Salad

Warm Couscous & Brussels Sprout Salad

40 min4 servings

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About this Recipe

Looking for a side dish that effortlessly balances comforting warmth with vibrant freshness? This Warm Couscous & Brussels Sprout Salad is a showstopper, designed to impress at dinner parties or elevate any holiday meal.

Why This Salad Works

This recipe shines by bringing together a thoughtful array of textures and flavors. The substantial chew of Israeli couscous perfectly contrasts with the delicate, crisp bite of fresh, shredded Brussels sprouts. Each forkful is enriched by savory, crispy bacon and the nutty richness of shaved parmesan cheese, all tied together with an easy-to-make, bright lemon dijon vinaigrette. It's a harmonious blend that's both satisfying and elegantly simple.

What to Expect

Imagine a forkful where tender, pearl-like Israeli couscous mingles with subtly earthy, crisp-tender Brussels sprouts. The creamy yet firm couscous provides a wonderful base, absorbing the tangy lemon dijon vinaigrette, which boasts a delightful hint of sweetness from pure maple syrup. Each bite is punctuated by the salty, smoky crunch of bacon and the luxurious melt of shaved parmesan. This salad offers a genuinely balanced experience—savory, sweet, tangy, and textural—making it a deeply flavorful addition to any table. It's a testament to how simple, quality ingredients can create something truly special.

Customization & Variations

While delicious as written, this warm salad is wonderfully adaptable. For a delightful vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon, or replace it with toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch. You could also swap the shaved parmesan for crumbled goat cheese or feta for a tangier profile. If you're short on fresh lemon, a good quality apple cider vinegar can provide a similar brightness to the vinaigrette.

Serving & Context

This versatile Warm Couscous & Brussels Sprout Salad makes an outstanding side for elegant dinner parties, festive holiday meals, or even a sophisticated weeknight dinner. Serve it warm to fully appreciate its comforting embrace and allow the flavors to truly sing.

Frequently Asked Questions