Imagine a salad that shatters every boring, bland expectation you've ever had about healthy eating. This Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon, Kamut, and Blue Cheese is not just a dish—it's a culinary adventure that combines smoky, crispy bacon, nutty kamut, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and tangy blue cheese into a symphony of flavors that will make your palate dance with excitement. Perfect for those who crave bold tastes and nutritious meals, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts, halved
- Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Kamut, cooked
- Blue cheese, crumbled
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the kamut by rinsing thoroughly and cooking according to package instructions. Typically, this involves simmering in water for about 45-50 minutes until tender but chewy. Drain and let cool to room temperature.
- While the kamut is cooking, prepare the bacon. Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces once cooled.
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise. If desired, remove any tough outer leaves.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the hot skillet, allowing them to caramelize and develop a golden-brown color. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and additional olive oil to create a simple vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the roasted Brussels sprouts, cooled kamut, crumbled bacon, and crumbled blue cheese.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinaigrette to suit your preference.
- Serve immediately while the Brussels sprouts are still warm, or allow to cool to room temperature for a refreshing salad option.
Tips
- Choose fresh Brussels sprouts with tight, vibrant green leaves for the best caramelization.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for superior browning and flavor development.
- Cook bacon until extra crispy to add maximum crunch and smokiness.
- Allow kamut to cool completely to prevent wilting the salad greens.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute turkey bacon or use less bacon.
- Toast the kamut slightly in a dry pan before adding to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for a more complex vinaigrette.
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes after dressing to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve at room temperature for optimal taste and texture.
- Experiment with different blue cheese varieties to find your perfect flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
