🍯 Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon (Mediterranean-Inspired)
📝 Description
These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a glossy honey-garlic glaze. Smoky bacon adds irresistible depth, while olive oil, garlic, and a touch of lemon keep the flavors bright and Mediterranean-balanced. It’s the kind of side dish that disappears before the main course hits the table.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
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500 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
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3–4 slices beef or turkey bacon, chopped (or regular bacon if preferred)
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3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or fresh lemon juice
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½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
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Optional: red chili flakes for heat
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Optional garnish: toasted almonds or sesame seeds
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. -
Prepare Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. -
Add Bacon
Scatter chopped bacon over the Brussels sprouts and mix lightly so everything cooks evenly. -
Roast
Spread in a single layer and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and caramelized. -
Make the Honey Glaze
In a small pan over low heat, combine honey, garlic, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), and chili flakes. Warm for 1–2 minutes—do not boil. -
Glaze & Finish
Remove Brussels sprouts from oven and drizzle the honey glaze over them. Toss gently and return to the oven for 5 minutes. -
Serve
Transfer to a serving dish, garnish if desired, and serve warm.
🍽 Serving Ideas
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With grilled chicken or baked salmon
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Alongside roasted lamb or turkey
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As a warm salad with feta crumbles
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On a Mediterranean mezze platter
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this recipe without bacon?
A: Yes! Replace bacon with chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or toasted nuts for a Mediterranean vegetarian version.
Q: Will the sprouts taste bitter?
A: Roasting at high heat removes bitterness and brings out natural sweetness—especially with the honey glaze.
Q: Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
A: Absolutely. Maple syrup works well and gives a deeper, slightly smoky sweetness.
Q: How do I get extra crispy Brussels sprouts?
A: Don’t overcrowd the pan and roast cut-side down for maximum caramelization.
Q: Can this be made ahead of time?
A: You can roast the sprouts ahead, but glaze them just before serving for the best texture.
