Brussels Sprouts & Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates 

Even though the holidays look a little different than what we’re used to, it doesn’t mean we can’t cultivate a special experience in the comfort of our own home! This holiday season, my side-dish of choice is roasted Brussels sprouts and goat cheese-stuffed bacon wrapped dates. They are rich and hearty and do a great job of balancing sweet and savory. The best part is, everything happens on the same sheet tray and all you have to do is pop it in the oven and let the heat work its magic. I got all of these ingredients, serving items, and cooking utensils from my pals over at ALDI. They are a one-stop shop for all of your holiday needs and they encapsulate the intersection of quality and affordability.

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Brussels Sprouts & Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates 

Serves: 4 people

Active Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise

  • Extra virgin olive oil (I used garlic-infused)

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 pound bacon, strips cut in half

  • 3-4 sprigs of thyme

  • 1, 4-ounce log goat cheese 

  • 6-8 medjool dates, pitted and halved lengthwise

  • 1 lemon, juice and zest

  • 1 serrano pepper, thinly sliced (or 1 tsp chili flake)

  • 2 tablespoons honey

  • 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)



Steps:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F

In a bowl, toss together Brussel sprouts, olive oil, kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. 

Lay the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on a rimmed baking sheet.

Slice the bacon strips in half and stuff the dates with goat cheese. Wrap the bacon around the dates and place on the same baking sheet as the Brussels sprouts, seam side down. 

Cut the remaining bacon into 1-inch pieces and scatter around the baking sheet. Place into the lower rack of the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is cooked and the Brussels sprouts are crispy. 

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice (reserve the zest for garnish), serrano pepper, honey, and vinegar. Cook over medium heat until reduced to and thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 

Place the Brussels sprouts and bacon-wrapped dates on a serving tray. Drizzle with honey reduction and serve immediately. Enjoy!

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