Warm Brussels sprouts salad is not to be taken lightly. This is a big-spoon situation. The ideal serving size of will unabashedly dwarf whatever else on the plate has the nerve to call itself the “main” dish. Salty-sweet-nutty-crunchy-creamy this Brussels sprouts and farro salad is a flavor bonanza that steals the dinner show, no apologies. Now, if you paused at the words “Brussels Sprouts,” fear not. High temperature oven roasting transforms the little green guys into caramelized vegetable candy. (We gobble these oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts right off the pan!). Yes, I just typed the words “vegetable candy.” Did I mention there’s bacon? Speaking of bacon…maple syrup. As the reviews on these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts can attest, it makes for a magnificent combination. We add a touch of maple syrup to the dressing for that perfect sweet balance our salty bacon and blue cheese demand. Maple syrup and walnuts are mutual friends, plus walnuts boast a killer crunch factor, so let’s add them too. Recap: our salad is officially loaded with goodies!
Toasty toasty Brussels SproutsBig blue cheeseThick-cut baconCrunchy walnuts.
Now, all we need is the right vehicle to hold our tasty elements together. Enter: farro. If you are not familiar with farro, it is a whole grain with a pleasantly firm texture and nutty flavor. Farro is a fabulous addition to pilafs, soups, salads (like today’s recipe and this crowd favorite Italian Farro Salad), and you can even use it to make healthy Farro Risotto. Farro is an ancient grain that’s been around since B.C. times but has only recently reemerged in American diets. A versatile grain, you can even serve it with stir fry recipes in place of white rice, as its higher in fiber, nutrients, and all-around tastiness. One bite of this Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad and you will be all up in, around, and under its rich combination of flavors. Tasty whole grains, tangy blue cheese, salty bacon, sweet maple syrup, and crunchy walnuts join forces to create one super-fab fall side that will have you wondering why these ingredients aren’t all sold next to each other at the grocery store!
