Oven-baked Smashed Brussels Sprouts

The oven-baked Brussels sprouts are a delicious and healthy side dish. I’ll give you an Italian version of this dish, perhaps enriched with a touch of bacon to add a bit of Italian rustic flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can simply omit this ingredient.

Ingredients

• 500 g of Brussels sprouts
• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 100 g of diced bacon (optional)
• grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Clean the Brussels sprouts by removing the damaged outer leaves and cutting off the base. Boil them in salted water for about 10 minutes, until they are partially tender yet still crisp.
3. Drain the Brussels sprouts and let them cool. Then, using the bottom of a glass or a meat tenderizer, slightly crush them.
4. In a large bowl, mix the crushed Brussels sprouts with the extra virgin olive oil, chopped garlic, salt, and pepper. If you have chosen to use balsamic vinegar, add it at this stage.
5. If using bacon, fry it in a pan until it is crispy.
6. Arrange the Brussels sprouts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and distribute the crispy bacon on top of them.
7. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are golden and crispy at the edges.
8. If you wish, before serving, sprinkle the Brussels sprouts with grated Parmesan cheese and bake for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted and slightly browned.

Notes:

• Good quality balsamic vinegars add a wonderful sweetness and depth of flavor to dishes and pair perfectly with Brussels sprouts.
• Bacon can be omitted for a vegetarian version or substituted with speck for a slightly smoked taste.
• Parmesan is an optional addition, but it brings a nice salty note and a pleasant crispy touch if browned well.

Enjoy these delicious Italian-style oven-baked Brussels sprouts!