Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Dried Cherries

Brussels sprouts have a bad rep. But add a handful of dried cherries and just a touch of thick cut bacon and you’ve got yourself one fun, eye-catching side dish. Don’t be scared of the bacon; we’re only using a few slices and make sure to buy the quality, uncured kind (a little goes a long way). To go even cleaner with this dish, skip the bacon and opt for extra virgin olive oil instead. This side dish has a beautiful balance of carbs and fat, so make sure to serve it alongside your favorite lean protein like white fish, chicken breast or pork tenderloin for a balanced, fat-blasting meal.
For more of my recipes, please like my page at: https://www.facebook.com/chefvaleriecogswell

About 1 lb. Brussels sprouts
Fat free cooking spray
3 slices raw Thick Sliced, Un-cured quality bacon, rough chopped into small pieces (Whole Foods has a ton of great options- many of which are naturally lower in fat)
½ white onion, chopped small
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
2 garlic cloves, finely minced into a paste
Kosher or sea salt
Fresh ground black pepper
1/3 cup dried sweet cherries

1. Slice the bottom stems off of the Brussels sprouts. Peel off any discolored outer leaves. Slice Brussels sprouts in half, length wise. Steam covered in microwave with about 2 tablespoons of water for approximately 7 minutes or until tender but crisp.

2. In the meantime, heat large frying pan over medium heat. Spray with cooking spray. Once pan is hot, add bacon and render down the fat. Cook until bacon is crispy. Once bacon is crispy, remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Pour all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat out of pan (leave a little in the pan).

3. Add onions and thyme to pan and sauté for about 4 minutes or until softened. 

4. Remove steamed Brussels sprouts from bowl, drain really well and add to frying pan. Toss Brussels sprouts with onions and allow Brussels sprouts to caramelize (get lightly browned) for a few minutes on each side undisturbed. 

5. Add garlic, toss Brussels sprouts again and sauté for another few minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 

6. Add dried cherries and crisp bacon and toss. Enjoy!