Brussels Spr "wow" ts

Ingredients (serves 4)

4 Slices of Bacon, chopped 1 inch pieces
2 tablespoons capers, drained
2 pints Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup currants
1/4 cup raisins or dates

1/2 cup roasted red pepper or sun dried tomato

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a pan over medium heat cook the bacon

3. In the same pan, cook garlic, red peppers and capers (2-3 min) and remove to bowl 

4. Add the Brussels sprouts   to pan and cook medium heat till browning. 

5. Dress with balsamic and olive oil, a little salt and pepper. 

6. Place into the oven and roast, tossing a couple of times, until nicely caramelized (15 to 20 min).

7. Put the pine nuts in a small, dry,  pan and toast until lightly browned (3 -4 min)

8. Once sprouts are ready, remove from the oven, put into a big serving bowl. 

9. Add the bacon, red pepper, capers reserve; plus, pine nuts, currants and raisins. 

10. Toss and serve

Prep:   10 min

Cook:  25 min

Serve:  Hot

Substitutions & Suggestions

Several items on this recipe can be subbed such as pancetta for bacon, sun dried tomato instead of roasted red pepper; or, backing away from raisins, dates or currants if you find the sweet element challenging. Pomegranate and toasted hazelnuts are an excellent alternative as well.