This Brussels Sprouts and Garlic Rice is a cozy, flavour-packed side that perfectly balances the crispness of Brussels sprouts with the comforting warmth of rice. The sautéed garlic and crispy pancetta bring a rich depth of flavour, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is irresistibly tasty with a mix of textures. It’s quick to make and easy to love, making it the perfect side for a weeknight dinner or a special meal.
Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced pancetta to the skillet and cook until crispy and browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the thinly sliced Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Sauté the Brussels sprouts for 5-7 minutes or until they are tender and lightly browned.
Add the cooked rice and crispy pancetta to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and garlic. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper according to your taste.
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Garlic, Pancetta, and Rice to a serving dish.
Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving for added flavor.
Notes
Notes to Make It Vegetarian:
Substitute the pancetta: To make the dish vegetarian, simply omit the pancetta or swap it with a plant-based alternative, such as smoked tempeh or marinated tofu for a similar depth of flavour.
Seasoning adjustments: If you’re looking for a smoky flavour similar to pancetta, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to enhance the dish.
Storing Leftovers:
Refrigerating: Store any leftover Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Garlic and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally for even heating.