Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients:

- 2 pounds Brussels sprouts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices bacon (4 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice or balsamic 
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Arrange a rack at the bottom of the oven and heat the oven to 450°F. Meanwhile, remove any discolored outer leaves from 2 pounds Brussels sprouts and trim the ends. Keep small ones whole and halve the remaining through the stem.


2. Place the Brussels on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with 1/4 cup olive oil, and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and some black pepper. Toss to combine, then arrange in a single layer cut-side down.


3. Roast until the sprouts are tender and lightly browned, 15 to 20 minutes. Flip the sprouts and roast until crispy and browned to your liking, 10 to 15 minutes more. Meanwhile, cook the bacon and grate the cheese.


4. Place 4 slices bacon in a single layer in a 12-inch cast iron or other heavy-weight skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until the fat starts to render and the edges curl and release from the pan, about 2 minutes. Flip the bacon, reduce the heat to medium low, and continue to cook, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crisp and golden-brown all over, 6 to 8 minutes more. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Grate 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.


5. Transfer the Brussels to a serving bowl, drizzle with 2 tablespoons lemon juice or balsamic, crumble in the bacon, and toss to combine. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, then sprinkle with the cheese, if desired.