If you love a salad that’s bursting with textures and flavors, the Crispy Brussels Caesar with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds is about to become your new favorite. This vibrant dish combines crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, crunchy toasted pumpkin seeds, and savory turkey bacon all tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing over fresh Romaine lettuce. It’s the perfect salad to make when you want something hearty yet fresh, with just the right amount of indulgence and crunch. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main, this salad brings a delightful twist to classic Caesar flavors with a seasonal touch that’s irresistible.

Why It’s My Go-To

I always reach for this Crispy Brussels Caesar with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds when I want a salad that feels special but is incredibly simple to prepare. The Brussels sprouts get perfectly crispy thanks to roasting with olive oil and seasoning, and when combined with the smoky turkey bacon and nutty pumpkin seeds, every bite is a flavor-packed experience. What I love most? It’s a great way to enjoy Brussels in a fresh way that’s not overly heavy but still filling enough to double as a meal. Plus, the Caesar dressing ties everything together with that classic creamy, tangy goodness that makes salads sing.

What’s in the Bowl

1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved – The star of the show, roasted until golden and crispy.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For roasting and adding a lovely depth of flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the sprouts and balancing flavors.
1/2 cup turkey bacon, chopped – Adds a smoky, savory crunch without overpowering the salad.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings that classic Caesar salad flavor and a touch of richness.
1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds – Provides a nutty crunch and a beautiful contrast to the tender leaves.
1/2 cup Caesar dressing (ensure it’s alcohol-free) – Creamy, tangy, and the perfect binder for all the ingredients.
2 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped – The crisp, fresh base that lightens the whole salad.
Lemon wedges for serving – A bright finishing touch to balance the richness.

Setup & Equipment

Baking sheet: For roasting the Brussels sprouts until crisp and caramelized.
Mixing bowl: To toss the salad ingredients together evenly.
Sharp knife & cutting board: For prepping the Brussels sprouts, lettuce, and bacon.
Small skillet: To toast the pumpkin seeds and cook the turkey bacon.
Tongs or salad servers: To mix and serve the salad without mashing the ingredients.

Directions: Crispy Brussels Caesar with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

While the Brussels sprouts roast, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels to remove excess fat.

Step 3: Toast the Pumpkin Seeds

In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add the pumpkin seeds. Toast them gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re fragrant and just beginning to brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 4: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped Romaine lettuce and roasted Brussels sprouts. Add the cooked turkey bacon and toasted pumpkin seeds.

Step 5: Toss with Caesar Dressing

Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad. Using salad servers or tongs, toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Serve

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss lightly once again. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an optional bright squeeze to finish.

For a slightly different take, you can also try pairing this recipe with a Balsamic Brussels Sprouts With Turkey Bacon for a complementary side dish that highlights the same seasonal ingredients in a new way.

Tailor It to Your Diet

Vegetarian option: Replace turkey bacon with smoked tempeh or crispy roasted chickpeas for a similar smoky crunch.
Nut-free variation: Omit pumpkin seeds or swap them with roasted sunflower seeds to maintain that satisfying crunch.
Dairy-free alternative: Use a dairy-free Caesar dressing and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Make it vegan: Choose a plant-based Caesar dressing, omit bacon, and substitute with your favorite vegan bacon alternative.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

One of the keys to this salad’s success is roasting the Brussels sprouts just right. You want them caramelized and crispy but not burnt. I recommend using fresh, firm Brussels sprouts for the best crunch and flavor. The turkey bacon is an excellent choice here because it crisps nicely without overpowering the other ingredients.

Toasting the pumpkin seeds is a small step that makes a big difference. It brings out their nuttiness and adds a perfect textural contrast to the tender leaves and crispy sprouts. If you don’t have pumpkin seeds on hand, feel free to experiment with other toasted seeds or nuts.

This salad also works beautifully when paired with other Caesar-inspired dishes. For instance, check out a Grilled Romaine Salad With Caesar Dressing for a smoky, charred twist that complements the fresh and crispy elements here.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, especially since the Brussels sprouts and bacon lose some of their crispness over time. However, if you need to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate from the salad components to prevent sogginess.

Store the roasted Brussels sprouts, turkey bacon, and toasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Keep the chopped Romaine lettuce fresh by storing it separately in a paper towel-lined container to absorb moisture.
When ready to eat, toss everything together with the dressing and Parmesan cheese for optimal texture and flavor.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Absolutely! Regular bacon will add a richer, smokier flavor, but keep in mind it has a higher fat content. Cook it until crispy and drain well to avoid greasiness in the salad.

Is there a way to make the Caesar dressing from scratch?

Yes! A simple homemade Caesar dressing can be made with mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste (optional), and Parmesan cheese. Just whisk these ingredients together until smooth.

Can I prep this salad ahead of time?

You can roast the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon a day ahead, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

What if I don’t have pumpkin seeds?

Sunflower seeds, chopped toasted almonds, or even pepitas make excellent substitutes and offer a similar crunch and nuttiness.

Explore More

Balsamic Brussels Sprouts With Turkey Bacon – A tangy and sweet side to complement your meal.
Grilled Romaine Salad With Caesar Dressing – For when you want to add smoky char to your greens.

In Closing

The Crispy Brussels Caesar with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds is a salad that satisfies on all levels — crisp, creamy, savory, and a little nutty. It’s an easy way to elevate Brussels sprouts and turn a simple Caesar salad into something exciting and memorable. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight meal or bringing it to a gathering, it’s sure to impress and delight your taste buds every time. So grab your ingredients, roast those sprouts, and get ready to enjoy a fresh, flavorful salad that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

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