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McCain Smiles with Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Bacon & Ricotta

McCain Smiles with Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Bacon & Ricotta

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Preparation Time
45 mins
No.of Servings
6
Level of Difficulty:
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A playful, savoury holiday dish featuring golden McCain Smiles, roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon served over a creamy, lemon-herb ricotta. Finished with balsamic glaze and fresh thyme, it's a colourful addition to your Friesgiving table.

Ingredients

For the McCain Smiles & Roasted Brussels Sprouts

  • 1 bag McCain Smiles
  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 4–5 slices bacon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp oil

For the Ricotta

  • 8 oz (227 g) smooth ricotta cheese, about 1 cup
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • ½ tsp honey
  • 1–2 sprigs fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped

For Garnish

  • Fresh lemon juice, to taste
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
  • Fresh thyme sprigs

Directions

  1. Roast the Brussels sprouts: Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Arrange the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts in a lightly greased baking dish or on a baking sheet. Drizzle with the oil, season with salt and black pepper, and toss to coat. Arrange cut-side down and roast for approximately 20-30 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
  2. Cook the bacon: While the Brussels sprouts roast, arrange the bacon in a single layer on a separate baking sheet. Place in the oven and cook until browned and crispy, checking regularly to avoid overcooking. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool enough to handle, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Prepare the ricotta: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey and rosemary. Blend until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.
  4. Prepare the McCain Smiles: Preheat the oven according to the McCain Smiles package instructions. Arrange the frozen Smiles in a single layer on a baking sheet and cook according to package directions until golden and crispy.
  5. Assemble the platter: Spread the ricotta evenly over the base of a large serving platter. Arrange the hot roasted Brussels sprouts and McCain Smiles over the ricotta, then scatter the chopped crispy bacon on top.
  6. Finish and serve: Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh thyme. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Crispy Smiles: Prepare the McCain Smiles shortly before serving and arrange them over the ricotta at the last minute to help preserve their crispy exterior.
  • Alternative Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer according to the McCain Smiles package instructions. Arrange the frozen Smiles in a single layer in the air fryer basket, without overcrowding. Cook according to package directions until golden and crispy, working in batches as necessary. Continue with the assembly as directed.