INGREDIENTS 2 slices thick cut bacon, chopped 1 pound brussels sprouts, halved kosher salt to taste pepper to taste 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1/3 cup medjool dates, pits removed and chopped 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 8 ounces Halloumi cheese, cubed

1. Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium high heat. Add the bacon and cook until crisp and the fat has rendered, about 5 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to the skillet with the bacon grease. When the oil shimmers, add the Brussels Sprouts, cut side down and cook until charred around the edges, about 5-8 minutes. It is okay if the Brussels Sprouts become blackened in some parts. Stir and season with salt and pepper. Continue cooking another 8-10 minutes or until the Brussels Sprouts are soft. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, dates, and red wine vinegar. Cook until the vinegar coats the sprouts, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from the heat.
3. Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add the Halloumi cheese and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Stir the cheese into the sprouts. Serve warm. Enjoy!