Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Brussels sprouts are a true gem in the vegetable world, especially when drizzled with our bold, creamy, tangy maple syrup or honey mustard dressing. Their rich, nutty flavor combined with the perfect tender-crisp texture makes them a favorite on busy weeknights and at festive gatherings alike.

These little green beauties are packed with nutrients and add a wonderful touch to any meal. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or just a cozy family night in, Roasted Brussels sprouts will find their way to your table time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these Brussels sprouts roasting while you focus on other dishes.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of nutty roasted sprouts and sweet-tangy dressing makes this dish appealing for all ages.
• Versatile Dressing Options: Feel free to switch up the flavors in the dressing according to your taste – it’s easy to customize!
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these sprouts make for a nutritious addition to any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: You can roast a big batch ahead of time; they taste great even as leftovers!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Roasted Brussels Sprouts. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to create this delightful dish!

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts (halved)
• ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt (+ 2 twists of black pepper)

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon orange juice (or lemon juice)
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup (or honey)
• 2 teaspoons mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 twists black pepper

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to change things up:

• Add Nuts or Seeds: Toss in some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes before roasting for a kick of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.
• Cheesy Twist: If you enjoy cheese, sprinkle some nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese on top before serving.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for getting those Brussels sprouts nice and crispy on the outside while keeping them tender inside. If you’d like, line a baking sheet with parchment paper; it helps with easy cleanup!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

With a paring knife, trim the woody stem of each sprout and remove any outer leaves that look brown. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a kitchen cloth. This step ensures your sprouts are clean and ready to soak up all that delicious seasoning.

Step 3: Halve and Season

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and add them to your baking tray. Toss them with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, and two twists of black pepper. This simple seasoning will bring out their natural flavors while roasting.

Step 4: Roast Away!

Spread the seasoned sprouts in a single layer on your baking sheet. Roast them for about 20-25 minutes until they’re slightly charred and golden brown on the outside but still have that delightful bite inside. Keep an eye on them towards the end; we want crispy but not burnt!

Step 5: Make the Dressing

While those beautiful sprouts are roasting away, let’s whip up our dressing! In a small jar (or bowl), combine 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of orange juice (or lemon juice), 2 teaspoons of maple syrup (or honey), 2 teaspoons of mustard, ½ teaspoon salt, and two twists black pepper. Close tightly and shake well – or whisk together if using a bowl – until everything is nicely blended.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once your roasted Brussels sprouts are done cooking, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle generously with the dressing. This adds that creamy tanginess which really elevates their flavor.

Step 7: Optional Serving Tip

For an extra special touch at dinner time, consider adding boiled chestnuts, a drizzle of tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, or crushed hazelnuts on top. It brings both color and texture that everyone will love!

And there you have it! A wonderful recipe for Roasted Brussels Sprouts that’s sure to become a staple in your home! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts can turn this humble vegetable into a culinary star with just a few simple techniques!

• Choose fresh sprouts – Look for vibrant green Brussels sprouts that are firm and compact. Freshness ensures the best flavor and texture, making your dish delightful.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Give each sprout space to roast evenly. If the sprouts are too close together, they will steam instead of roast, which can lead to sogginess instead of the desired crispiness.

• Experiment with seasonings – Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs like garlic powder or thyme for an extra flavor boost. This personalization can make your roasted Brussels sprouts even more exciting.

• Flip halfway through roasting – Turning the sprouts once during cooking helps them brown evenly on all sides, resulting in that crave-worthy caramelization.

• Serve immediately – Roasted Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed right after cooking when they’re at their most crispy and flavorful. This ensures you experience the perfect texture!

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your Roasted Brussels Sprouts beautifully can elevate any meal! Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Toasted nuts: Adding chopped almonds or walnuts provides a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the sprouts nicely.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with roasted veggies.
• Grilled Chicken Thighs: Juicy grilled chicken thighs seasoned with herbs bring heartiness to the table, making it a complete meal.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds a pop of sweetness and acidity that complements the earthy notes of roasted Brussels sprouts perfectly.

Enjoy these tips and pairing suggestions to make your Roasted Brussels Sprouts shine at your next meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, and it stores wonderfully in the fridge, making it a convenient side dish for busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the sprouts cool completely and spread them out on a baking sheet.
• Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave; just add a splash of water and cover to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Brussels Sprouts!

Can I add other vegetables when roasting Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other hearty vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.

What makes Roasted Brussels Sprouts taste so good?

The caramelization that occurs when Brussels sprouts roast at high heat brings out their natural sweetness while creating a delicious nutty flavor contrast to their slight bitterness.

How long do Roasted Brussels Sprouts last in the fridge?

Leftover Roasted Brussels Sprouts can last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I prepare Roasted Brussels Sprouts without oil?

Yes, you can skip the oil or use an oil alternative like vegetable broth if you’re looking for a lower-fat option. Just be mindful that this could affect the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Roasted Brussels Sprouts! Their rich flavors and delightful texture make them such a special side dish. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday gathering or as part of your weeknight meals, they’re sure to impress. Enjoy making this recipe and don’t hesitate to try variations that suit your taste! Happy cooking!