Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that’s both simple and satisfying, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Brussels sprouts are one of my favorite go-to recipes, especially as the seasons change and cozy meals become more appealing. Their rich, nutty flavor combined with a slightly sweet and tangy dressing makes them an absolute hit at family gatherings or even on a busy weeknight dinner.

These roasted gems not only taste amazing but also bring a vibrant touch to your plate. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or just want something special to brighten up your everyday meals, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts will be surprised by how tasty they are when roasted and dressed.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the dressing ahead of time, making it easy to whip up this dish whenever you need a quick side.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted sprouts with the bold maple syrup or honey mustard dressing is simply irresistible.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients and fiber, this dish makes for a guilt-free addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need for these delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Try Different Dressings: Experiment with different dressings like balsamic vinaigrette for a unique twist.
• Mix with Other Veggies: Combine Brussels sprouts with other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for a colorful medley.
• Add Cheese: For a creamy finish, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese 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 roasting and will give your Brussels sprouts that lovely charred flavor we all adore. If you’d like, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup!

Step 2: Prepare the Sprouts

Using a paring knife, trim the woody stems from 1 pound of Brussels sprouts and remove any brown outer leaves. Rinse them gently under cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen cloth. Drying them ensures they roast properly instead of steaming.

Step 3: Halve and Season

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and place them on your baking tray. Drizzle with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle on ½ teaspoon salt plus two twists of black pepper. Toss everything together until each sprout is well-coated—this will enhance their flavor immensely!

Step 4: Roast Them Up

Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should become slightly charred and brown on the outside while remaining tender with a little bite inside. This roasting magic brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 5: Make the Dressing

While the sprouts are roasting, let’s prepare that delicious dressing! In a small jar, combine 2 tablespoons of 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, and two twists of black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake well until everything is nicely mixed—this adds such great flavor!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once your sprouts are perfectly roasted, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle generously with the dressing. The combination of flavors will make everyone at the table excited!

Step 7: Presentation Tip

For an extra special touch during dinner parties, consider adding some boiled chestnuts or pomegranate seeds alongside crushed hazelnuts for crunch. It not only tastes great but looks stunning too!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious Roasted Brussels Sprouts! I hope this becomes one of your family’s favorites as it has for mine!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts can be an art, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate this dish to perfection!

• Choose fresh sprouts: Selecting vibrant green Brussels sprouts without any yellow or wilted leaves ensures the best flavor and texture. Fresh sprouts will be more tender and have a nutty sweetness when roasted.

• Cut evenly: Halving the Brussels sprouts allows for even cooking, ensuring that every piece is perfectly tender while still retaining a bit of crunch. This promotes consistent caramelization, which enhances their natural flavors.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing out the sprouts on your baking sheet helps them roast instead of steam. If they are too close together, they won’t develop that lovely crispy exterior we all crave.

• Experiment with spices: While the recipe includes salt and pepper, feel free to add other spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne for added depth of flavor. This allows you to customize the taste to suit your preferences!

• Serve immediately: Roasted Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they are hot and crispy. If you let them sit too long, they may lose their delightful crunch.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your roasted Brussels sprouts can be as fun as making them! Here are some creative ideas to make your dish shine at the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Herbs can brighten up the flavors and make the dish visually appealing.

• Toasted nuts: Add some toasted almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch! The nuttiness complements the roasted flavor beautifully while providing a delightful textural contrast.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the savory notes of roasted Brussels sprouts. It adds a refreshing element to your meal.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting side that balances nicely with the slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts. The richness of potatoes complements their earthy flavor perfectly.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring out their natural sugars, creating a lovely contrast with the savory notes of Brussels sprouts. The combination is not only delicious but also visually stunning on your plate!

• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce can elevate your meal by adding a sweet-tart aspect that harmonizes wonderfully with roasted vegetables. It’s especially perfect if you’re serving this dish during festive occasions!

Enjoy experimenting with these tips and serving suggestions to create unforgettable meals centered around roasted Brussels sprouts!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week with minimal effort. Here’s how to store your leftovers and keep them fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen sprouts, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or roast them directly from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Roasted Brussels Sprouts!

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

Yes! While fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal for roasting due to their texture, you can use frozen ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before roasting.

How do I make my Roasted Brussels Sprouts crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispiness, ensure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Also, don’t overcrowd them—this helps with caramelization!

What can I serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with various main dishes like grilled chicken, fish, or hearty grain bowls. They also make a fantastic addition to salads!

How long does it take to roast Brussels sprouts?

Typically, it takes about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for Brussels sprouts to roast perfectly. Just keep an eye on them towards the end for your desired level of browning!

Can I add other vegetables when roasting?

Absolutely! Mixing in other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just remember that different vegetables may require slight adjustments in cooking time.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Brussels Sprouts as much as I do! Their nutty flavor combined with the tangy maple syrup or honey mustard dressing makes them truly special and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or just looking for a healthy side dish option, these sprouts won’t disappoint. Happy cooking!