Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both delicious and easy to make, then you have to try these Roasted Brussels Sprouts! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, especially during the cozy fall and winter months. The combination of their rich, nutty flavor, paired with a creamy, tangy dressing, makes them a standout on any dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these Brussels sprouts will impress everyone around.

The best part? They are so simple to prepare. Just toss your ingredients together and let the oven do the work! You’ll love how they come out slightly charred on the outside yet tender on the inside. Trust me; this is one recipe you’ll want to keep close at hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these beauties roasting in the oven.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these Brussels sprouts are a wholesome addition to any meal.
• Family-approved: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this savory side dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Versatile dressing options: The bold maple syrup or honey mustard dressing is easily customizable to suit everyone’s taste.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. They work together beautifully to create a dish that’s full of flavor and nutrition.

For the Roasted 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! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts or seeds: Toss in some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Go cheesy: Sprinkle some nutritional yeast or vegan cheese on top before serving for added flavor.
• Mix in other veggies: Try adding carrots or sweet potatoes to roast alongside your Brussels sprouts for a colorful medley.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This is an important step because it ensures that your Brussels sprouts will roast evenly and get that lovely charred texture we all adore.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim off the woody stem ends of each sprout and remove any brown outer leaves. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a kitchen cloth. Drying them well helps achieve that perfect crispiness when roasting.

Step 3: Season the Sprouts

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and place them in your baking tray. Drizzle with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and add two twists of black pepper. Toss everything together until all the sprouts are nicely coated—this is where all those wonderful flavors start coming together!

Step 4: Roast Away!

Roast your seasoned Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want them to be slightly charred and brown on the outside while remaining tender yet firm inside. Keep an eye on them towards the end; ovens can vary!

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

While your Brussels sprouts are roasting, it’s time to whip up that fabulous dressing! In a small jar (or bowl), combine 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, and two twists of black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake well until everything is combined; if using a bowl, whisk until blended.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once your Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle generously with your homemade dressing. The contrast between warm sprouts and cool dressing is simply irresistible!

Step 7: Add Special Touches

For an even more special dinner presentation, consider adding some boiled chestnuts, a drizzle of tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, or crushed hazelnuts as suggested by Nico. These extras not only elevate the dish but also add delightful textures.

And there you have it—your fabulous Roasted Brussels Sprouts ready to be devoured! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts to perfection is all about technique and a little love. Here are some pro tips to ensure you achieve that irresistible caramelization and flavor.

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, tightly packed sprouts with a vibrant green color. Fresh sprouts will have a sweeter taste and better texture when roasted.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give your Brussels sprouts enough space on the baking sheet. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast, resulting in a soggy texture rather than that delightful crispiness.

• Experiment with Seasonings: While the dressing provided is delicious, feel free to get creative! Adding garlic powder, chili flakes, or even smoked paprika can add depth and an exciting twist to your dish.

• Shake Things Up Midway: Halfway through roasting, give your baking sheet a little shake or use tongs to turn the sprouts. This helps them brown evenly and enhances their crispy edges.

• Adjust Cooking Time for Size: If you have larger Brussels sprouts, they may need a few extra minutes in the oven. Always check for that golden color and tender-crisp texture!

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your beautifully roasted Brussels sprouts can elevate any meal. Here are some delightful ideas on how to serve this dish that will impress your guests or family!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme over the roasted sprouts just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Toasted Nuts: Add some toasted almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch that complements the creamy dressing beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the Brussels sprouts while adding healthy grains.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts, making it a comforting combination.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a hearty side that balances out the slight bitterness of the roasted sprouts.
• Lentil Stew: A warm lentil stew makes for a hearty vegetarian option that adds protein to your meal while harmonizing with the flavors of your roasted veggies.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re all set to make Roasted Brussels Sprouts a star on your dinner table! Enjoy this delicious dish as part of your next gathering or cozy family dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time. Whether you’re getting ready for a busy week or planning a holiday feast, these sprouts will hold up beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Ensure that the Brussels sprouts are fully cooled before freezing.
• Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually for about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
• They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat leftover Brussels sprouts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave; just heat in short intervals until warm, but this may soften their texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

Can I make Roasted Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast them in advance and store them as mentioned above. Just remember to reheat them before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What goes well with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These flavorful sprouts pair wonderfully with various main dishes such as roasted chicken, quinoa salads, or even as part of a festive holiday spread!

How do I know when my Roasted Brussels Sprouts are done?

Your roasted Brussels sprouts should be slightly charred on the outside and tender but still have a bit of bite inside. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Can I customize the dressing for Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding herbs or spices that you love. A sprinkle of garlic powder or fresh herbs can elevate your dressing even more!

Are Roasted Brussels Sprouts healthy?

Yes! They are low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins. Plus, they make a nutritious addition to any meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe brings warmth and joy to your table, especially during the colder months. Their nutty flavor combined with our delicious dressing makes them truly special. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!