Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, look no further than Roasted Brussels Sprouts! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavor. Imagine crispy, caramelized sprouts drizzled with a bold dressing that perfectly balances tangy and sweet notes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, these Brussels sprouts will surely impress your loved ones.

What makes this dish even more special is how versatile it is. You can whip it up in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when you want to enjoy something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The nutty taste of roasted Brussels sprouts is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters in your family.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients, this dish is not only tasty but also good for you!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the Brussels sprouts ahead of time and roast them right before serving.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with any main course or incorporate them into salads for extra crunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

The beauty of Roasted Brussels Sprouts lies in their flexibility! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, during the last five minutes of roasting for added texture.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes before roasting if you’re looking for a little kick.
• Go Sweet: Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins after cooking for a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory dressing.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, which adds vibrant color and fresh flavors right before serving.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting because it allows the Brussels sprouts to get crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside. If you’d like, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

With a paring knife, trim off the woody stem of each pound of Brussels sprouts 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 those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Season & Roast

Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise and place them on your baking tray. Toss them gently with ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and two twists of black pepper. Arranging them in a single layer helps achieve that beautiful caramelization we all love! Roast for about 20-25 minutes until they are slightly charred and tender.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

While the sprouts are roasting, let’s prepare our dressing! In a small jar, add 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon orange juice, 2 teaspoons maple syrup, 2 teaspoons mustard, ½ teaspoon salt, and two twists of black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake well until everything is combined. If you prefer, whisk these ingredients together in a small bowl instead.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Once your Brussels sprouts are done roasting, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle with that delicious dressing you just made. For an extra special touch, consider Nico’s serving tip: add some boiled chestnuts, drizzle with tahini sauce, sprinkle pomegranate seeds, or top with crushed hazelnuts. Enjoy this delightful side dish at your next meal!

There you have it—the perfect recipe for Roasted Brussels Sprouts! I can’t wait for you to try it out!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts to perfection is easy with a few handy tips that will elevate your dish!

• Choose fresh sprouts: Look for tightly packed, bright green Brussels sprouts. Freshness enhances flavor and ensures a delightful texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Giving the sprouts space allows them to roast evenly and develop that desirable caramelization. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to mix in spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost. This creativity can take your roasted Brussels sprouts from good to unforgettable!
• Flip halfway through cooking: Turning the Brussels sprouts midway ensures even browning and prevents them from becoming too soft on one side.
• Adjust roasting time to your preference: If you love a bit more char, let them roast a few minutes longer. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Once your roasted Brussels sprouts are ready, it’s all about presentation! Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious side dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Toasted nuts: Adding a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts provides crunch and enhances the nutty profile of the sprouts.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast to the roasted flavors.
• Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes bring sweetness and creaminess that pairs beautifully with the slightly bitter notes of Brussels sprouts.
• Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup adds heartiness and is a perfect choice for chilly evenings alongside your roasted veggies.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Roasted Brussels Sprouts will not only be delicious but also visually stunning at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious, healthy side dish ready to go for your weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

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

• Let the roasted Brussels sprouts cool fully before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

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

How do I make my Roasted Brussels Sprouts crispy?

To achieve crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts, ensure they are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. Also, roasting at a higher temperature helps create that perfect crunch!

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh is preferred for flavor and texture, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

What goes well with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels Sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grains like quinoa or rice, or even as a topping on salads. They add a delightful nutty flavor to almost any dish!

Is there a substitute for extra virgin olive oil in the dressing?

Yes! You can use avocado oil or sunflower oil as alternatives if you prefer. Both will still give your dressing a lovely consistency and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Brussels Sprouts as much as I do! Their rich flavor and satisfying crunch make them an incredibly special side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or just looking for something delicious during the week, these will surely impress. Happy cooking!