Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that will make your mealtime feel special, then you need to try these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. They are everything you want in a vegetable dish: crunchy, sweet, and tangy all at once! Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, these roasted Brussels sprouts have a way of stealing the show. Trust me, once you taste that delightful glaze, you’ll want to make this recipe again and again.

Perfect for any occasion, this easy recipe is great for adding a gourmet touch to your everyday meals. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to introduce more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor! Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with these delicious little gems.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish in the oven and on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Even Brussels sprout skeptics will fall for the sweet-and-tangy glaze!
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients and made from simple ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Feel free to roast the sprouts ahead of time and toss them with the glaze just before serving.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: Perfect as a side for any main dish or even enjoyed as a healthy snack throughout the day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store. So let’s gather our goodies for these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts!

• 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1½ tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts during the last few minutes of roasting.
• Sweeten It Up: Try adding maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness.
• Herbal Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting for an aromatic twist.

How to Make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Getting rid of excess moisture helps them crisp up beautifully while roasting.

Step 3: Season and Toss

In a large bowl, toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well-coated; this not only adds flavor but also contributes to that lovely crunch.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the seasoned sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding; giving them space allows air to circulate, ensuring they roast evenly and get crispy.

Step 5: Roast Until Golden

Roast those beauties in the oven for 20–25 minutes. Flip them halfway through so they brown nicely on both sides. You’re looking for a golden hue that promises deliciousness!

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While they roast, prepare your glaze! In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard (if using). Simmer gently until slightly thickened—this step enhances those beautiful flavors!

Step 7: Combine

Once the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy, toss them immediately with the warm glaze right after baking. This ensures they soak up all that deliciousness.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Serve your Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts hot from the oven. Don’t forget to sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like some heat! Enjoy every bite as they bring warmth and joy to your meal!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

When you’re ready to whip up these delicious Brussels sprouts, keep these simple tips in mind for the best results!

• Dry your sprouts well: Ensuring the Brussels sprouts are completely dry before roasting helps them achieve that coveted crispiness. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soggy sprouts.

• Use high heat: Roasting at 425°F (220°C) allows for caramelization, enhancing the flavors and giving you that delightful crunch. The high temperature cooks them quickly while keeping the insides tender.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing the Brussels sprouts out on the baking sheet ensures they roast evenly and become crispy rather than steaming. Give them room to breathe!

• Toss immediately with glaze: Adding the glaze right after roasting ensures that each sprout is coated with that sweet-and-tangy flavor, making every bite irresistible.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or herbs before roasting. A sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika can add an extra layer of flavor to your dish!

How to Serve Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts make a visually appealing and flavorful addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this dish even further!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness, complementing the rich flavors of the glaze.
• Toasted nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the balsamic glaze perfectly. Plus, their creamy texture makes for a delightful pairing!
• Creamy Polenta: Silky polenta provides a comforting base for these roasted veggies. Top it off with a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this dish brings creaminess and a hint of garlic that balances well with the sweet-and-tangy sprouts.

With these serving ideas and pro tips in mind, your Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are sure to shine on any table! Enjoy transforming this humble vegetable into a gourmet delight that’s perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your sprouts fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Roast the Brussels sprouts as directed, then let them cool entirely.
• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Spread the leftover Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, but they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop into your mind regarding this delightful dish!

Can I make Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts without honey?

Yes! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness without using honey.

How do I get my Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts extra crispy?

Make sure to dry the Brussels sprouts thoroughly before tossing them with oil, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet while roasting. This allows proper air circulation.

Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?

Absolutely! Vegetables like cauliflower or carrots can also work well with this sweet and tangy glaze. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

These delicious sprouts pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a roasted vegetable platter for a healthy side dish that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts as much as I do! They bring together such wonderful flavors and textures that elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them at dinner or enjoying them as a snack, they’re sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!