Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, you’re in the right place! Roasted Brussels sprouts have become one of my favorite go-to recipes, especially during the fall and winter months. They are so versatile and pair beautifully with many main dishes, making them perfect for everything from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings.

What I love most about this recipe is the way the roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful contrast with our creamy, tangy dressing. Trust me, once you try these Roasted Brussels Sprouts, they will quickly become a staple at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this side dish in no time.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with vitamins and minerals, these sprouts are as healthy as they are tasty!
• Family-Friendly: Even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts will be converted after trying this recipe.
• Make-Ahead Option: Roast them ahead of time and simply drizzle on the dressing before serving.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make this dish uniquely yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this dish is a breeze with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already!

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 quite flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and textures. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts or seeds: Sprinkle in some toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for an added crunch.
• Incorporate cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a lovely creaminess.
• Get spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes can bring some heat to balance out the sweetness.
• Mix in other veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or sweet potatoes for a colorful medley.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you like, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup. With a paring knife, trim off the woody stems of your halved Brussels sprouts. Don’t forget to remove any brown outer leaves! Rinse them well and pat dry—this helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 2: Season and Roast

Place your cut sprouts on the baking tray and drizzle with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle on ½ teaspoon of salt and give it all a few twists of black pepper. Toss them around until evenly coated, then arrange them in a single layer. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until they’re slightly charred on the outside but still tender inside—this is where that delicious flavor comes from!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

While those lovely sprouts are roasting away, let’s prepare 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, 2 teaspoons of maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of mustard, ½ teaspoon of salt, and another couple of twists of black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake it up until everything is well mixed. If you’re whisking in a bowl, make sure it’s nicely blended!

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Once your roasted Brussels sprouts are done cooking, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle that delicious dressing all over them generously.

Step 5: Nico’s Serving Tip

For an extra special touch during dinner parties or holidays, consider adding boiled chestnuts along with pomegranate seeds or crushed hazelnuts. A little drizzle of tahini sauce can elevate this dish even further!

Enjoy your delightful Roasted Brussels Sprouts! They’re bound to impress friends and family alike!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate them to perfection!

• Choose fresh sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts have a vibrant green color and firm texture. Look for those that are tightly closed, as they will offer the best flavor and texture when roasted.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give your Brussels sprouts enough space on the baking sheet to allow them to roast evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which may result in a mushy texture.

• Use high heat: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) helps caramelize the natural sugars in the sprouts, enhancing their flavor and bringing out that beautiful golden-brown color.

• Experiment with seasonings: While our recipe features a delicious maple syrup or honey mustard dressing, feel free to experiment with other seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added depth.

• Try different textures: For added crunch, consider tossing in some nuts or seeds halfway through roasting. This not only adds flavor but also gives your dish an appealing contrast in texture.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Serving roasted Brussels sprouts is all about making them visually appealing while complementing their rich flavors. Here are some fun ideas to present this delicious side dish!

Garnishes

• Shaved Parmesan or Nutritional Yeast: A sprinkle of shaved Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option) adds a savory touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or chives can bring brightness and freshness to your dish, making it even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts, offering a refreshing contrast.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort and richness that complements the nutty flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts perfectly.

• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: Whether you choose grilled chicken or marinated tofu, both options add protein to your meal while balancing the earthy tones of the Brussels sprouts.

• Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of roasted root vegetables such as carrots and sweet potatoes can create a colorful and hearty plate alongside your Brussels sprouts.

With these serving suggestions and tips at hand, you’re well on your way to impressing your family and friends with your culinary skills! Enjoy every bite of this delightful side dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week. You can easily store leftovers or prepare them in advance for future meals.

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 completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the frozen or refrigerated Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, stirring halfway for even reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Brussels Sprouts that might come to mind as you prepare this dish.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best results, you can use frozen ones. Just be sure to thaw them and pat dry before roasting for optimal texture.

How do I ensure my Roasted Brussels Sprouts are crispy?

To achieve crispiness, make sure they are well spaced on the baking sheet and not overcrowded. This allows hot air to circulate around each sprout while roasting.

What can I serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with a variety of dishes, such as grilled chicken, quinoa salads, or as part of a hearty winter vegetable platter.

How long should I roast Brussels sprouts?

Roast your Brussels sprouts at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until they are slightly charred outside and tender inside.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe becomes a favorite at your table as it has mine! The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful side dish for any occasion. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings or dressings. Happy cooking!