Want a tasty dish that’s simple to make? Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts are your answer! With a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful side that impresses everyone. I’ll guide you through each step to ensure your Brussels sprouts are crispy and delicious. Ready to elevate your meals with this easy recipe? Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Nutritious and Healthy: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and nutrients, making this dish not only delicious but also a healthy choice.
- Customizable: Add walnuts for crunch or feta cheese for creaminess; this recipe allows for personal touches to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
Seasonings and Add-ins
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: walnuts and feta cheese
To make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts, you’ll need fresh, firm Brussels sprouts. I prefer to use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor. Honey adds a nice sweetness that balances the tang of the vinegar.
For seasonings, I always use fresh garlic because it brings a punch of taste. Dijon mustard adds depth and a bit of zest. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
If you want to add some crunch, consider walnuts. They toast nicely in the oven. Feta cheese is a lovely addition too; it gives a creamy contrast to the sprouts.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Ingredients
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Trim and cut Brussels sprouts in half.
Start by heating your oven. This step is key for great results. While the oven warms up, take your Brussels sprouts. Make sure to trim off any brown ends. Then, cut each sprout in half. Cutting helps them cook faster and soak up more flavor.
Mixing the Balsamic Dressing
– Combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper.
– Whisk until smooth.
In a large bowl, mix the balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Next, add honey for sweetness. Then, mince two cloves of garlic and toss them in. Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, some salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use a whisk to blend everything. You want the dressing to be smooth and well-mixed.
Coating and Roasting
– Toss Brussels sprouts in the balsamic mixture.
– Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
– Roast and toss halfway through for even caramelization.
Now, it’s time to coat your sprouts. Put the halved Brussels sprouts into the bowl with the dressing. Toss them well so each sprout gets covered in that tasty mixture. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze. Spread the coated Brussels sprouts on the sheet in a single layer. They should not be crowded. Place the baking sheet in the oven. Roast for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, take them out and toss them again. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice caramel color.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Roasting
To get the best Brussels sprouts, space them out on the baking sheet. This prevents steaming and helps them roast evenly. Toss them halfway through cooking. This step ensures every sprout gets nice and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful dish, garnish with crumbled feta and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This adds flavor and makes it look stunning. Use a stylish serving dish to impress your guests. Presentation matters, so take some time to arrange the sprouts nicely.
Enhancing Flavor
You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Fresh herbs make the dish pop. If you want it sweeter, add a bit more honey. This can balance the tang of the balsamic vinegar. Adjust to your taste and enjoy the burst of flavors!
Pro Tips
- Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select bright green, firm Brussels sprouts for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any that are yellowing or have blemishes.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other seasonings or spices to the balsamic mixture, such as red pepper flakes or fresh herbs, to customize the dish to your taste.
- Use a Hot Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure caramelization. A hotter oven helps the Brussels sprouts develop a nice, crispy exterior.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the roasted Brussels sprouts to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste.
Variations
Nut-Free Version
If you want a nut-free dish, just leave out the walnuts. This change keeps the recipe simple. You still get the great flavor from the balsamic mixture and the garlic. The Brussels sprouts will roast beautifully without the nuts. This is a perfect option for anyone with nut allergies.
Cheese Alternatives
You can also switch the cheese. Try using goat cheese or Parmesan for a different taste. If you want to skip cheese altogether, that works too! The roasted Brussels sprouts will still taste great without it. Each option allows you to personalize your dish to fit your taste.
Flavor Twists
Want to spice things up? You can add chili flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a rich flavor. A little bit goes a long way, so start small. These spices create a fun twist on the classic dish. Feel free to experiment and find what you love best!
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To keep your Brussels sprouts fresh, store them in airtight containers. Let them cool first before sealing. This helps keep their flavor and texture. They can last in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating Tips
For the best results, reheat Brussels sprouts in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps restore their crispiness. You can also use a skillet on medium heat. Just stir them often to prevent burning.
Freezing for Future Meals
To freeze Brussels sprouts, start with fresh ones. After washing and trimming, blanch them in boiling water for three minutes. Then, quickly cool them in ice water. Drain and pack them in freezer bags. Try to remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to six months. When ready to use, cook them straight from the freezer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, they may need some extra time to roast. Frozen sprouts often have more moisture, so they might not get as crispy. To fix this, thaw them first and pat them dry with a towel. This helps them roast better.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. You can also leave out the feta cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. Both options will keep the dish tasty and plant-based.
What are the health benefits of Brussels sprouts?
Brussels sprouts are very good for you! They are low in calories but high in vitamins. They have vitamin C, which helps your immune system. They also have fiber, which aids in digestion. Plus, they contain antioxidants that can help fight diseases. Eating Brussels sprouts may even support heart health!
This blog post outlined a simple and tasty way to prepare Brussels sprouts. You learned the key ingredients and seasonings needed, along with easy steps to roast them. We also shared helpful tips to make your dish perfect and options for variations. These sprouts are great as a side dish or a main event. I hope you feel confident in trying this dish. Enjoy the flavors and health benefits of Brussels sprouts. They can be a delightful addition to your meal
