Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both delightful and easy to prepare, these Roasted Brussels Sprouts are just the ticket! They bring a wonderful nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings, this recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home. The combination of roasted sprouts and the zesty dressing makes every bite a celebration of flavors, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

These Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for busy weeknights or as an impressive addition to your holiday table. Whether served alongside a hearty main dish or enjoyed on their own, they’re a great way to add some nutrition and vibrant color to your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious Brussels sprouts ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The nutty taste combined with the tangy dressing is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Roast them in advance and simply reheat before serving for hassle-free entertaining.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutrients and fiber, this side dish fits perfectly into any healthy eating plan.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair with other dishes or enjoy them as a light snack; they fit any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these Roasted Brussels Sprouts shine! You probably have most of them in your pantry 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in some walnuts or almonds before roasting for an extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the sprouts before roasting for a little kick.
• Go Sweet: Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins after roasting for a sweet contrast.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key for achieving beautifully roasted Brussels sprouts. You want them hot enough to caramelize while keeping their texture tender-crisp. If you like, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Using a paring knife, trim off the woody stems from 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Don’t forget to remove any brown outer leaves! After rinsing them under cold water, pat dry with a kitchen cloth. Halving them allows for even cooking and enhances their flavor during roasting.

Step 3: Season and Arrange

Place the halved Brussels sprouts in your baking tray and toss them with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and two twists of black pepper. Make sure they’re arranged in a single layer. This ensures they roast nicely without steaming each other.

Step 4: Roast Them Up

Roast those beauties in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want slightly charred edges while maintaining that tender bite inside. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

While your sprouts are roasting, let’s whip up that bold dressing! In a small jar, combine 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 mixed together—this dressing packs a punch!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once roasted to perfection, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving platter and drizzle that delicious dressing over them. The combination is simply divine!

Step 7: Optional Finishing Touches

For an extra special touch at dinner time, consider adding some boiled chestnuts or pomegranate seeds on top. A drizzle of tahini sauce and crushed hazelnuts can elevate this dish even further!

Enjoy these Roasted Brussels Sprouts as part of any meal—they’re sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly caramelized, flavorful bites every time!

• Choose fresh sprouts: Look for bright green Brussels sprouts that are firm to the touch. Freshness contributes to better flavor and texture, ensuring your dish is both delicious and visually appealing.

• Evenly cut halves: Make sure to cut the Brussels sprouts in half evenly. This allows them to roast uniformly, leading to consistent cooking and a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender centers.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which may result in soggy sprouts rather than those delightful crispy bits.

• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to get creative! Adding spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile and bring exciting variations to your roasted Brussels sprouts.

• Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your roasted Brussels sprouts right after they come out of the oven. They’re at their crispiest and most flavorful when fresh!

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your roasted Brussels sprouts can transform an ordinary side into an extraordinary centerpiece at your dining table. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the roasted sprouts.
• Toasted nuts: A sprinkle of toasted almonds or walnuts provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender texture of the vegetables.
• Citrus zest: Grating some lemon or orange zest over the top just before serving brings an added layer of brightness that enhances all the other flavors.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with diced vegetables and a lemon vinaigrette complements the nutty flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts while providing a healthy grain option.
• Mashed sweet potatoes: The creamy sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a warming comfort food combination.
• Grilled chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken marinated in herbs for a protein-rich plate that balances well with the earthy flavors of the sprouts.
• Wild rice pilaf: The chewy texture and nutty taste of wild rice pilaf harmonize beautifully with roasted veggies, making it an excellent addition to your meal.

Enjoy your deliciously roasted Brussels sprouts as part of any gathering or meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious and nutritious side dish ready to go. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the Brussels sprouts are completely cooled.
• Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen sprouts to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• If desired, add a drizzle of olive oil before reheating for extra flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

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

When your Roasted Brussels Sprouts are done, they should be slightly charred on the outside while remaining tender-crisp on the inside. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before roasting to achieve a nice crispiness.

What goes well with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels Sprouts pair wonderfully with rich proteins like chicken or turkey. They also complement grains such as quinoa or farro beautifully!

Can I modify the dressing for Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the mustard or sweetener based on your taste preferences. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Brussels Sprouts! Their nutty flavor combined with that creamy dressing makes them truly special. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these sprouts are sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and don’t hesitate to share your own twists! Happy cooking!