Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that feels special yet is easy to whip up, look no further than these Roasted Brussels Sprouts! They are the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The combination of the slightly sweet and nutty Brussels sprouts paired with a creamy, tangy dressing makes this recipe a go-to for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering.

What I love most about these Roasted Brussels Sprouts is how they can transform a simple meal into something extraordinary. Plus, they’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy that doesn’t skimp on flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious side dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The balance of sweet and savory makes these Brussels sprouts a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep your sprouts in advance, making it easier to serve them fresh at mealtime.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted goodness and zesty dressing creates an irresistible taste that will brighten any plate.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients, this dish is not only tasty but also good for you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Roasted Brussels Sprouts. You likely already have many of these on hand, which makes this recipe even more convenient!

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! Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

• Add Nuts or Seeds: Toss in some roasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes before roasting for a spicy kick!
• Herb it Up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
• Sweeten the Deal: For an extra touch of sweetness, try adding dried cranberries or raisins after roasting.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’d like, line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using a paring knife, trim the woody stems from your 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, removing any outer leaves that may be brown. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen cloth. This step is crucial as drying helps them achieve that lovely crispiness in the oven.

Step 2: Halve the Brussels Sprouts

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and place them on your baking tray. This allows them to roast evenly and caramelize beautifully.

Step 3: Season and Arrange

Toss the halved sprouts with ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 twists of black pepper. Make sure they are well coated! Then arrange them in a single layer on the tray. Spacing them out ensures they roast rather than steam.

Step 4: Roast Until Perfect

Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You want them slightly charred and brown on the outside while tender but still having that wonderful bite inside. The roasting time may vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on them!

Step 5: Make the Dressing

While your sprouts are roasting, let’s prepare the 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 2 twists black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake well until everything is combined. If you prefer, you can whisk these ingredients together in a bowl.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once your roasted Brussels sprouts are ready, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle generously with your dressing. The vibrant flavors will elevate this dish to new heights!

Step 7: Nico’s Serving Tip

For an extra special touch at dinner, consider adding some boiled chestnuts, drizzling tahini sauce over the top, sprinkling pomegranate seeds, and finishing off with crushed hazelnuts. It’s all about those little touches that make meals memorable!

Enjoy your delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts! They’re bound to become one of your favorite side dishes as they have mine!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Making the perfect roasted Brussels sprouts is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose fresh sprouts: Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts will yield the best flavor and texture. Look for bright green, tightly packed sprouts without any yellowing leaves.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Giving your Brussels sprouts enough space on the baking sheet allows them to roast evenly, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior.
• Experiment with seasoning: While our maple syrup or honey mustard dressing is delicious, feel free to experiment with spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try different cooking times: Every oven is unique! Keep an eye on your sprouts and adjust the cooking time as needed. You want them tender with a lovely caramelized exterior.
• Serve immediately: Roasted Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re warm and crispy. If they sit too long, they may lose their delightful crunch!

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts can be a beautiful addition to any table setting. Their vibrant green color and appealing texture make them not only delicious but also visually appealing!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a burst of freshness that beautifully complements the earthy flavors.
• Toasted nuts: Adding toasted almonds or walnuts provides a crunchy contrast that enhances each bite.
• Grated cheese alternative: For those who enjoy cheese flavors, sprinkling nutritional yeast can add a cheesy note without using dairy.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the rich flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Mashed sweet potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes offer a sweet counterpart that balances the slight bitterness of the Brussels.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring additional color and flavor variety to your meal, making it even more inviting.
• Lentil soup: A hearty lentil soup serves as a comforting side that complements the dish’s nutty notes while adding protein and fiber.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your roasted Brussels sprouts will shine as a standout side dish at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance, making it an excellent addition to your weekly meals. Here’s how to store and preserve these delicious sprouts.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the roasted sprouts are completely cooled.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few minutes, but they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Brussels Sprouts that might help!

Can I make Roasted Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freeze them. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What goes well with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These roasted veggies pair beautifully with various main dishes, from roasted chicken to grain bowls. Their nutty flavor complements savory foods wonderfully!

How do I achieve crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

For extra crispiness, make sure to space the sprouts out on your baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

Can I customize the dressing for Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different vinegars or sweeteners based on your taste preferences.

Are Roasted Brussels Sprouts healthy?

Yes! Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. This recipe keeps things healthy while delivering amazing flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Roasted Brussels Sprouts as I am! Their rich flavors and delightful textures make them a standout side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these sprouts will surely impress everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—I’m confident you’ll enjoy every bite!