Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both delicious and easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! These Roasted Brussels Sprouts are not just any vegetables; they’re crispy, tender, and packed with flavor. Tossed in a creamy, tangy maple syrup or honey mustard dressing, these sprouts bring a delightful harmony of tastes that will impress your family and friends at any gathering. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing for a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

What makes this dish special is its versatility. The rich, nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts paired with the zesty dressing is perfect for all occasions, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious sprouts ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Even those who claim they “don’t like vegetables” will be fans of these tender, flavorful bites.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the dressing in advance and roast the sprouts just before serving for fresh flavors.
• Nutritious goodness: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these Brussels sprouts are a healthy addition to any meal.
• Impressive presentation: The colorful dressing and roasted finish make this dish a beautiful centerpiece on your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients. You won’t need anything fancy to whip up this delightful side dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the 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 some tasty twists:

• Add crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
• Fresh herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme after roasting for an aromatic touch.
• Citrus zing: Swap out the orange juice for lemon or lime juice for a brighter flavor profile.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key for achieving that lovely roast on your Brussels sprouts. If you’d like, you can line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Using a paring knife, trim off the woody stem of each sprout and remove any discolored outer leaves. It’s important to rinse them well under cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen cloth. Drying helps them roast rather than steam!

Step 3: Halve and Season

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and place them on your prepared baking tray. Drizzle them with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and add two twists of black pepper. Toss everything together until well coated—this step ensures every bite is flavorful.

Step 4: Roast Away!

Roast your seasoned Brussels sprouts in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them slightly charred on the outside while remaining tender inside. This roasting process enhances their natural sweetness while adding depth.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

While your sprouts are roasting, let’s whip up that delicious dressing! In a small jar, combine 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, and two twists of black pepper. Shake well until everything is nicely mixed; alternatively, whisk it together in a bowl.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once your Brussels sprouts are done roasting, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with that zesty dressing we made—it brings everything together beautifully!

Step 7: Nico’s Serving Tip

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

Enjoy these delightful Roasted Brussels Sprouts as your new favorite side dish!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose fresh sprouts: Selecting firm, bright green Brussels sprouts will enhance flavor and texture. Look for tightly packed leaves and avoid any that are yellow or wilted.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing the Brussels sprouts apart on the baking sheet allows them to roast rather than steam. This ensures they get that delicious crispy exterior!
• Mix up your seasoning: While the maple syrup or honey mustard dressing is fantastic, experimenting with different spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika can add new layers of flavor.
• Give them a good shake: Halfway through roasting, give the baking sheet a shake or flip the sprouts with a spatula. This promotes even browning and prevents any from becoming too charred.
• Adjust roasting time based on size: Smaller Brussels sprouts may need less time in the oven, while larger ones might require an extra few minutes. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your roasted Brussels sprouts beautifully can make a simple dish feel special! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Pomegranate seeds: Adding pomegranate seeds not only introduces a pop of color but also provides a juicy burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors.
• Chopped herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives sprinkled over the top can bring a refreshing brightness and enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of roasted Brussels sprouts and adds protein for a balanced meal.
• Mashed sweet potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes offer a delightful sweetness that pairs well with the nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts, making for a comforting combination.
• Grilled chicken: Simple grilled chicken seasoned with herbs makes for a great main course alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, adding protein without overpowering their unique taste.
• Wild rice pilaf: A savory wild rice pilaf mixed with nuts and dried fruits provides texture and heartiness, rounding out your meal while enhancing the earthy notes of the Brussels sprouts.

Enjoy these delicious roasted Brussels sprouts as part of your fall or winter feast—your friends and family will love every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a nutritious side dish throughout the week. You can prepare the sprouts in advance and store them for later, saving you time on busy days.

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 down to room temperature.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for about 1-2 minutes, but they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Brussels Sprouts.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

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

How do I make Roasted Brussels Sprouts more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of your Roasted Brussels Sprouts, consider adding garlic cloves or sprinkling with parmesan cheese before roasting. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving also elevates their taste!

What dishes pair well with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels sprouts complement various dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, and hearty grain salads. Their nutty flavor pairs beautifully with many main courses!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe finds its way into your kitchen! With its rich flavors and delightful texture, it’s not just a side dish but a celebration of seasonal goodness. Enjoy preparing this dish and sharing it with loved ones; I can’t wait for you to try it! Happy cooking!