Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious side dish that can elevate any meal. This recipe combines the natural nuttiness of Brussels sprouts with a crispy texture, creating a delightful contrast that tantalizes your taste buds. The sweet caramelization achieved during roasting is simply irresistible, making these little green gems a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will help you whip up an extraordinary dish that’s worth making time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s an easy choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. It’s family-friendly, making it a great way to introduce your loved ones to a vegetable that’s often misunderstood. Plus, you can prepare this dish in 30 minutes or less, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal instead of cooking it.
Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts
For perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts: Fresh and vibrant, these little vegetables are the stars of the dish. Look for firm sprouts that are tightly closed.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Rich and flavorful, this oil brings out the best in the Brussels sprouts.
- 1 tsp sea salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors, a good sprinkle of sea salt will make all the difference.
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper: A touch of heat that complements the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
- 1 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar (optional): For an extra layer of flavor, adding a drizzle of balsamic vinegar just before serving can elevate this dish to new heights.
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C): The high temperature ensures those Brussels sprouts get crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.
Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half: This gives each sprout a greater surface area to caramelize, enhancing their natural sweetness.
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated: Coat them evenly so that every sprout gets a taste of that wonderful olive oil and seasoning.
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper: Spacing them out allows for proper roasting and prevents them from steaming.
Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the baking sheet halfway through: This ensures even cooking and gives all sides of the sprouts a chance to get wonderfully crispy.
Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving, if desired: This is where you can really add a touch of gourmet flair. The vinegar will balance the earthy flavors beautifully.
Tips & Tricks
To ensure your roasted Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly, consider these chef’s secrets:
- Choose small to medium-sized sprouts: They will cook more evenly and have a sweeter taste than larger ones.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give each sprout room to breathe; this helps with crispiness.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add crushed garlic, red pepper flakes, or even parmesan cheese toward the end for a twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Roasted Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile. They can be served alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as part of a vegetarian feast. For a festive touch, try serving them with a sprinkle of toasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts. They also pair wonderfully with grain dishes like quinoa or farro.
Nutritional Information
Roasted Brussels sprouts are not just tasty; they are also packed with nutrients. A one-cup serving typically contains:
- Calories: Approximately 56
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
These splendid little sprouts are a rich source of vitamins K and C, as well as folate and antioxidants.
Storing Tips & Variations for Roasted Brussels Sprouts
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in a hot oven for about 10 minutes to help them regain their crispy texture. For a healthier swap, try using avocado oil instead of olive oil, or experiment with adding spices like curry powder for a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion for Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Now that you have this delightful recipe for roasted Brussels sprouts, why not give it a try? They not only complement a myriad of meals but also bring a wonderful balance of taste and nutrition to your table. So gather your ingredients and let those sprouts roast to perfection!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but fresh Brussels sprouts work best for achieving that crispy texture. If using frozen, it’s important to thaw and pat them dry before roasting.
2. How can I make this dish vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure that your balsamic vinegar is free from any non-vegan additives.
3. What can I substitute for olive oil?
Avocado oil or melted coconut oil are excellent substitutes that will still deliver great flavor.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even red onions can be added for more variety and flavor.
5. How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?
They should be deep golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a tender interior. A fork or knife should easily pierce through the sprout when it’s ready.
Embark on a culinary adventure with this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe and watch as your family and friends rave about this healthy yet delicious dish!
Print
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delicious and nutritious side dish that combines the natural nuttiness of Brussels sprouts with a crispy texture, creating a delightful contrast.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the baking sheet halfway through.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving, if desired.
Notes
Choose small to medium-sized sprouts for better cooking consistency. Experiment with seasonings like crushed garlic or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 56
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
