Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a delightful addition to any meal, especially during the cozy fall and winter months. Their nutty flavor combined with a hint of sweetness makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple on your table!

I love how easy this recipe is to whip up, and the bold dressing takes it to a whole new level. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds, and you might just find yourself enjoying them on their own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These Roasted Brussels Sprouts come together in just 35 minutes, making them ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts will be won over by their delicious flavor!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast the sprouts earlier in the day and reheat them for quick serving at dinner.
• Flavorful Dressing: The creamy maple syrup or honey mustard dressing adds a tangy twist that complements the sprouts perfectly.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these sprouts are not only tasty but also good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create a comforting side dish that everyone will love. Gather these items before you get started!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with different flavors and textures to suit your taste.

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some roasted nuts or seeds for an added crunch.
• Herb It Up: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
• Citrus Twist: Use lemon juice instead of orange juice for a brighter flavor profile.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures your Brussels sprouts roast evenly and develop that beautiful caramelization we all adore.

Step 2: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

With a paring knife, trim off the woody stems of your halved Brussels sprouts and remove any brown outer leaves. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a kitchen cloth. Properly prepping your sprouts helps them roast beautifully—no sogginess here!

Step 3: Season and Arrange

Place the halved Brussels sprouts onto your baking tray. Drizzle with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of salt, and add two twists of black pepper. Toss everything together until well-coated. Arranging them in a single layer allows each sprout to get that lovely golden-brown exterior.

Step 4: Roast Away!

Pop those beauties in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should come out slightly charred, brown on the outside while remaining tender but still with a bit of bite inside. This texture is key—nobody wants mushy sprouts!

Step 5: Whip Up the Dressing

While your Brussels sprouts are roasting, it’s time to prepare that tasty dressing! In a small jar, combine 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of orange juice (or lemon juice), 2 teaspoons of maple syrup (or honey), 2 teaspoons of mustard, ½ teaspoon of salt, and two twists of black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake it well until everything is combined smoothly.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once roasted to perfection, transfer your Brussels sprouts onto a serving platter. Drizzle generously with that delicious dressing you prepared earlier. You can feel free to add some boiled chestnuts or pomegranate seeds on top for an extra touch!

Enjoy this delightful dish as part of your meals—it’s bound to become a favorite among family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts to perfection is easier than you think, and a few simple tips can take your dish from good to unforgettable!

• Choose fresh sprouts: Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts will have better flavor and texture. Look for vibrant green heads without wilting or yellowing leaves.

• Cut evenly: Halving the Brussels sprouts ensures they cook uniformly. If some pieces are larger than others, they may not roast at the same rate, leaving some undercooked while others become overly charred.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing out the Brussels sprouts allows them to roast rather than steam. This gives them that lovely caramelization and crispy edges that make them so delicious.

• Experiment with spices: While the simple olive oil, salt, and pepper combination is classic, feel free to add other spices like garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a kick. These can enhance their flavor profile significantly!

• Adjust roasting time based on size: Smaller Brussels sprouts may need less time in the oven than larger ones. Keep an eye on them during roasting and adjust as needed for optimal results.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make for a stunning presentation on any table, especially when dressed with a vibrant sauce. Here’s how you can elevate your dish even further:

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of toasted almonds or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the roasted sprouts.

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or chives can brighten up your dish with color and freshness, enhancing its visual appeal and flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: This light yet filling salad combines quinoa with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, providing a nice contrast to the rich flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts.

• Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy sweet potatoes offer a comforting sweetness that pairs beautifully with the slightly bitter notes of the sprouts. Plus, their vibrant orange color adds visual interest to your plate.

• Garlic Lemon Roasted Chicken: For those looking for protein options, this juicy chicken dish infused with garlic and lemon complements roasted vegetables splendidly while keeping your meal wholesome.

With these tips and pairings in mind, you’ll be ready to serve up Roasted Brussels Sprouts that are not just delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover roasted Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the roasted Brussels sprouts to cool completely.
• Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the frozen or refrigerated Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet.
• Roast for about 10-15 minutes, just until heated through. For crispiness, you can broil them for an additional minute or two.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Roasted Brussels Sprouts.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! However, they’ll release more moisture than fresh ones. Ensure they are thawed and pat dry before roasting for best results.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

To amp up the flavor of your Roasted Brussels Sprouts, consider adding garlic cloves, red pepper flakes, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (if not avoiding dairy).

What are some good side dishes to pair with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with roasted meats, grain bowls, or hearty salads. They also work well alongside other roasted vegetables!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Brussels Sprouts! Their nutty flavor and delightful texture make them a fantastic addition to any meal, especially during the colder months. Enjoy experimenting with variations and sharing this dish with loved ones. Happy cooking!