Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are the perfect side dish for any occasion, adding a burst of flavor and nutrition to your meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply enjoying a weeknight family meal, these roasted delights are sure to impress. Their rich, nutty flavor paired with a tangy maple syrup or honey mustard dressing makes them stand out. Plus, they are easy to prepare and work wonderfully alongside a variety of main dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while the dressing adds a tangy twist.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet side dish ready in under 35 minutes.
• Versatile Serving Options: These sprouts can be paired with various meals, making them suitable for holidays or casual dinners alike.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, they are a great addition to any balanced diet.
• Customizable Taste: Feel free to experiment with different dressings or toppings for added flair.

Tools and Preparation

To make delicious Roasted Brussels sprouts, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Paring knife
• Mixing jar or bowl
• Kitchen cloth

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting, allowing for consistent cooking and browning.
• Paring knife: Perfect for trimming and halving Brussels sprouts with precision.
• Mixing jar or bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients for your dressing without mess.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If desired, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

With a paring knife, trim the woody stems from the Brussels sprouts. Remove any outer leaves that look brown. Rinse them thoroughly and pat dry with a kitchen cloth.

Step 3: Cut and Toss

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise. Add them to your baking tray and toss with ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 twists of black pepper. Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Roast

Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes until they are slightly charred on the outside but tender inside. Stir them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 5: 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 of black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake well to combine. Alternatively, whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving platter and drizzle generously with your prepared dressing.

Serving Tip

For an elevated dining experience, consider adding boiled chestnuts, a drizzle of tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, and crushed hazelnuts as toppings!

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs well with many meals. Their nutty flavor and crispy texture complement various main dishes beautifully.

With Grains

• Quinoa Salad: Toss roasted Brussels sprouts into a quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added texture.
• Brown Rice: Serve alongside seasoned brown rice for a hearty, nutty combination.

With Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: The savory notes of grilled chicken enhance the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
• Baked Salmon: Pair with flaky baked salmon for a delicious contrast in flavors.

With Sauces

• Tahini Drizzle: A light tahini sauce adds creaminess and nuttiness to the dish.
• Vegan Ranch Dressing: Serve with a side of vegan ranch for a creamy dipping option.

How to Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Perfecting your roasted Brussels sprouts is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips for crisp-tender results every time.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper. Season generously for enhanced flavor.
• High temperature: Roast at 400°F (200°C) to achieve that desirable caramelization.
• Single layer: Arrange sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
• Toss halfway through: Give them a good toss halfway through cooking for uniform browning.
• Add acidity: A splash of vinegar or citrus juice after roasting brightens the flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with various side dishes that can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance the dish’s crunchiness.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges add sweetness and color to your plate.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the sprouts’ earthiness perfectly.
4. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw offers a crunchy, tangy contrast to roasted vegetables.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and veggies enhance presentation and taste.
6. Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower mash as a creamy alternative to potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts. Here are some pitfalls to be aware of:

• Bold trimming: Not trimming the ends properly can lead to tough, woody sprouts. Always trim the stem and remove any discolored leaves.
• Bold overcrowding: Placing too many sprouts on the baking tray can cause steaming instead of roasting. Make sure they are in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
• Bold not preheating: Skipping the preheating step can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before roasting.
• Bold ignoring seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t hesitate to use salt and pepper generously, and consider adding other spices or herbs for extra flavor.
• Bold overcooking: Cooking them too long can lead to mushy Brussels sprouts. Keep an eye on them and roast until they’re golden brown with a slight crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store roasted Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes for best results.
• Bold Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about roasted Brussels sprouts that may help enhance your cooking experience.

How do I make crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

To achieve crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, ensure they are spread out on the baking sheet without overcrowding. This allows air circulation and better browning.

Can I prepare Roasted Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep them by cutting and seasoning the sprouts a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast.

What can I serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes like grilled chicken, beef, or vegetarian entrees. They’re also excellent alongside grains like quinoa or brown rice.

Are Roasted Brussels Sprouts healthy?

Absolutely! Roasted Brussels sprouts are low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, making them a nutritious side dish option.

What variations can I try with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Feel free to customize by adding nuts, different spices, or even toppings like balsamic glaze or nutritional yeast for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. Their nutty flavor combined with the creamy dressing makes them a standout side dish suitable for various occasions. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings or toppings to make this recipe your own!