Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, these Roasted Brussels Sprouts are the perfect choice! They bring a lovely nutty flavor and a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with any meal. I love to whip these up for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, they are a fantastic way to enjoy those vibrant seasonal veggies during fall and winter!

What makes these roasted beauties even better is the creamy, tangy dressing that drizzles over them. It adds just the right amount of zest that will have everyone asking for seconds! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want it on your table every chance you get.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious side ready in no time!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of nutty Brussels sprouts and a tangy dressing creates an irresistible taste.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy these flavorful sprouts when served with the tasty dressing.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients, this dish is a guilt-free addition to any meal.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays or casual dinners alike, these sprouts fit any occasion seamlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Roasted Brussels Sprouts is so simple thanks to the wholesome ingredients you’ll find right in your kitchen. Each component combines beautifully to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor!

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! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these variations:

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Try adding red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
• Mix in Other Veggies: Feel free to roast other vegetables alongside the Brussels sprouts—carrots or sweet potatoes would work great!
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting for an aromatic touch.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you like, line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later. This step is crucial because it gets your oven hot enough to roast those sprouts perfectly!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

With a paring knife, trim the woody stem from your pound of Brussels sprouts and remove any outer leaves that look brown. Rinse them under cool water and pat them dry using a kitchen cloth. Drying them helps achieve that crispy exterior we all love!

Step 3: Cut and Season

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and place them on your baking tray. Drizzle 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 ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 4: Roast Away!

Pop those seasoned sprouts into your preheated oven and roast them for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for a nice charred brown color on the outside while keeping them tender inside. The roasting process really brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 5: Make the Dressing

While your sprouts are roasting, it’s time to prepare the dressing! In a small jar, combine 2 tablespoons of 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 another two twists of black pepper. Close it tightly and give it a good shake until everything blends together nicely. Alternatively, whisk these ingredients in a small bowl if that’s easier for you.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once your roasted Brussels sprouts are done cooking, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle generously with your delicious dressing. Give them a gentle toss if you’d like!

Step 7: Optional Serving Tip

For something truly special at dinner time, consider adding boiled chestnuts along with pomegranate seeds and crushed hazelnuts on top! This will elevate your dish even further—trust me; it’s worth it!

Enjoy these delightful Roasted Brussels Sprouts as they steal the show at your next meal!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts is a wonderful way to enhance their flavors, and these tips will help you achieve perfect results every time!

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green. Fresh sprouts have a better flavor and texture, making your dish irresistibly delicious.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each sprout enough space on the baking sheet. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast, resulting in less crispy edges.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to play with herbs and spices! Adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even red pepper flakes can give your Brussels sprouts an exciting twist.

• Try Different Dressings: While the maple syrup or honey mustard dressing is fantastic, you can also try balsamic glaze or tahini for a different flavor profile that complements the roasted sprouts beautifully.

• Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing your roasted Brussels sprouts to sit for a few minutes after taking them out of the oven helps them retain their crispiness while enhancing the overall flavor.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your Roasted Brussels Sprouts beautifully can elevate any meal. Here are some ideas for how to showcase this delightful side dish!

Garnishes

• Pomegranate Seeds: These add a pop of color and a burst of sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory roasted flavor.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives provides brightness and freshness that enhances the overall presentation.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the richness of the Brussels sprouts while adding a healthy grain to your meal.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are always a comforting choice that pairs perfectly with the nutty flavors of roasted sprouts.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add color and sweetness to your plate, making it not just delicious but visually appealing as well.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers: Whether you prefer chicken or plant-based options, skewers offer a tasty protein element that rounds out your meal beautifully alongside the roasted vegetables.

Enjoy creating this delightful dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delicious side dish in advance. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers so they stay fresh and tasty!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• Allow the roasted Brussels sprouts to cool completely before freezing.
• Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour to prevent clumping.
• Transfer the frozen sprouts to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply place the sprouts on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen sprouts, reheat directly from frozen by roasting them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed thoroughly.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Roasted Brussels Sprouts, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones. Just be aware that they may take longer to roast and might not get as crispy.

What pairs well with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These tasty sprouts complement many dishes! They work beautifully alongside roasted meats, grain bowls, or a hearty salad. Consider adding them to your Thanksgiving spread!

How do I make Roasted Brussels Sprouts crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispiness, ensure your Brussels sprouts are well spaced on the baking tray and avoid overcrowding. A higher roasting temperature also helps!

Can I add other vegetables when roasting?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like carrots or sweet potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on their size and density.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Brussels Sprouts are not just a side dish; they bring warmth and flavor to any meal. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. I hope you enjoy preparing these delightful sprouts as much as I do! Remember, cooking should always be an enjoyable adventure—happy roasting!