Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both tasty and easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Brussels sprouts are one of those magical dishes that can brighten up any meal. Their nutty flavor and tender-crisp texture make them a favorite in our household, especially during the cozy fall and winter months. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, these little green gems always steal the show!

What I adore about this recipe is how versatile it is. The zesty maple syrup or honey mustard dressing adds just the right amount of tang, making every bite delightful. Plus, it’s simple enough that even the busiest of us can whip it up without breaking a sweat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of hands-on time, you can have this dish ready to roast while you focus on other parts of your meal.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The rich, nutty taste of roasted Brussels sprouts is loved by both kids and adults alike. It’s a win-win!
• Perfectly Versatile: Use this as a side dish for any occasion, from everyday dinners to holiday feasts—guaranteed to impress!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the dressing ahead of time and roast the sprouts just before serving for maximum freshness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s get into the good stuff! These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making for a deliciously satisfying dish.

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 roasted Brussels sprouts is their flexibility. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes before roasting for a little heat.
• Sweeten It Up: Try drizzling with balsamic glaze instead of maple syrup for a sweet-tart twist.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting to elevate the flavor profile.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Brussels sprouts roast evenly and achieve that lovely golden-brown color we all love. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is optional but helps with easy cleanup!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Using a paring knife, trim off the woody stems from 1 pound of Brussels sprouts and remove any outer leaves that look brown. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen cloth. Drying them well helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Halve and Season

Next, cut each sprout in half lengthwise and add them to your baking tray. Toss them with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and two twists of black pepper until they’re well coated. Arranging them in a single layer helps them roast evenly.

Step 4: Roast Away!

Roast your seasoned 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. That perfect balance makes all the difference!

Step 5: Make the Dressing

While your sprouts are roasting, grab a small jar or bowl to prepare your dressing. 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 black pepper. Shake well to combine or whisk until smooth.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once your Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle over that zesty dressing you just made. Trust me; this step takes everything over the top!

Step 7: Nico’s Serving Tip

For an extra special touch at dinner, consider adding boiled chestnuts, a drizzle of tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, and crushed hazelnuts on top before serving. It’s like adding little bursts of joy!

Enjoy your delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts is a delightful way to bring out their natural flavors, and with these tips, you can take your dish to the next level!

• Choose fresh sprouts: Look for bright green, firm Brussels sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Fresh sprouts will give you the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Space your Brussels sprouts out on the baking sheet; this allows for even roasting and helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
• Experiment with seasoning: While the dressing provided is delicious, feel free to add spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika before roasting for an extra flavor boost.
• Use high heat: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) ensures a nice caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside tender. This balance is key to achieving those irresistible bites!
• Serve immediately: Roasted Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re at their crispiest. If you let them sit too long, they may lose their delightful crunch.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your roasted Brussels sprouts beautifully can enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to elevate this simple yet tasty side dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Toasted nuts or seeds: Add some toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch that complements the tender sprouts.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light and nutritious quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with roasted Brussels sprout’s earthy flavors.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that balances the roasted savory notes of the sprouts.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes enhances the nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts, making them a perfect match on your plate.

With these serving ideas and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this fantastic roasted Brussels sprouts dish! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Spread the cooled Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Brussels Sprouts that can help you make this dish even better!

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

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

How do I enhance the flavor of Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

To elevate your Roasted Brussels Sprouts, consider adding ingredients like garlic, balsamic vinegar, or your favorite herbs and spices before roasting. This will bring out even more delicious flavors!

What should I serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with almost any main dish! Consider serving them alongside grilled chicken, quinoa salads, or hearty grain bowls.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Brussels Sprouts! Their delightful crunch and rich flavor make them a standout side dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with different dressings and toppings to make it your own. Happy cooking!