Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that can brighten up any meal, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. This recipe features a bold, creamy, tangy dressing that elevates the natural flavors of these little green gems. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just trying to spice up a busy weeknight dinner, these roasted Brussels sprouts will surely steal the show.

I love serving these during the fall and winter months when their nutty flavor shines through. The crispy edges paired with the tender inside create a perfect texture contrast, making them an irresistible addition to your table. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this tasty side dish ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Even those who claim not to like Brussels sprouts often change their minds after trying this recipe!
• Versatile for occasions: Perfect for holiday dinners or casual weeknight meals, these sprouts fit in anywhere.
• Healthy and wholesome: Packed with nutrients, they’re a great way to add veggies into your diet without compromising on flavor.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prepare the dressing and roast the Brussels sprouts ahead of time for convenience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s go over the simple and wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine! You likely have most of these items already in your pantry.

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 how flexible they can be! Here are a few variations to keep things exciting:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, before roasting for added texture.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before serving if you enjoy a little heat.
• Cheesy delight: For cheese lovers, sprinkle some nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese on top before roasting.
• Herb infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with your dressing for an aromatic twist.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is essential for getting that perfect crispy exterior. While it heats up, take your paring knife and trim the woody stem from each Brussels sprout. If any outer leaves look brown or wilted, remove those too. After rinsing them under cold water, pat them dry with a kitchen cloth—this step ensures they roast instead of steam.

Step 2: Halve and Season

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and add them to your baking tray. Toss them with ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and a couple of twists of black pepper. Make sure they are well-coated but arranged in a single layer—this allows them to roast evenly and develop that lovely golden-brown color.

Step 3: Roast Away!

Place your tray in the oven and roast those beautiful Brussels sprouts for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when they’re slightly charred on the outside but tender with just enough bite inside. The roasting process brings out those rich flavors!

Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing

While your sprouts are roasting away, let’s whip up that fabulous dressing! In a small jar (or bowl), 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 another couple of twists of black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake it well until everything is beautifully mixed together.

Step 5: Dress and Serve

Once your roasted Brussels sprouts are out of the oven, transfer them onto a serving platter. Drizzle that gorgeous dressing all over them—each bite will be packed full of flavor!

Step 6: Nico’s Special Touch

For an extra special touch at dinner parties or gatherings, consider adding some boiled chestnuts, a drizzle of tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, and crushed hazelnuts on top as suggested by my friend Nico!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful roasted Brussels sprouts! They truly make any meal feel festive and satisfying. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts can be a game-changer for your meals, and with these simple tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for bright green sprouts that are firm and tightly closed. Freshness ensures the best flavor and texture in your final dish.
• Cut Uniformly: Halving the sprouts evenly helps them cook at the same rate, leading to perfectly tender-crisp results. Uneven pieces may lead to some being overcooked while others remain raw.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Giving your sprouts enough space on the baking sheet allows them to roast instead of steam. This helps achieve a delightful crispy exterior.
• Experiment with Seasonings: While our dressing is delicious, don’t hesitate to try different herbs and spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Roasted Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed right after they come out of the oven. The longer they sit, the less crispy they become.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Serving roasted Brussels sprouts is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish truly shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and enhances the freshness of the dish.
• Toasted Nuts: Adding walnuts or almonds brings a lovely crunch that contrasts well with the tender sprouts.
• Zest: Grated lemon or orange zest elevates flavor with a bright citrus note that pairs beautifully with the dressing.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a light and nutritious counterpoint.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the slightly bitter notes of Brussels sprouts, creating a balanced plate.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: This creamy side is a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, offering comfort while keeping things healthy.
• Lentil Soup: A hearty lentil soup not only adds protein but also warms up those chilly fall evenings while being incredibly satisfying alongside your roasted dish.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this vibrant side! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week, making it a convenient and delicious side dish for any meal.

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 days.

Freezing

• Let the Brussels sprouts cool down to room temperature.
• Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen sprouts to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the Brussels sprouts in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Brussels Sprouts that might help you!

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones. Just remember they may release more moisture during cooking, so adjust your roasting time accordingly!

How do I make my Roasted Brussels Sprouts crispy?

To achieve extra crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts, be sure to space them out on the baking sheet without overcrowding. Also, roasting at high heat helps develop that desirable crunch.

What can I serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These roasted delights pair wonderfully with various main dishes such as grilled chicken, fish, or even quinoa salads. They also make a fantastic addition to holiday feasts!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! The combination of nutty flavors and tangy dressing makes it truly special. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings or serving ideas. Happy cooking!