Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Brussels sprouts are not just for the holidays; they’re perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. With their nutty flavor and tender-crisp texture, these little green gems shine on any table. Plus, when dressed with our bold, creamy, tangy maple syrup or honey mustard dressing, they become a true standout!

This recipe is a favorite of mine because it’s simple yet so satisfying. The combination of roasting and a zesty dressing elevates Brussels sprouts from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, these Roasted Brussels Sprouts will impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this tasty side on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Even those who claim to dislike Brussels sprouts will be won over by their rich flavor and crispy edges!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the dressing in advance, making this recipe great for entertaining or meal prep.
• Delicious flavor: The mix of savory roasted sprouts with a sweet and tangy dressing creates an irresistible taste sensation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You might already have many of these items in your pantry!

For the 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 with these variations:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts before serving for added texture.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick!
• Sweeten it up: Substitute the maple syrup with agave nectar if you’re looking for a different sweetness.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be sprinkled on before roasting for an aromatic touch.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key to getting those lovely crispy edges that make roasted Brussels sprouts so delightful. If you like, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

With a paring knife, trim the woody stem of each Brussels sprout and remove any outer leaves that look brown. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen cloth. This step ensures they roast evenly and don’t steam in moisture.

Step 3: Toss with Oil and Seasoning

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and add them to your baking tray. Drizzle with ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, and give them two twists of black pepper. Toss everything together until each sprout is well-coated. Arranging them in a single layer helps them roast beautifully without steaming.

Step 4: Roast the Sprouts

Roast the Brussels sprouts for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! They should turn slightly charred and brown on the outside while remaining tender inside—perfectly cooked but still with a bite.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

While your sprouts are roasting, let’s whip up that delicious dressing! In a small jar (or bowl), 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 of black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake well—or whisk together until smooth if using a bowl.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once your roasted Brussels sprouts are ready, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with that zesty dressing we made earlier.

Step 7: Nico’s Serving Tip

For an extra special touch during dinner parties or festive occasions, consider adding some boiled chestnuts, a drizzle of tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, and crushed hazelnuts on top!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts! They truly make every meal feel like an occasion.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts to perfection can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing out the sprouts allows them to roast evenly and develop that desirable caramelization. If they’re too close together, they might steam instead of roast.

• Experiment with seasoning: While our maple syrup or honey mustard dressing is delicious, don’t hesitate to try different herbs and spices. A sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika can add an exciting depth of flavor.

• Adjust cooking time based on size: Smaller Brussels sprouts may need less time in the oven compared to larger ones. Keep an eye on them during roasting and adjust as needed for perfect tenderness.

• Finish with a squeeze of citrus: Adding a fresh squeeze of lemon or orange juice right before serving brightens the dish and enhances the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Present them in an attractive way to impress your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Toasted nuts: Crushed almonds or walnuts provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the sprouts.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of Brussels sprouts perfectly.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic create a comfort food classic that pairs well with any roasted vegetable.
• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and herbs makes for a hearty main course alongside your flavorful Brussels sprouts.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds brightness and sweetness that balances the savory notes of the roasted veggies beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Roasted Brussels Sprouts will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy this delicious side dish as part of your fall or winter meals, making each bite memorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare these delicious sprouts ahead of time, making them a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer cooled Brussels sprouts to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Allow the roasted Brussels sprouts to cool completely.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that freezing may slightly change their texture upon reheating.

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, or until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can microwave them for quick reheating but they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

Yes! While fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting.

How do I make my Roasted Brussels Sprouts extra crispy?

For crispier sprouts, try cutting them into smaller pieces and ensure they are well spaced on the baking sheet. A high-temperature roast also helps achieve that desirable crunch!

What can I serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These delicious sprouts pair well with a variety of dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even pasta. They make an excellent side dish for any meal!

Are Roasted Brussels Sprouts healthy?

Absolutely! Roasted Brussels Sprouts are low in calories and packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins C and K. They’re great for any healthy diet!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Roasted Brussels Sprouts! Their rich flavors and crunchy texture make them a standout side dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner at home or entertaining guests during the holidays, this recipe is sure to elevate your meal. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!