Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying side dish that will steal the show at your next gathering, these Roasted Brussels Sprouts are just the ticket! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With their delightful nutty flavor and tender-crisp texture, they pair perfectly with our creamy, tangy maple syrup or honey mustard dressing. Plus, they are so easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: You only need a few simple steps to create this delicious dish. Just toss and roast!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even those who claim not to like Brussels sprouts often come back for seconds when they’re roasted to perfection.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep your Brussels sprouts in advance and simply roast them when you’re ready to serve!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasting and a zesty dressing elevates the natural taste of Brussels sprouts into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for these delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts!

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

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add extra crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes before roasting for a touch of heat.
• Incorporate cheese: For those who enjoy dairy, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts during the last few minutes of roasting.
• Season differently: Experiment with different herbs and spices like garlic powder or thyme for a unique twist.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that beautiful caramelization on the Brussels sprouts. If you’d like, line your baking sheet with parchment paper—it makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Using a paring knife, trim the woody stem from each sprout and remove any brown outer leaves. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen cloth. Drying them ensures they get that lovely crispy exterior.

Step 3: Halve and Season

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and place them on your baking tray. Toss them with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon of 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 Them Up!

Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You want to see slight charring on the outside while keeping them tender inside—this balance is key to great flavor!

Step 5: Make the Dressing

While your Brussels sprouts are roasting away, it’s time to prepare the dressing! In a small jar, combine 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of orange juice (or lemon juice), along with 2 teaspoons each of maple syrup (or honey), mustard, ½ teaspoon salt, and two twists of black pepper. Close the jar tightly and shake vigorously until everything is perfectly blended. If you’d prefer, you can also whisk these ingredients together in a bowl.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once your sprouts are out of the oven and looking beautifully roasted, transfer them onto a serving platter. Drizzle your homemade dressing over the top—this is where all those delicious flavors come together!

Step 7: Nico’s Serving Tip

For an extra special touch at dinner time, consider adding some boiled chestnuts, a drizzle of tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, and crushed hazelnuts over your roasted Brussels sprouts. It adds both flavor and visual appeal!

Enjoy these scrumptious Roasted Brussels Sprouts as they warm your heart and home!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll achieve perfect results every time!

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Opt for bright green, firm Brussels sprouts without brown spots. Freshness ensures better flavor and texture.
• Cut Evenly: Halve the Brussels sprouts uniformly to promote even cooking. This way, they all roast beautifully at the same rate, giving you that perfect tender-crisp bite.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your sprouts plenty of space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents them from getting that lovely golden-brown char we all crave.
• Experiment with Seasonings: While the dressing is delicious, feel free to add garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or even smoked paprika before roasting for an extra flavor kick.
• Serve Immediately: Roasted Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they are still warm and crispy. If they sit too long, they may lose their delightful crunch.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your roasted Brussels sprouts in a beautiful way can make your meal even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
• Toasted Nuts: Add a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts for added crunch and richness that complements the sprouts nicely.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes pairs excellently with the nutty flavor of roasted sprouts, making for a comforting side dish.
• Lentil Soup: A hearty lentil soup adds protein and fiber to your meal while keeping it cozy and satisfying during fall and winter months.
• Garlic Roasted Cauliflower: The earthy flavors of garlic roasted cauliflower harmonize beautifully with Brussels sprouts, creating a colorful and nutritious plate.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll not only enjoy delicious roasted Brussels sprouts but also impress your family and friends at your next gathering! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making weeknight meals a breeze. Here’s how you can store and keep your delicious sprouts fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted Brussels sprouts to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Spread the cooled Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing excess air.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil.
• Roast for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

Have questions about Roasted Brussels Sprouts? We’ve got you covered!

Can I make Roasted Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast them ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for the best texture.

What goes well with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with many dishes! Try them alongside roasted chicken, quinoa salad, or even atop a grain bowl for added flavor and nutrients.

How do I make Roasted Brussels Sprouts crispy?

For crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, ensure they are spaced out on the baking sheet and not overcrowded. The hot air needs room to circulate around each sprout!

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

While fresh is best, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just thaw them completely before roasting, and reduce cooking time if needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen! With its rich flavors and delightful crunch, it’s sure to impress at any gathering or simply brighten your weeknight meals. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists and experiences—I’d love to hear from you!