Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that combines simplicity with a burst of flavor, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Brussels sprouts are one of those magical dishes that can elevate any meal. Their rich, nutty flavor paired with a creamy, tangy dressing makes them perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights!

I absolutely adore this recipe because it brings out the best in Brussels sprouts—caramelized edges and tender bites that make everyone ask for seconds. Let’s dive into why you’ll want these roasted gems on your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just 35 minutes, you can prepare a delicious side dish that impresses everyone.
• Family-Friendly: The subtle sweetness and crispy texture are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters!
• Versatile: Perfect for holiday feasts or casual weeknight dinners, these roasted Brussels sprouts fit any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the sprouts and dressing in advance, saving time when you need it most.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this dish is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! This recipe requires just a handful of items that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to make those delicious roasted Brussels sprouts.

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 them to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an added texture.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes before roasting to give your sprouts a delightful kick.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting for an aromatic twist.
• Cheesy Delight: Top with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese before serving for a cheesy flavor without any dairy.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting vegetables, allowing them to caramelize beautifully while keeping their crispiness. If you’d like less cleanup, feel free to line your baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Using a paring knife, trim the woody stem from each half pound of Brussels sprouts and remove any outer leaves that look brown. Rinsing them under water will help wash away any dirt—just be sure to pat them dry with a kitchen cloth afterward. This step is important because excess moisture can prevent them from getting that lovely roasted finish.

Step 3: Season the Sprouts

Place the halved Brussels sprouts onto your prepared baking tray. Drizzle them with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle on ½ teaspoon salt, and add those two twists of black pepper. Toss everything together until all the sprouts are coated evenly; this ensures every bite is flavorful!

Step 4: Roast Away!

Roast your seasoned Brussels sprouts in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. They should come out slightly charred and brown on the outside but tender inside—just enough bite to keep things interesting! While they roast, let’s whip up that tasty dressing.

Step 5: Make the 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, and 2 teaspoons mustard along with ½ teaspoon salt and another two twists of black pepper. Close the jar and shake well to mix everything together thoroughly; alternatively, whisking in a bowl works too! This dressing adds that creamy tanginess we all love.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once those beautiful roasted Brussels sprouts are done baking, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with your homemade dressing for an irresistible finish.

Step 7: Nico’s Serving Tip

For an extra special touch at dinner parties or holiday meals, consider adding some boiled chestnuts, a drizzle of tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, or crushed hazelnuts on top!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful side dish! I hope you find as much joy in making these Roasted Brussels Sprouts as I do sharing them with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts to perfection is all about technique and a few simple tips that can elevate your dish!

• Choose fresh sprouts – Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green. Fresh vegetables provide the best flavor and texture, ensuring your dish is delicious.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Giving each sprout enough space to breathe allows them to roast evenly and develop that lovely caramelization. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast.
• Experiment with temperature – Adjusting the roasting temperature can create different textures. For a softer bite, roast at a lower temperature; for crispy edges, crank up the heat.
• Add a pinch of sweetness – A touch of sweetness from maple syrup or honey enhances the natural flavor of Brussels sprouts, balancing their bitterness beautifully.
• Try additional spices – Feel free to get creative with spices! A sprinkle of garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or even smoked paprika can add an exciting twist to your roasted veggies.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Serving roasted Brussels sprouts is as much about presentation as it is about flavor! Here are some fun ideas to make them shine on your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs – A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the rich taste of roasted sprouts.
• Toasted nuts or seeds – Adding crushed walnuts or pumpkin seeds provides a delightful crunch and makes the dish more satisfying.
• Zest of citrus – A little lemon or orange zest sprinkled on top right before serving brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing aroma.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with roasted Brussels sprouts. The nutty flavor of quinoa complements them beautifully while adding protein.
• Sweet Potato Mash – Creamy sweet potato mash provides a comforting contrast to the crispy texture of the sprouts. Plus, their natural sweetness balances well with the savory flavors.
• Lentil Stew – This hearty lentil stew brings warmth and depth to your meal. The earthiness of lentils pairs wonderfully with Brussels sprouts for a filling combination.
• Roasted Carrots – Brightly colored roasted carrots drizzled with honey offer a beautiful contrast in color and taste. Their sweetness harmonizes well with the flavors in this dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress your guests (or yourself!) with an unforgettable side of roasted Brussels sprouts. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for quick, delicious side dishes throughout the week.

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

• Let the roasted Brussels sprouts cool entirely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the frozen or refrigerated Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

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

Can I make Roasted Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the Brussels sprouts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above to maintain their flavor and texture.

What goes well with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Roasted Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. They make an excellent side for grilled chicken, fish, or even vegetarian meals like quinoa salads or grain bowls.

How do I get my Roasted Brussels Sprouts crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispiness, ensure that your oven is fully preheated and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Spacing them out allows hot air to circulate and helps them brown evenly.

Can I use a different dressing for my Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different dressings such as balsamic glaze, tahini sauce, or even a simple lemon vinaigrette to complement the natural flavors of the sprouts.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth to any meal. Don’t hesitate to try adding your personal touch with extra toppings or different dressings. Happy cooking!