Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a side dish that not only brings vibrant flavor but is also packed with nutrition, you’ve found it with these Roasted Brussels Sprouts! This recipe has become a cherished staple in my kitchen, especially during the cozy fall and winter months. The combination of the nutty, caramelized sprouts paired with a creamy, tangy dressing makes it irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this dish always steals the spotlight.

What I love most about Roasted Brussels Sprouts is how simple they are to prepare. Plus, they can be easily dressed up for special occasions or kept casual for everyday meals. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful side dish ready in under 35 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts will be asking for seconds. The flavors are just that good!
• Make-Ahead Opportunity: Roast your Brussels sprouts earlier in the day and reheat them when it’s time to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted nuttiness and tangy dressing creates a delightful balance that complements any meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an everyday side or dress them up for holiday feasts—either way, they shine!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Roasted Brussels Sprouts is simple! You probably already have many of these wholesome items at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

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! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some sliced carrots or sweet potatoes before roasting for added color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving for a little heat.
• Nutty Crunch: Top your sprouts with toasted almonds or walnuts right before serving to add texture.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’d like, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup. With a paring knife, trim the woody stem of each halved Brussels sprout and remove any brown outer leaves. Rinse them well and gently pat dry. This step is essential because drying them helps achieve that beautiful crispiness when roasted.

Step 2: Season and Roast

Cut each sprout in half lengthwise and place them on your baking tray. Drizzle them with ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of salt, and add two twists of black pepper. Toss everything together until well coated and arrange in a single layer. Roasting for 20-25 minutes allows them to get slightly charred on the outside while remaining tender inside—a perfect balance!

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

While the sprouts roast, let’s whip up 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), 2 teaspoons of maple syrup (or honey), and 2 teaspoons of mustard. Add another ½ teaspoon of salt and two twists of black pepper before sealing the jar tightly. Shake it well until everything is combined—this dressing adds such a lovely zing!

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Once your Brussels sprouts are beautifully roasted—golden brown on the edges yet tender inside—transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with your homemade dressing, making sure every sprout gets its fair share of flavor.

Nico’s serving tip: For an extra special touch during dinner gatherings, consider adding some boiled chestnuts, a drizzle of tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, and crushed hazelnuts on top!

Enjoy your deliciously roasted creation!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Getting the perfect roasted Brussels sprouts is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure you achieve that delicious, crispy texture every time.

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Look for firm, green Brussels sprouts with no yellowing or blemishes. Fresh sprouts have a sweeter flavor and better texture when roasted.
• Dry Thoroughly: After rinsing your Brussels sprouts, make sure to dry them well. Excess moisture can steam the sprouts instead of roasting them, preventing that coveted crispy exterior.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on your baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming rather than roasting, resulting in soggy sprouts.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize your dressing or add spices such as garlic powder or smoked paprika. This flexibility allows you to elevate the flavor profile to suit your taste!
• Adjust Cooking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your sprouts as they roast. If you prefer them extra crispy, you might want to roast them a few minutes longer—just be careful not to burn them!

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Presenting roasted Brussels sprouts beautifully can make all the difference at your dinner table. With their vibrant color and tempting aroma, this dish is sure to impress!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh parsley or thyme on top enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted almonds or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sprouts perfectly.
• Zest of Citrus: Grating some lemon or orange zest over the finished dish brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts while adding a nutritious element.
• Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash offers a comforting contrast in texture and sweetness that balances the slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts.
• Roasted Carrots: Honey-glazed roasted carrots bring out sweetness and provide a lovely color contrast on your plate, making for an appealing meal.
• Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup adds heartiness to your meal while being healthy and filling—perfect for chilly evenings.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy a truly delightful dish of roasted Brussels sprouts! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily roast a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Roast the Brussels sprouts as directed and let them cool.
• Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave, but they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

If you’re wondering about Roasted Brussels Sprouts, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for roasting?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before roasting for optimal results.

How do I make my Roasted Brussels Sprouts extra crispy?

To achieve that delightful crispiness, ensure your sprouts are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Additionally, consider giving them a light drizzle of olive oil before roasting.

What dishes pair well with Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These roasted delights are versatile! They complement roasted meats, grain bowls, or even pasta dishes beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Brussels Sprouts as much as I do! Their rich flavor and satisfying crunch make them a special addition to any meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with add-ins like nuts or seeds for an extra twist. Happy cooking!