These Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a great side dish! Roasted until crispy and drizzled with tangy balsamic vinegar, they are both tasty and healthy.
I love how a little balsamic can make veggies go from “meh” to “wow!” They’re perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself on a cozy night in. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: The star of this dish! Look for bright green, firm Brussels sprouts. If you’re not a fan, you can swap them out for broccoli or cauliflower, which also roast beautifully.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives the best flavor. If you’re allergic, avocado oil or grapeseed oil are great alternatives, providing a nice taste without overpowering the dish.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a sweet and tangy kick. If you don’t have balsamic on hand, red wine vinegar with a touch of sugar can mimic the flavor profile.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These are optional for sweetness. If you’re vegan, go with pure maple syrup. You can also use agave syrup or leave it out for a more savory dish.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add a beautiful aroma. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs work too—just use less since they’re more concentrated.
Red Pepper Flakes: They add a bit of heat, but it’s totally optional! If you prefer milder flavors, you can simply leave them out or substitute with paprika for warmth.
How Can I Make Sure My Brussels Sprouts Are Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting Brussels sprouts correctly is key for a delicious result. Start by cutting them in half to ensure even cooking. Here are some tips:
- Space Them Out: Spread the sprouts out on your baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
- Coat Well: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re well-coated. This helps them caramelize properly.
- High Heat: Baking at 400°F (200°C) is ideal. This temperature helps achieve crispy edges while cooking the inside nicely.
- Turn Midway: Give them a toss halfway through roasting to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that nice golden color on all sides.
With these tips, you’ll get tender, flavorful Brussels sprouts every time! Enjoy your cooking.
How to Make Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 lb (450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Balsamic Glaze:
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness balance)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to roast for a total time of about 35 minutes. Just a bit of time for a flavorful, healthy addition to your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting Brussels sprouts to get them crispy and caramelized.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they are well-coated. Add the minced garlic and fresh herbs (if you’re using them) to the bowl and mix everything together until the sprouts are evenly coated.
3. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup!
4. Roast the Brussels Sprouts:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through cooking so they become golden brown and crispy on all sides.
5. Make the Balsamic Reduction:
While the sprouts are roasting, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (if you’re using it). Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture reduces and thickens slightly. Remove it from the heat when done.
6. Combine and Serve:
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, transfer them to a serving bowl. Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the warm sprouts and toss gently to coat them evenly.
7. Optional Garnishes:
If you’d like, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a little heat and garnish with additional fresh herbs. This adds flavor and makes the dish look pretty!
8. Enjoy:
Serve your Balsamic Brussels Sprouts warm as a flavorful side dish. They’re sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your delicious Balsamic Brussels Sprouts!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts Instead?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
How Can I Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps retain their crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! The recipe is already vegan-friendly if you use maple syrup instead of honey. Just make sure to stick with plant-based ingredients throughout.
How Do I Make Brussels Sprouts Less Bitter?
To reduce bitterness, try soaking halved Brussels sprouts in cold salted water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This can help mellow out their natural flavor. Additionally, roasting with a touch of sweetness (like honey or maple syrup) can balance their taste nicely!
