Transform your perception of vegetables with this incredible Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe! This dish turns the often-dreaded Brussels sprout into a truly spectacular side dish that even skeptics will adore. Roasted in the oven until perfectly tender and caramelized, these mini cabbages are then generously tossed in a vibrant, sweet, and tangy balsamic and honey mixture that complements their earthy flavor beautifully. Get ready to experience Brussels sprouts like never before – a truly irresistible addition to any meal!
Learning How to Cook Brussels Sprouts properly is the secret to unlocking their delicious potential, far removed from the mushy, bitter memories of childhood. When prepared correctly, Brussels sprouts are not just palatable; they’re pretty hard to resist! This guide will equip you with all the advice you need to become a Brussels sprouts enthusiast, turning a humble vegetable into a culinary highlight. Say goodbye to bland, and hello to brilliantly flavored roasted Brussels sprouts!
Why You’ll Adore This Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe
For too long, Brussels sprouts have unfairly carried a reputation as a less-than-desirable vegetable. But with the right approach, they can be utterly delicious, and this Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe is a testament to that transformation. I’ve often eyed those bags of Brussels sprouts at the market, waiting for the perfect moment when they looked fresh and vibrant enough to create a truly outstanding dish. The key to their amazing flavor lies in selecting quality produce and mastering the roasting technique.
When you find fresh Brussels sprouts, ideally those with bright green leaves tightly adhered to their mini-cabbage-like orbs, you’re halfway to success. Even a standard one-pound bag from your local grocery store can yield fantastic results with proper preparation. By simply trimming the stem end and removing any wilted or discolored outer leaves, you set the stage for a delightful culinary experience. Once prepped, the remaining steps are surprisingly straightforward, leading to a side dish that’s both healthy and incredibly flavorful.
- Unleash Natural Sweetness: Roasting vegetables is a magical process. The high heat caramelizes their natural sugars, bringing out a depth of sweetness that boiling or steaming simply can’t achieve. This method truly elevates the humble Brussels sprout.
- Enhanced Flavor Profile: The addition of a simple yet elegant vinaigrette after roasting infuses the sprouts with even more incredible taste. It’s the perfect finishing touch that brightens and balances the roasted flavors.
- Sweet and Tangy Perfection: The honey balsamic mixture is the star here, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the earthy notes of the Brussels sprouts. This combination makes for the absolute best roasted Brussels sprouts you’ll ever taste.
- Kid-Friendly Appeal: Don’t let childhood prejudices dictate your family’s eating habits! You can playfully introduce these “mini cabbages” to your children, making it fun and enticing for them to try a new, properly cooked vegetable that’s bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Side Dish: These Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They pair wonderfully with a wide array of main courses, from roasted chicken and pan-seared fish to hearty steaks and vegetarian dishes, making them a go-to for any meal.
Essential Ingredients for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Creating truly spectacular Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts begins with selecting quality ingredients and understanding how each contributes to the final masterpiece. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Brussels Sprouts: The star of our show! Look for firm, bright green sprouts without many loose or yellowed leaves. Freshness is paramount for optimal flavor and texture. For this recipe, about one pound is ideal for four servings.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This serves two crucial roles: it helps the sprouts crisp up beautifully in the oven and acts as a base for the vinaigrette. Using a good quality olive oil can make a difference in the overall taste.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the sprouts. Kosher salt is often preferred for its texture and even distribution.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor. Always opt for freshly ground for the best results.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For those who enjoy a little kick! A pinch can add a delightful warmth without overpowering the dish. Adjust to your personal preference.
- Best Quality Balsamic Vinegar: This is where the magic truly happens. A good quality, aged balsamic vinegar offers a rich, complex sweetness and tang that is unparalleled. Avoid overly thin or watery vinegars. The better the balsamic, the better your final dish will taste.
- Honey: Provides a natural sweetness that beautifully balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. It also helps create that lovely glaze on the sprouts. Local honey can add an extra layer of unique flavor.
Having these key ingredients on hand ensures you’re set up for success in preparing a side dish that’s both simple and sensationally flavorful.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
The secret to perfect Brussels sprouts, much like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower, lies in avoiding overcooking. Overcooked sprouts can turn grayish, become mushy, and unfortunately, develop a strong, unpleasant smell. Our goal is vibrant green, tender-crisp sprouts with a delicious caramelized exterior. Follow these steps for success:
- Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Sprouts: Begin by preheating your oven to a high temperature, typically 425-450ºF (220-230ºC). High heat is crucial for roasting, ensuring a crispy exterior and tender interior. While the oven heats, prepare your Brussels sprouts. Depending on their size, you may need to cut them in half to ensure even cooking. Smaller sprouts can be left whole, but cutting larger ones helps them roast uniformly and creates more surface area for caramelization.
- Coat with Olive Oil: Place the trimmed and halved sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil, using just enough for a light, even coating. You want them glistening, not swimming in oil. This oil facilitates browning and helps seasonings adhere.
- Season Generously: Next, it’s time for seasoning. A sprinkling of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential and a given. But don’t hesitate to get creative! Shake things up with some minced garlic or finely chopped shallots for aromatic depth. A pinch of Creole seasoning can add a spicy kick, or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat. Other options include dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Transfer the seasoned Brussels sprouts to a large, rimmed baking sheet. It’s critical to arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they have plenty of space. Crowding the pan will cause the sprouts to steam rather than roast, preventing them from developing that desirable caramelized crust. Aim for caramelization, not steaming! If necessary, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
- Roast to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roasting time will vary based on the size of your Brussels sprouts, but a good starting point is 20-25 minutes. After about 10-12 minutes, give the sprouts a good stir or toss them with a spatula to ensure even browning on all sides. Continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork and have lovely browned, crispy edges. They should still maintain a nice bright green color. A little resistance when pierced with a sharp knife is perfectly fine – it’s better than mushy!
- Toss with the Balsamic Glaze: Once roasted, immediately transfer the warm Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, best quality balsamic vinegar, and honey to create a delicious glaze. Pour this mixture over the hot sprouts and toss gently to coat them evenly. The warmth of the sprouts will help the glaze cling beautifully. Serve them hot and enjoy the incredible sweet and savory flavors! A simple drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar on its own is also a fantastic, simple alternative if you prefer less sweetness.
Raw, trimmed sprouts – Tossed with oil and seasonings – Roasted to perfection
Frequently Asked Questions About Brussels Sprouts
Proper trimming is key for both aesthetics and taste. If you’ve purchased a stalk of Brussels sprouts, carefully cut each sprout off the main stem. Once separated, inspect each sprout. Before slicing them in half (if desired), trim any scraggly, tough, or discolored stem ends straight across. For sprouts bought in a bag, you’ll typically find the stem ends are a bit dried out. Simply remove any wilted or yellowed exterior leaves, then give the stem end a fresh, clean trim. This quick step makes a significant difference in their palatability and ensures they cook evenly.
To preserve the delicious texture of your roasted Brussels sprouts, it’s generally best to reheat them using a similar method to how they were originally cooked. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and spread the leftover sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Warm them for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly re-crisped. While microwaving is a convenient option in a pinch (especially when hunger strikes!), it tends to steam the sprouts, making them softer rather than restoring their desired crispiness. For the best flavor and texture, the oven is your go-to.
Absolutely! Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with numerous benefits that make them an excellent addition to a healthy diet. Here’s a detailed look at why you should incorporate them into your meals:
They’re an outstanding source of Soluble Fiber, which plays a vital role in digestive health. This fiber adds bulk to your stool, facilitating its movement through the digestive tract and promoting regularity. However, as with any fiber-rich food, be mindful of overindulging, as it can sometimes lead to digestive side effects like bloating and gas.
Brussels sprouts are brimming with essential vitamins and minerals, including high levels of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Folate, and Manganese. Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone health, while Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function. Folate is important for cell growth and function, and manganese is involved in various metabolic processes. A special note: if you are on blood-thinning medication like Coumadin (Warfarin), it’s important to consult your doctor about your Vitamin K intake, as it can affect medication effectiveness.
They also contain potent Antioxidants, which are compounds that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants contribute to overall good health, reduce inflammation, and may lower the risk of certain chronic diseases, potentially including some cancers.
Studies suggest that the high fiber content in Brussels sprouts can help maintain healthy Blood Sugar Levels. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing rapid spikes and crashes, which is particularly beneficial for managing diabetes.
Surprisingly, Brussels sprouts are also a source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). While ALA is the plant-based form of Omega-3s and is converted into EPA and DHA (the forms found in fatty fish) less efficiently, it still contributes to heart health and reduces inflammation. This makes them a valuable option for increasing Omega-3 intake, especially for those on plant-based diets.
The infamous smell associated with Brussels sprouts (and other cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and broccoli) is due to sulfur-containing compounds called glucosinolates. When these vegetables are exposed to high heat for too long, these compounds break down and produce hydrogen sulfide, which creates that distinct “rotten egg” aroma. The key to avoiding this unpleasant smell is quick cooking at high temperatures. As Shirley Corriher, author of Cookwise, wisely advises, methods like high-heat sautéing, broiling, or roasting cook Brussels sprouts in the shortest amount of time, minimizing the release of these smelly compounds and ensuring a sweet, nutty flavor instead.
The correct spelling is Brussels Sprouts. This vegetable is named after the capital city of Belgium, Brussels, hence the ‘s’ at the end. It’s a common mistake, with over 75% of the population often spelling it incorrectly without the final ‘s’. Remembering its geographical namesake can help ensure you always spell it right!
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are so flavorful, they can easily stand alone as a star side dish. However, they also beautifully complement a wide variety of main courses. Their sweet, tangy, and slightly savory profile makes them incredibly versatile. Consider serving them alongside:
- Roasted or Grilled Meats: They pair wonderfully with a succulent roasted chicken, a juicy pork loin, pan-seared steak, or grilled lamb chops. The richness of the meat is perfectly balanced by the bright flavors of the sprouts.
- Fish and Seafood: Light and flaky white fish like cod or halibut, or even richer salmon, are excellent companions. The acidity of the balsamic cuts through the fattiness, creating a harmonious meal.
- Vegetarian Mains: For a complete vegetarian meal, serve these sprouts with quinoa, a hearty lentil soup, a mushroom risotto, or a comforting pasta dish. They add a burst of flavor and a satisfying texture.
- Holiday Feasts: These Brussels sprouts are a fantastic addition to any holiday table, from Thanksgiving to Christmas. They offer a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes and are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Grain Bowls: Add them to your favorite grain bowl with roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and a protein of choice for a wholesome and flavorful lunch or dinner.
- Other Roasted Vegetables: Create a vibrant medley by serving them alongside other roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or cauliflower, allowing each vegetable’s natural sweetness to shine.
More Delightful Side Dish Recipes You May Also Like
If you’re looking to expand your repertoire of delicious and easy side dishes, especially those featuring roasted vegetables, you’ve come to the right place. These recipes offer similar ease of preparation and incredible flavor, perfect for complementing any meal:
- Roasted Asparagus with Garlic from Kalyn’s Kitchen: A simple yet elegant classic, perfect for spring.
- Honey Mustard Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Another fantastic way to enjoy Brussels sprouts with a zesty twist.
- Oven Roasted Cauliflower: Transform plain cauliflower into a tender, nutty delight.
- Roasted Autumn Vegetables: A colorful and flavorful mix, perfect for seasonal eating.
- Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots: Sweet and savory, these carrots are an irresistible side.
- Roasted Green Beans: A simple and crowd-pleasing way to enjoy fresh green beans.
- Discover even more incredible Vegetable Side Dishes to inspire your next meal.
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Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
10 minutes
20 minutes
30 minutes
4 servings
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: how to turn these dreaded vegetables into one amazing side dish!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 2 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tablespoon best quality balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425º.
- Toss Brussels sprouts with 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil.
- Place on a rimmed baking sheet and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
- Roast for 20 minutes or till tender, tossing after 10 minutes.
- Whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey.
- When Brussels sprouts are cooked, add them to a serving bowl and toss them with the balsamic mixture. Serve hot.
Notes
If you use a whole stalk of Brussels sprouts, you may need to double the rest of the ingredients.
Recommended Products
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- 3 Pyrex Mixing Bowls
- Black Spatula
- USA Pan Bakeware Half Sheet Pan
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4
Serving Size:
1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 86Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 267mgCarbohydrates: 3gFiber: 0gSugar: 2gProtein: 0g
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