Are you looking for a new and exciting way to prepare Brussels sprouts? Look no further than this delicious roasted Brussels sprouts recipe! Roasting is an excellent way to bring out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while also giving them a crispy texture that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Whether you are looking for a tasty side dish to serve with dinner or a healthy snack to munch on throughout the day, this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is sure to please. So why not give it a try today and discover the deliciousness of roasted Brussels sprouts for yourself?
Why Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Health Benefits
Brussels sprouts are a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, which means they’re loaded with nutrients that can help keep your body healthy. In particular, they’re a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. They also contain antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Taste Profile
Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a crispy texture that’s hard to resist. They have a nutty, slightly bitter flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and sauces. Some popular flavor combinations include:
- Balsamic vinegar and honey
- Garlic and lemon
- Parmesan cheese and black pepper
When roasting Brussels sprouts, it’s important to use high heat to get that crispy texture. You can roast them in the oven or on the stovetop, depending on your preference and the equipment you have available.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
The star of the show, of course, are the Brussels sprouts themselves. You’ll want to choose fresh, firm sprouts that are bright green and free of any yellowing or browning. Look for sprouts that are similar in size so that they cook evenly. You’ll need about 1.5 pounds of Brussels sprouts for this recipe.
Seasonings
To flavor your roasted Brussels sprouts, you’ll need a few basic seasonings. You can adjust the amounts of each seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
Oil
Finally, you’ll need some oil to help the Brussels sprouts roast to perfection. You can use any high-heat oil you like, but we recommend one of the following:
- Olive oil
- Avocado oil
- Grapeseed oil
Using a high-heat oil will help the Brussels sprouts get crispy and caramelized on the outside while staying tender on the inside. You’ll need about 3 tablespoons of oil for this recipe.
Equipment Needed
Baking Sheet
A baking sheet is a must-have for roasting Brussels sprouts. Look for a sturdy, rimmed baking sheet that can hold all of your sprouts in a single layer. You don’t want them to be crowded, or they won’t cook evenly.
Chef’s Knife
A sharp chef’s knife is essential for prepping your Brussels sprouts. You’ll need to trim the ends and halve them before roasting. A good knife will make this task much easier.
Cutting Board
You’ll need a cutting board to prep your Brussels sprouts. Look for a board that’s large enough to hold all of your sprouts comfortably.
Mixing Bowl
A mixing bowl is essential for tossing your Brussels sprouts with oil and seasonings before roasting. Look for a bowl that’s large enough to hold all of your sprouts without overcrowding them.
Spatula
A spatula is useful for flipping your Brussels sprouts halfway through the cooking process. Look for a sturdy spatula that can handle the weight of your sprouts without bending or breaking.
Oven
Finally, you’ll need an oven to roast your Brussels sprouts. Preheat your oven to 400°F before you begin prepping your sprouts.
Preparation Steps
Preparation of Brussels Sprouts
To start with, you need to clean your Brussels sprouts. Rinse them under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel. Next, trim off the brown ends of the sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged leaves.
Once you have cleaned and trimmed the Brussels sprouts, cut them in half lengthwise. This will help them cook evenly and also give them a nice caramelized surface.
Seasoning and Mixing
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil. Make sure all the sprouts are coated evenly. You can also add some salt and black pepper to taste. If you like, you can add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
Mix all the ingredients together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated. You can use your hands or a spoon to mix them.
Roasting Process
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they are not too crowded, or they will steam instead of roast.
Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized. You can check their doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of a sprout. If it goes in easily, they are done.
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot as a delicious side dish or snack.
Serving Suggestions
1. As a side dish
Roasted Brussels sprouts make a great side dish for a variety of meals. They pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared salmon. You can also serve them alongside other roasted vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips.
2. In a salad
Roasted Brussels sprouts can add a hearty and flavorful element to a salad. Try tossing them with mixed greens, sliced apples, and a tangy vinaigrette. You can also add some toasted nuts or crumbled cheese for extra texture and flavor.
3. With pasta
Roasted Brussels sprouts can be a tasty addition to pasta dishes. Try tossing them with cooked pasta, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a simple and satisfying meal. You can also add some cooked bacon or pancetta for a salty and savory twist.
4. On a pizza
Roasted Brussels sprouts can be a surprising and delicious pizza topping. Try adding them to a pizza with caramelized onions, goat cheese, and a balsamic glaze. You can also add some roasted garlic or mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
Variations
Vegan Version
For a vegan version of this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe, simply omit the butter and use a vegan butter substitute or olive oil instead. You can also sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor.
Another option is to add some roasted nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for some added texture and protein. You can also experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika or cumin, to give it a unique flavor.
Spicy Version
If you like your food with a little kick, try making a spicy version of this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe. Simply add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix before roasting.
You can also add some chopped jalapeno peppers or sriracha sauce for an extra burst of heat. For a milder version, you can use sweet paprika instead of smoked paprika.
Remember to adjust the amount of spice to your personal taste. Too much spice can overpower the flavor of the Brussels sprouts, so start with a small amount and add more if needed.
That’s it for the variations! Feel free to experiment and find your own unique twist on this delicious roasted Brussels sprouts recipe.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to switch up your side dish game, roasted Brussels sprouts are a great option. They pair well with a variety of main dishes and can be customized to your liking. Try adding different seasonings or toppings to make them your own.
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a tasty and nutritious addition to any meal. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!