Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic

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Why Make This Recipe

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic is a delightful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts. When roasted, these little green gems turn crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Adding balsamic vinegar gives them a tangy punch that balances the flavors perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a new side dish for dinner, a healthy snack, or even a holiday treat, this recipe is versatile and easy to make.

Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and even protein. Incorporating them into your meals can help improve digestion, support bone health, and boost your immune system. By roasting them with balsamic vinegar, you enhance their flavor while making a dish that is sure to impress anyone you serve.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic

Making Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic is simple and straightforward. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that will please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

Brussel sprouts
Balsamic vinegar
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
Garlic (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help the Brussels sprouts roast quickly and get that wonderful crispy texture.
Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts: Take your Brussels sprouts and cut off the stem end. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Once cleaned, cut each sprout in half. This helps them cook evenly and allows the balsamic glaze to infuse more flavor.
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. If you like garlic, add minced garlic into the mix. The olive oil will help the sprouts roast well, while the balsamic vinegar adds that sweet and tangy flavor.
Spread on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the Brussels sprouts on this sheet in a single layer. Avoid crowding them to ensure they roast and crisp up nicely.
Roast in the oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the Brussels sprouts for about 20-25 minutes. During this time, stir them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and brown on all sides. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Serve: Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven. Serve them warm as a delicious side dish or snack that everyone will love.

How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic

There are many ways to serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic. They make an excellent side dish for any meal, pairing wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as part of a vegetarian spread with grains and other vegetables.

You can also enjoy them on their own, perhaps sprinkled with a little extra balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you want to indulge. Adding toasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can provide a nice crunch. For a more substantial dish, consider mixing them into a quinoa salad, or toss them with pasta for added flavor and nutrition.

Roasted Brussels sprouts can also be served cold in a salad. Chopping them into smaller pieces and combining them with other ingredients, like feta cheese, cranberries, or a simple vinaigrette, can create a delightful cold dish.

How to Store Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic

If you have leftovers of your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic, storing them is easy. Here’s how you can keep them fresh:

Cool Down: Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. This ensures they do not generate steam, which can make them soggy.
Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled Brussels sprouts to an airtight container. If you can, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid them sticking together.
Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they can last for 3-4 days.
Reheating: When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you could use a microwave, but note that this may make them less crispy than when freshly roasted.

Tips to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic come out perfect every time:

Select Fresh Sprouts: Choose firm, bright green Brussels sprouts. Look for ones that have tightly packed leaves and no blemishes. Fresh sprouts will have a better flavor and texture.
Experiment with Spices: While salt and pepper are classic seasonings, you can spice things up a bit. Consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or garlic powder for an extra punch of flavor.
Use Quality Balsamic Vinegar: The type of balsamic vinegar matters. A good quality balsamic vinegar will add a rich flavor. If you want a sweeter taste, seek out a thicker, syrupy kind.
Add Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter profile, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup before roasting. This can help caramelize the sprouts and add a lovely glaze.
Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure to give the Brussels sprouts plenty of space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which means you miss out on that delightful crispiness.

Variation

There are plenty of ways you can mix this recipe up or add your personal touch. Some variations you might consider include:

Add nuts: Toss some almonds or pine nuts in with the Brussels sprouts for a tasty crunch.
Swap the dressing: Instead of balsamic vinegar, you could try lemon juice or a honey mustard dressing for a different flavor.
Cheesy Brussels: In the last few minutes of roasting, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the sprouts for a tasty, gooey addition. Parmesan, feta, or goat cheese work well.
Vegetable Medley: Combine Brussels sprouts with other vegetables, like carrots or sweet potatoes, for a colorful and varied roasted vegetable dish.
Spicy twist: Add chili oil or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! However, be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture. Roasting frozen sprouts may result in a softer texture.

2. How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?
They are done when they are crispy and golden on the outside and fork-tender on the inside. You can check by piercing one with a fork; if it goes through easily, it’s ready.

3. Can I prepare the Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can trim and halve them a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge until you are ready to roast. Just toss them with the olive oil and balsamic right before you roast.

4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe! Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet or roast them in two separate batches to ensure even cooking.

5. Are Brussels sprouts healthy?
Yes, Brussels sprouts are very healthy! They are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants while being low in calories. They are a wonderful addition to a balanced diet.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic are not only simple to make but also allow for a variety of flavors and styles. From their health benefits to flexibility in serving and storage, they serve as the perfect addition to any meal or occasion. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe!