Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delightful side dish testament to how simple preparation can yield incredible results. Brussels sprouts, with their bright green heads and famed ties to the cabbage family, make them a rich source of vitamin C, providing nutritious support to your overall health.

Let's dive into the art of roasting Brussels sprouts, exploring variations, flavors, and even how to deal with leftover magic.

Ingredients

Here's a simple roasted Brussels sprouts version that will bring a crispy and healthy delight to your plate:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts, cleaned and halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (220°C). Prepare your baking sheet by adding a layer of parchment paper. Trim the end of each Brussels sprout, remove any brown or yellow leaves, and then slice in half.

Combine cleaned Brussels sprouts, olive oil, Kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Toss until all sprouts are evenly coated.

Arrange sprouts on the baking sheet, placing them cut side down. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes or until the outer leaves are crispy and browned, adjusting time for smaller sprouts.

Remove from the oven and enjoy a fresh and tasty side dish!

The Star of the Show: Olive Oil

Olive oil is the primary ingredient for giving roasted Brussels sprouts their crispy, golden-brown exterior, and tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior. The fat in the olive oil also helps temper any bitterness you may associate with Brussels sprouts and releases a wonderful, earthy flavor.

Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for impeccable taste and texture for best results.

Variations: Spices, Balsamic Vinegar, and Bacon

Roasted Brussels sprouts can be enjoyed with various seasonings and creative twists. Here are some ideas to fire up this comforting side dish:

• Drizzle with balsamic vinegar: Tossing the sprouts in balsamic vinegar adds a tangy and sweet flavor once roasted. Serve them sprinkled with crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese for added decadence.
• Add spices: Paprika, onion powder, or garlic powder can enhance the taste and add depth to the simple recipe. Adjust these seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
• Bacon delight: For a more indulgent touch, roast the Brussels sprouts with crumbled bacon for an enriched flavor profile and a hint of smokiness. Bacon and Brussels sprouts create a perfect harmony that is simply irresistible.

Experiment with various flavors and seasonings that complement your main dish and hit your taste buds with a delicious twist.

Vegetable Companions: Cauliflower, Broccoli, and Red Onion

Roasted Brussels sprouts are versatile and blend well with other vegetables to create a medley of deliciousness. Below are some examples of veggie mixes to spice up your side dish game:

• Cauliflower: Combining Brussels sprouts and cauliflower makes for a delicious roast, with both vegetables taking on that beautiful golden-brown hue and crunch. Add parmesan cheese into the mix for a cheesy delight.
• Broccoli: Brussels sprouts and broccoli combine to create a healthy, flavorful, visually appealing side dish.
• Red Onion: Mix Brussels sprouts with chunks of red onion and roast, following the same basic recipe. The red onion gives your plate additional flavor and a splash of color.

Boost The Health Quotient: Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest, and Nutritional Yeast

Adding a squeeze of lemon juice and some lemon zest when roasting your Brussels sprouts will brighten the dish and boost your vitamin C levels. Nutritional yeast can also impart a cheesy flavor and extra vitamins, minerals, and protein.

While Brussels sprouts may be small, their nutrition information is powerful. Rich in fiber, protein, Vitamin C, potassium, and calcium, they make for a fantastic and healthful side dish with an incredible taste. By including them in your meal plan, you also deliver a low-calorie, low-sodium, and low-carbohydrate choice.

Make Ahead Brussels Sprouts and Storing Leftovers

Remember to ensure you've made enough roasted Brussels sprouts or have some unroasted leftovers. You can store these little green gems in:

• The refrigerator: Store them in an airtight container for 2-3 days after roasting.
• The freezer: Line a ziplock bag with parchment paper to keep roasted Brussels sprouts in your freezer for a quick, healthy side dish. They will last up to 3 months.

When reheating, toss them on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and bake in a preheated oven (350°F/180°C) until they are warmed through and the exterior turns crispy again.

Pan of Color: Oven Rack Positioning

To enhance the colors and crispiness of your roasted Brussels sprouts, position your oven rack in the middle or upper third of the oven. The high heat helps the Brussels sprouts achieve that desirable outer crispiness while the insides remain tender.

Experiment with different vegetables, seasonings, and flavors to create an eye-catching and tasty medley. Adding different types of vegetables or sprinkling paprika on top will enhance the visual appeal, turning your pan of Brussels sprouts into an Instagram-worthy side dish.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A Versatile Side Dish

Roasted Brussels sprouts can be combined with various recipes. Pair them with roasted chicken, turkey, or your favorite Thanksgiving meal. Enhance a vegetarian or vegan dish with roasted Brussels sprouts as a fresh, flavorful side option. Enjoy them in salads, pasta, and many other dishes.