Why not enjoy a flavorful side dish that elevates your meals? Honey balsamic Brussels sprouts bring a delightful sweetness to this nutritious vegetable, creating a perfect balance that enhances any dinner. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at special gatherings, this dish steals the show with minimal effort.
Why We Love This Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts often get a bad reputation, but when prepared right, they shine as a star ingredient. The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a glaze that transforms the naturally nutty flavor of the sprouts into something truly irresistible. This dish offers a perfect harmony of sweet and tangy that pleases the palate. Roasting the Brussels sprouts adds a crispy texture, making every bite satisfying. It’s a healthy side that pairs well with various mains, from chicken to vegetarian dishes. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for both seasoned cooks and beginners.
Ingredients for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds, for optional crunch)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Trim the stem ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Cut them in half through the stem.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If you’re using garlic, add it to the mixture.
- Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in the bowl with the glaze until they’re evenly coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down for maximum caramelization.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown.
- If you’re adding nuts for extra crunch, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
The best way to serve your honey balsamic Brussels sprouts is right from the oven while they are still warm. Their sweet and tangy flavors make them a perfect accompaniment to many dishes. You can serve them alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a hearty grain bowl with quinoa or farro. For an elegant touch, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the top just before serving. This extra layer of flavor adds a creamy contrast that complements the roasted sprouts beautifully. Garnishing with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, also enhances the visual appeal and adds freshness. Whether you’re preparing a casual dinner or a festive feast, these roasted Brussels sprouts will delight your guests and elevate your meal.
Expert Tips for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
To make the most of your honey balsamic Brussels sprouts, keep these expert tips in mind. First, ensure you select fresh Brussels sprouts, looking for ones that are compact and vibrant green. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender, making them ideal for roasting. When cutting the sprouts, try to keep them uniform in size for even cooking. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this can cause steaming rather than roasting, resulting in less crispy sprouts. During roasting, you may adjust the oven temperature to achieve your preferred level of caramelization. If you love a richer flavor, consider adding some shallots or onions to the baking sheet for an extra layer of sweetness. Lastly, don’t shy away from experimenting with flavored oils or additional spices to make the glaze uniquely yours.
How to Store Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Storing honey balsamic Brussels sprouts properly can help retain their flavors and crispness. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, aim for a method that retains their texture, such as tossing them back into the oven or using an air fryer. This way, they will retain some of their original crispiness. You can also enjoy them cold as part of a salad or a grain bowl. Just be sure to add any additional toppings after reheating to keep everything fresh and delicious.
Variations of Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Once you master the basic recipe, feel free to explore fun variations. For a spicy kick, you might add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze. If you prefer a different sweetener, try maple syrup instead of honey. Consider adding chopped apples or pears during the roasting process for a fruity twist. If you enjoy a zestier flavor, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish beautifully. You could also incorporate other vegetables, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, to create a more colorful and hearty side dish. For a smoky flavor, toss in some smoked paprika or crispy fried onions as a topping before serving. Each of these variations allows you to customize your dish while maintaining the core elements of the original recipe.
FAQ about Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
What can I serve with honey balsamic Brussels sprouts?
Honey balsamic Brussels sprouts pair well with chicken, fish, or grains like quinoa. You can also serve them with roasted vegetables for a satisfying vegan meal.
Can I make honey balsamic Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead. Roast the Brussels sprouts, store them in the fridge, and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
What makes honey balsamic Brussels sprouts sweet?
The sweetness comes from the honey you add to the balsamic vinegar. Together, they create a delicious glaze.
Are honey balsamic Brussels sprouts healthy?
Yes, Brussels sprouts are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The honey adds a small amount of sugar, but the dish remains a healthy choice.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Fresh Brussels sprouts deliver the best flavor and texture, but if frozen Brussels sprouts are all you have, they can work as long as you thaw and drain them before cooking.
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts Look for compact and vibrant green sprouts.
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey Can substitute maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional) Adds extra flavor.
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds, for optional crunch) Add in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Trim the stem ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Cut them in half through the stem.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If using garlic, add it to the mixture.
Cooking
- Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in the bowl with the glaze until they are evenly coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown.
- Add nuts during the last 5 minutes of roasting if using.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
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