Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts offer a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors with a satisfying crunch. This dish transforms Brussels sprouts from a simple side into a star on your dinner plate. With their vibrant taste and beautiful presentation, these sprouts can elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, they’re sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why We Love This Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
You will love Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts for their incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of honey and balsamic glaze creates a rich, caramelized coating that enhances the natural nuttiness of the sprouts. Roasting them in the oven brings out their best qualities, resulting in crispy, tender pieces that melt in your mouth. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of main courses, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat
- Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and remove any tough outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss well until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- If desired, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the sprouts during the last five minutes of roasting for an extra kick.
- Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Serving Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts is easy and can be done in a few creative ways. You can present them as a simple side dish next to roasted chicken or grilled fish. Their sweetness complements savory flavors beautifully, making them an excellent choice for richer proteins. For a more elegant presentation, serve them on a bed of quinoa or polenta. This adds texture and enhances the dish visually. You can also sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch. Consider garnishing the dish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to bring a pop of color and freshness. These Brussels sprouts can also steal the show at a holiday table, adding a festive touch to your meal.
Expert Tips for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
For the best results with your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, keep a few expert tips in mind. First, ensure that you cut the sprouts evenly to promote even cooking. This prevents some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked. Another tip is to use fresh Brussels sprouts whenever possible for maximum flavor. Look for bright green sprouts that are firm to the touch. If you want extra caramelization, toss the sprouts with a bit of brown sugar or maple syrup along with the honey. To enhance the flavor even more, you can marinate the Brussels sprouts in the honey balsamic mixture for about 30 minutes before roasting. This gives the sprouts time to absorb the delicious dressing. Lastly, make sure your baking sheet is large enough to allow space between the sprouts, which will help them roast rather than steam.
How to Store Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
If you have leftovers, storing Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts is simple. Let the sprouts cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness, or microwave them for a quicker option. If you plan on freezing them, it’s best to freeze them before cooking to retain their texture and flavor. Place the uncooked Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe bag, and they will keep for up to three months. Just remember to increase the cooking time when roasting frozen sprouts.
Variations of Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are versatile and can be modified in many delicious ways. For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper for a bit of heat during the roasting process. If you enjoy cheesy flavors, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the sprouts during the last few minutes of roasting. For a Mediterranean flair, incorporate sliced olives and cherry tomatoes into the mix. You can also play with the balsamic aspect by adding flavored balsamic vinegars, like fig or pomegranate, for an interesting twist. If you love sweetness, consider adding diced apples or pears to the roasted Brussels sprouts, complementing the honey perfectly. For a crunchier texture, mix in some crispy chickpeas or nuts with the sprouts right before serving.
FAQ about Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
What are Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with a mixture of honey and balsamic vinegar, providing a sweet and tangy flavor.
Can I make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and toss them in the honey balsamic mixture ahead of time, then roast them just before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
You can serve these sprouts alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as part of a larger vegetarian meal with grains like quinoa or couscous.
How long do Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, these sprouts can last for up to three days in the refrigerator.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but the texture may differ slightly. Increase the baking time to ensure they cook thoroughly.
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts Look for bright green, firm sprouts.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For roasting.
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar Can use flavored vinegars for variation.
- 1 tablespoon honey Adds sweetness and caramelization.
- Salt to taste Adjust based on preference.
- Pepper to taste Adjust based on preference.
Optional Ingredients
- crushed red pepper flakes For added heat.
- chopped walnuts or pecans Add for extra crunch.
- fresh herbs like thyme or parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and remove any tough outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss well until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
Cooking
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- If desired, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the sprouts during the last five minutes of roasting.
- Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
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