Balsamic Brussel Sprouts

Trust me on this one: oven-roasting turns Brussels sprouts into crispy perfection. Paired with a glaze of balsamic vinegar and honey, they truly become a superstar side dish. The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully, turning each sprout into a delightful burst of flavor. It’s no wonder that this balsamic Brussels sprouts recipe has become a holiday favorite. It often graces the tables at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

Speaking of holidays and dinner parties, this dish is not just a treat to the taste buds but also a wonderful addition to a festive spread. Paired with other incredible sides like Cheesy Baked Asparagus with Prosciutto, Easy Roasted Bombay Potatoes, Greek Gigantes, and Patatas Bravas. So why wait for a special occasion? Give this recipe a go and make any meal feel like a celebration!

Why We Love This Recipe

• You only need a few pantry staples along with fresh Brussel Sprouts.
• It’s packed with nutrients and low in calories.
• Simple preparation and minimal cooking time make it a time-saver, especially on holidays, a party, or any evening dinner.
• This recipe is very versatile and pairs well with various main dishes.
• Balsamic roasted brussel sprouts offer a delightful combination of crispy exterior and tender interior.

Recipe Ingredients

• Brussel Sprouts: Earthy and slightly bitter. Brussels sprouts are the base of this dish and absorb the flavors of the ingredients they’re cooked with.
• Olive Oil: Helps to roast the Brussels sprouts to perfection. Offers a subtle, rich undertone, ensuring the sprouts are crispy and delicious.
• Honey: Brings a natural sweetness that balances the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts. Also helps in caramelizing them.
• Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient introduces a tart and complex flavor. It enriches the dish and complements the sweetness of the honey and earthiness of the Brussels sprouts.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Variations

• Bacon Addition: Enhance the savory depth by adding crispy bacon bits. They will introduce a smoky flavor, complementing the natural taste of Brussels sprouts.
• Vegetable Medley: Combine Brussels sprouts with cauliflower, carrots, and green beans. Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze for a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and savory flavors.
• Nutty Twist: Add pecans or other nuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. It brings an extra layer of sophistication and contrasting textures to the dish.
• Cheese Sprinkle: Grate Parmesan cheese over the roasted Brussels sprouts for a cheesy boost.
• Herbal Aromas: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting. This is to infuse the Brussels sprouts with aromatic, earthy tones.

Step #2: To prepare the Brussels sprouts, trim the stems, and then either halve or quarter the sprouts based on their size to create bite-sized pieces of roughly the same size. Throw away any dirty leaves or any leaves that fall off when trimming the stem.

Step #3: Once the Brussels sprouts are cut, place them on the prepared baking sheet and add the oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss them to ensure even coating.

Step #4: Place the baking sheet in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and cooked to your liking.

Step #5: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the balsamic glaze in a bowl by combining balsamic vinegar and honey. Stir until well mixed.

Step #6: After removing the Brussels sprouts from the oven, drizzle them evenly with the glaze.

Serve and enjoy your Honey Balsamic Brussel Sprouts!

Expert Tips

• Freshness is Key: Opt for fresh Brussels sprouts to ensure a crisp texture. Do not use frozen Brussels sprouts, as they will become a wet mess that won’t crisp up in the oven.
• Uniform Sizing: When cutting the Brussels sprouts, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. This will prevent undercooking some while overcooking others.
• Watch and Taste: Keep an eye on the roasting time. Taste-test to reach your preferred tenderness, as cooking time can vary depending on sprout size.
• Single Layer is Crucial: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on your baking sheet. This is important for even roasting and caramelization. If they’re piled on top of each other, they will steam rather than roast.
• For Extra Crispiness: Place the Brussels sprouts flat side down on the baking sheet before putting them in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Info

Storing your balsamic Brussels sprouts properly is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor. To store, after they’ve cooled to room temperature, place them in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag, then refrigerate. They should remain fresh and tasty for up to 3-4 days.

As for freezing, ensure they’re in a well-sealed container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Remember, for the best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to enjoy your balsamic Brussels sprouts as soon as possible after preparing them.

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