Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Bring a burst of flavor to your table with these Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. This delightful side dish combines the sweet richness of honey with the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar, creating a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the crispy roasted sprouts. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to impress your family and guests alike. With their vibrant color and irresistible crunch, these Brussels sprouts are not just a side; they’re the star of the meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweetness of honey perfectly balances with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, making each bite irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
- Versatile Side Dish: These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts pair well with many main courses, from roasted meats to hearty salads.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and fiber, this dish is a great way to enjoy vegetables without sacrificing flavor.
- Impressive Presentation: Their vibrant color and glossy glaze make these sprouts visually appealing on any table.
Tools and Preparation
To create these Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and ensures perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Grater
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space for even roasting, ensuring that all sprouts get crispy edges.
- Small saucepan: Ideal for making the balsamic glaze without taking up too much space on your stove.
- Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly in the saucepan, creating a uniform glaze.
- Grater: Quickly grates garlic for flavor without large chunks, ensuring an even taste throughout.
Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
- 1 lb brussels sprouts (stems removed)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Glaze
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic (grated)
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help crisp up the Brussels sprouts while roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
- Halve the Brussels sprouts and place them on a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle with avocado oil, then season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Toss everything to coat evenly.
Step 3: Roast the Sprouts
Arrange the sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Make the Balsamic Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic.
- Whisk together until combined.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once roasted, transfer sprouts to a serving dish. Toss them with the balsamic sauce before serving warm.
Enjoy your delicious Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts as a stunning side dish!
How to Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Serving Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts can elevate any meal, making it a delightful treat for your taste buds. These roasted sprouts pair well with various dishes and can be garnished or served in creative ways.
As a Standalone Side
- Serve warm: Enjoy the Brussels sprouts fresh out of the oven for maximum crispiness.
- Garnish with herbs: Add fresh parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Pairing with Proteins
- With grilled chicken: The sweetness of the sprouts complements the savory taste of grilled chicken perfectly.
- Alongside roasted beef: The tangy glaze enhances rich flavors, making it an ideal companion to beef dishes.
In Salads
- Tossed in mixed greens: Create a vibrant salad by mixing these sprouts with fresh greens, nuts, and a light dressing.
- With quinoa: Combine with cooked quinoa for a hearty grain bowl that’s nutritious and filling.
For Meal Prep
- As part of meal prep containers: Portion them into containers with other sides for quick and easy lunches throughout the week.
- Reheat easily: They maintain their flavor and texture even after reheating, making them perfect for leftovers.
How to Perfect Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Perfecting this recipe is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts turn out amazing every time.
- Choose fresh sprouts: Select firm, bright green Brussels sprouts without yellow leaves for the best flavor.
- Cut evenly: Halve each sprout uniformly to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the sprouts out on the baking sheet to allow them to roast instead of steam.
- Adjust roasting time: Keep an eye on them; oven temperatures may vary, so adjust roasting time as needed for optimal crispiness.
Best Side Dishes for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
These Brussels sprouts are a versatile side that pairs well with many dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, they make a comforting side that balances the tanginess of the sprouts.
- Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad adds texture and pairs well with the glaze from the Brussels sprouts.
- Roasted Chicken Thighs: Juicy chicken thighs complement the sweetness of the honey balsamic sauce beautifully.
- Grilled Salmon: The richness of salmon provides a nice contrast to the freshness of roasted sprouts.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a delightful crunch and sweetness that harmonizes with the dish.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent base for serving alongside Brussels sprouts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that could affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven before roasting the Brussels sprouts. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desirable crispiness.
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Overcrowding the Pan: Avoid placing too many Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soggy sprouts.
-
Inconsistent Cutting: Make sure to halve the Brussels sprouts evenly. Uneven sizes can cause some pieces to cook faster than others, leading to an inconsistent texture.
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Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t skip the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances flavors. Make sure to sprinkle it generously before roasting.
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Ignoring the Glaze Timing: Add the balsamic glaze after roasting for the best flavor infusion. Applying it too early can result in burnt sauce and bitter taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Allow the sprouts to cool completely before freezing.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Sauté them in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water or oil if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts:
How Can I Customize Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
You can easily customize this dish by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, frozen Brussels sprouts can be used, though they may need slightly longer cooking time compared to fresh ones.
What Are Some Good Pairings with Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
These sprouts pair well with roasted meats like chicken or pork but can also be added to salads for extra flavor and texture.
How Do I Make The Best Honey Balsamic Glaze?
To make an amazing glaze, simmer equal parts honey and balsamic vinegar over medium heat until thickened. Add grated garlic for extra flavor!
Final Thoughts
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts offer a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that elevate any meal. Their versatility makes them perfect alongside various main dishes or even as part of a salad. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste!
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Bring vibrant flavor to your dinner table with Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, a delightful side dish that marries the sweetness of honey with tangy balsamic vinegar. This quick and easy recipe transforms simple Brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering treat that can elevate any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions, these crispy roasted sprouts are not just a side; they’re the star of the show! Their appealing gloss and crunch will impress family and guests alike, making every bite a memorable experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts (stems removed)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic (grated)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Halve the Brussels sprouts and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet and roast for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
- Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic. Whisk together and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Once roasted, transfer the sprouts to a serving dish and toss with the balsamic glaze before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 120g
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
