If you love the idea of crispy, caramelized vegetables with a zing of tangy sweetness, you are going to fall head over heels for this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe. It takes humble Brussels sprouts to a new level, turning them into a delightful side dish that packs bold flavor and irresistible texture. Whether you’re a Brussels sprouts enthusiast or someone who thought you didn’t like them, this recipe will have you rethinking the way you enjoy this vibrant vegetable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and creating that perfect roasted finish. Let’s dive into what you’ll need, and why.
- Brussels sprouts: Fresh and firm, these little green gems provide that wonderful crunchy texture and earthy flavor that roasts beautifully.
- Olive oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps the sprouts crisp up in the oven.
- Balsamic vinegar: This balsamic is the star that brings a tangy, sweet glaze after roasting, unlocking delicious caramel notes.
- Salt: Simple seasoning that enhances all the flavors and balances the acidity of the vinegar.
How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels sprouts
Start by trimming the tough ends off your Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Then, slice them in half so they roast evenly and develop a rich caramelized surface.
Step 2: Toss with olive oil and salt
Place the halved sprouts in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil, making sure each piece is lightly coated. Sprinkle with salt to season throughout, enhancing the natural flavors as they roast.
Step 3: Roast at 425°F for 30 minutes
Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in a preheated 425°F oven, giving them a shake or stir halfway through to brown all sides beautifully. Patience here is key to achieving that crisp, tender bite.
Step 4: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar
Once roasted and golden, remove the sprouts from the oven and while still warm, drizzle them generously with balsamic vinegar. The heat helps the vinegar cling and infuse the sprouts with its sweet-tangy charm.
How to Serve Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of toasted pine nuts can elevate the flavors and introduce textural contrast, making this simple dish feel extra special.
Side Dishes
These roasted Brussels sprouts are the ideal companion to roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a cozy pasta dish. Their savory and slightly sweet nuances complement a wide range of mains beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this dish over a bed of creamy polenta or mixing in dried cranberries for a pop of color and tartness. Not only tasty, but it also makes your plate look stunning and inviting to your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover roasted Brussels sprouts in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors while keeping the sprouts tender without becoming soggy.
Freezing
While freezing roasted Brussels sprouts is possible, they tend to lose some texture after thawing. For best results, freeze only if you plan to use them in cooked dishes like soups or casseroles where texture matters less.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a hot oven or toaster oven at 400°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them mushy and less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for roasting because they get crispier and caramelize better. Frozen sprouts tend to be more watery, which can affect texture, but if you’re in a pinch, thaw and dry them thoroughly before roasting.
Is balsamic vinegar necessary, or can I substitute it?
Balsamic vinegar adds a unique sweet and tangy flavor that complements the sprouts perfectly, but you can try using red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as substitutes, although the flavor profile will differ slightly.
What if I like my Brussels sprouts more charred?
No problem! Simply extend the roasting time by a few minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don’t burn. The contrast between charred edges and tender insides is delicious.
Can I add other spices or herbs?
Absolutely! A touch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or fresh thyme can add an extra layer of flavor. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Yes, this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and naturally low in carbs. It’s a fantastic side to fit many dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re inspired to give this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those dishes that turns a simple vegetable into a crave-worthy delight. Once you taste that perfect blend of crisp roasted edges and the sweet tang from the balsamic drizzle, you’ll find yourself wanting it alongside everything. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share this gem with your loved ones—they’ll thank you for it!
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Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful side dish featuring crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil, finished with a tangy drizzle of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of salt. Perfectly caramelized with a balance of savory and sweet notes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to roast the Brussels sprouts to a crispy perfection.
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half to allow even roasting and caramelization.
- Toss with Olive Oil and Salt: In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts with the olive oil and salt, tossing until all are evenly coated.
- Roast: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, tossing halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Drizzle with Balsamic Vinegar: Once roasted and crispy, remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and immediately drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Toss gently to coat.
- Serve: Serve warm as a delicious, tangy side dish to complement any main course.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, set the oven rack near the top of the oven.
- Use fresh balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
- Can add freshly ground black pepper or garlic powder before roasting for additional seasoning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
