Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Flavorful Veggie Dish

Looking to elevate your vegetable game? Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts offer a tasty twist that will impress anyone at your table. With simple ingredients like balsamic vinegar, honey, and toasted nuts, these sprouts transform into a flavorful dish. I’ll guide you through each step, so you can savor every bite. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Dive in to learn how to make this delicious side dish today.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– Brussels sprouts
– Balsamic vinegar
– Honey or maple syrup
– Olive oil
– Pecans or walnuts
– Thyme
Seasoning
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Optional: Parmesan cheese
Preparation Tools
– Baking sheet
– Mixing bowl
– Saucepan
– Skillet
When I make balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts, I focus on fresh and tasty ingredients. First, I grab 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. I make sure they are trimmed and halved for even cooking. Next, I measure out 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. This sweet and tangy mix gives the sprouts a rich flavor.
I also use 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil to help the sprouts roast perfectly. For that crunchy texture, I add 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts. Finally, I sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves for a hint of earthiness.
For seasoning, I keep it simple. A generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper brings out the flavors. If I want to make it even more special, I optionally add freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
To cook these delicious sprouts, I need a few tools. A baking sheet helps me roast them evenly. I use a mixing bowl to toss the sprouts with oil and seasoning. A saucepan is handy for making the balsamic glaze. Finally, a skillet lets me toast the nuts to perfection.
This recipe is all about flavor and fun, and you can find the full recipe to enjoy this dish at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
– Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
Roasting the Brussels Sprouts
– Toss with olive oil and seasoning.
– Arrange on the baking sheet with cut sides down.
– Roast for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway for even cooking.
Making the Balsamic Glaze
– Combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a saucepan.
– Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
– Set aside to cool.
Toasting the Nuts
– Heat a skillet over medium heat.
– Toast pecans or walnuts until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
– Drizzle balsamic glaze over roasted sprouts.
– Toss to coat evenly.
Finishing Touches
– Add herbs and toasted nuts on top.
– Optional: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
You can find the full recipe above. This dish pairs well with many main courses. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Roasting
To get those lovely caramelized Brussels sprouts, start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps the sprouts brown nicely. When you toss them halfway through cooking, it ensures they cook evenly. Spread them out on the baking sheet, cut side down. This way, they can crisp up beautifully.
Balsamic Glaze Variations
You can switch up the sweetness in the glaze. Try using maple syrup instead of honey for a different taste. If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer it longer on low heat. This will give you that perfect syrupy texture that clings to the sprouts.
Nut Alternatives
If you want to try other nuts, almonds or hazelnuts work well too. You can also use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. They add a nice crunch and flavor without the nuts.
For more details, check out the Full Recipe!
Variations
Flavor Additions
You can make Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts even better with some easy tweaks. Adding minced garlic or chopped shallots gives a rich, savory flavor. Just toss them in with the sprouts before roasting. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This will add a spicy kick and balance the sweetness of the glaze.
Dietary Preferences
These Brussels sprouts fit many diets. They are naturally vegan, but you can easily swap honey for maple syrup for a fully vegan dish. If you need it gluten-free, this recipe is already safe. Just ensure your balsamic vinegar is gluten-free. You can enjoy this dish without worries.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, these Brussels sprouts shine as a side dish. They pair well with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty grain bowl. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the sprouts on a colorful plate. Sprinkle fresh herbs or additional nuts on top for a lovely touch. For more creative ideas, check the Full Recipe for additional serving tips.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This method helps maintain their flavor and texture. Place the sprouts in the fridge right after cooling. They last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy them later, make sure to keep them sealed well.
Reheating Tips
When it is time to reheat, the oven is best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them crispy. You can also use a microwave, but they may lose some texture. If you microwave, heat in short bursts and stir them gently.
Freezing Options
Yes, you can freeze Brussels sprouts! However, it is best to freeze them before cooking. To freeze, wash and trim the sprouts, then blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. After that, place them in ice water to stop cooking. Drain and dry, then pack them in freezer bags. They can last up to 6 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
FAQs
What can I serve with Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts?
You can enjoy Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts with many main dishes. Here are some great options:
– Grilled chicken or turkey
– Roasted pork tenderloin
– Salmon or other fish
– Quinoa or couscous
– A hearty grain salad
These pairings create a balanced meal that is both tasty and filling.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Here are some tips:
– Thaw them before cooking.
– Drain any excess water to avoid sogginess.
– Roasting time may be a bit longer.
– Fresh sprouts often taste better, but frozen can work in a pinch.
How do I make the glaze thicker?
To thicken your balsamic glaze, try these techniques:
– Simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.
– Add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.
– Stir in a small amount of honey for added thickness.
These methods give you a rich glaze that clings to the sprouts.
Are Brussels sprouts healthy?
Brussels sprouts are very healthy! Here’s why:
– Low in calories
– High in fiber
– Packed with vitamins C and K
– Contains antioxidants
Eating Brussels sprouts can help boost your immune system and improve digestion. Enjoy them guilt-free!
In this post, we covered how to make delicious balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts. We discussed key ingredients like Brussels sprouts, olive oil, and nuts. You learned step-by-step instructions from roasting to glazing. We also shared tips for perfecting your dish and variations to customize it.
Remember, cooking is about experimenting and enjoying the flavors. Try adding your twist to make this recipe your own. Enjoy these tasty sprouts as a side or a main event!
