5 Best Brussel Sprouts Recipes You Must Try

Brussel sprouts, once relegated to the sidelines of the dinner plate, have made a remarkable comeback in recent years. This tiny, green gem, part of the cruciferous vegetable family, packs a nutritional punch and, when prepared correctly, can delight your taste buds. Whether you're a long-time lover of Brussel sprouts or a curious skeptic, these 5 Best Brussel Sprouts Recipes will show you just how versatile and delicious this vegetable can be. Let's explore how to turn these often misunderstood vegetables into culinary stars.

1. Crispy Roasted Brussel Sprouts

One of the most beloved ways to cook Brussel sprouts is to roast them. This method brings out their natural sweetness and adds a crispy texture that makes them irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussel sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: Parmesan cheese or lemon zest for garnish

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Trim and halve the Brussel sprouts, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the sprouts evenly on a baking sheet, ensuring they don't overlap for crispiness.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are crispy and browned.
5. Optional: After roasting, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or lemon zest for an extra zing.

⭐ Note: For extra crispiness, you can turn on the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

2. Brussel Sprouts with Bacon and Garlic

The combination of Brussel sprouts with bacon and garlic is a match made in culinary heaven, providing a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and gourmet.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussel sprouts
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Balsamic glaze or lemon juice

Steps:

1. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove bacon but keep the fat in the pan.
2. Add minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for a minute or so until fragrant.
3. Add halved Brussel sprouts, stirring to coat in the bacon fat and garlic.
4. Sauté until the sprouts are tender but still have a bite to them, around 10-15 minutes.
5. Return bacon to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or lemon juice for brightness.

🌟 Note: Cooking sprouts cut-side down helps them to caramelize and become sweeter.

3. Honey Sriracha Brussel Sprouts

For those who enjoy a mix of sweet, spicy, and savory, honey Sriracha Brussel sprouts are a must-try. This dish pairs the sharp, earthy flavor of Brussel sprouts with the vibrant kick of Sriracha.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussel sprouts
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Green onions for garnish (optional)

Steps:

1. Steam or boil Brussel sprouts until they are almost tender, then cool slightly.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, Sriracha, and soy sauce. Coat the sprouts in this mixture.
3. Heat a skillet and quickly sear the coated sprouts for a charred effect.
4. Once seared, garnish with sesame seeds and optional green onions.

Here is a simple recipe overview in a table:

4. Shaved Brussel Sprouts Salad with Lemon Dressing

Not every Brussel sprout dish has to be cooked. This fresh and vibrant salad lets the raw sprouts shine through, paired with a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussel sprouts, shaved or finely sliced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan shavings and toasted walnuts for topping

Steps:

1. Shave or thinly slice Brussel sprouts.
2. Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
3. Toss the sprouts with the dressing, letting them marinate for a few minutes.
4. Serve topped with Parmesan shavings and walnuts.

This recipe highlights the use of raw Brussel sprouts, providing a different texture and flavor profile.

5. Parmesan Panko-Crusted Brussel Sprouts

For an indulgent twist, coat Brussel sprouts with Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs before baking. The result is a mouthwatering combination of tender insides and crispy, flavorful crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Dip each sprout in beaten egg, then coat in a mixture of panko and Parmesan.
3. Place on a baking sheet, ensuring sprouts are not touching.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.

This recipe turns Brussel sprouts into a party-friendly appetizer or side dish with a delightful crunch.

Wrapping up our culinary journey, we've explored how versatile Brussel sprouts can be. From crispy roasted delights to sweet and spicy combinations, these recipes demonstrate the vegetable's ability to adapt to various flavors and cooking methods. Brussel sprouts not only provide a burst of nutrition but also can become the star of your meal with the right preparation. Whether you're entertaining guests or just looking for new ways to enjoy your greens, these recipes are your gateway to appreciating Brussel sprouts like never before.

Are Brussel sprouts good for you?

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Yes, Brussel sprouts are excellent for your health! They are rich in vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants, which can aid in heart health, digestion, and cancer prevention.

How do you choose fresh Brussel sprouts?

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Look for sprouts that are firm, bright green, and tightly closed. They should feel heavy for their size, and avoid any with yellow leaves or signs of mold.

Can you freeze Brussel sprouts?

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Yes, Brussel sprouts can be frozen. Blanch them first for about 3-5 minutes, then cool them down in ice water, dry, and store in freezer bags. They can last up to 12 months in the freezer.