5 Delicious Brussels Sprouts Recipes You Must Try

Brussels sprouts, often unfairly relegated to the sidelines of culinary appreciation, are a delightful treat when prepared with creativity and care. These small, leafy green vegetables pack a punch of nutrition, including significant amounts of vitamins K and C, and fiber, making them a perfect addition to any diet. If you've yet to explore the savory and versatile side of Brussels sprouts, here are five recipes that might just change your mind about these mini cabbages!

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Nothing elevates the humble Brussels sprout like roasting it with garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Here’s how you can make this crowd-pleaser:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Juice of half a lemon
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
  2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  4. Once out of the oven, sprinkle Parmesan over the sprouts and return them to the oven for another 5 minutes.
  5. Drizzle with lemon juice before serving.

🔔 Note: Keep an eye on the sprouts to prevent burning; roasting times may vary depending on your oven.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

The sweet and tangy glaze gives Brussels sprouts a whole new flavor profile. Here's the simple recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Whisk together the oil, vinegar, and honey or sugar. Toss the sprouts in this mixture.
  3. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through to turn the sprouts.
  4. They should be tender with a caramelized glaze when done.

Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad

Who said Caesar salad must be made with romaine? Here’s a fun twist:

• Ingredients:
  • 5 cups shredded Brussels sprouts
  • 1/2 cup croutons
  • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
• Instructions:
  1. Shred the Brussels sprouts using a food processor or finely slice by hand.
  2. Toss with Caesar dressing, ensuring even coating.
  3. Top with croutons and Parmesan before serving.

Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

The classic pairing of bacon with Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness. Here’s how:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon, leaving the fat in the pan.
  2. Add Brussels sprouts to the bacon fat, cut side down, and cook on medium-high heat until browned.
  3. Reduce heat, add garlic, and stir frequently until sprouts are tender.
  4. Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

Spicy Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts

For those who love a little heat with their sweet, this recipe balances both:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they start to brown.
  4. In a bowl, mix honey, sriracha, and soy sauce. Toss the roasted sprouts in this glaze.
  5. Return to oven for 5 more minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Incorporating Brussels sprouts into your culinary repertoire can be both healthy and incredibly satisfying. These recipes showcase the versatility of Brussels sprouts, making them a perfect vegetable for any occasion. From the caramelized, crispy delight of Roasted Garlic Parmesan to the sweet-spicy punch of Honey Glazed, each dish highlights the unique flavors this vegetable can bring to the table. So, whether you're aiming to impress dinner guests or just looking to elevate your weekday meals, these Brussels sprouts recipes offer a delightful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.

Can Brussels sprouts be eaten raw?

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Yes, Brussels sprouts can be eaten raw, particularly when thinly sliced or shredded for salads. They have a mild bitterness when raw, which can be balanced with dressings or other ingredients.

How do I know when Brussels sprouts are cooked through?

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Brussels sprouts are cooked through when they are tender when pierced with a fork. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture, so aim for a tender but still firm result.

Are there vegan versions of these recipes?

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Yes, all the above recipes can be adapted for vegans by replacing non-vegan ingredients like cheese and honey with vegan substitutes or skipping them altogether.

How can I store leftover Brussels sprouts?

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Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or a skillet to retain some crispness.

What are some other flavor pairings for Brussels sprouts?

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Brussels sprouts pair well with flavors like citrus (lemon, orange), nuts (almonds, walnuts), vinegar, soy sauce, mustard, and even fruits like cranberries or apples for a sweet balance.