Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this dish of roasted Brussel sprouts perfection, you'll need a handful of simple ingredients that might already be in your pantry:
- Fresh Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic (optional but recommended)
- Parmesan cheese (for an extra flavor kick)
- Balsamic glaze or vinegar (for a delightful finish)
🔖 Note: Ensure you choose Brussels sprouts that are vibrant green, firm, and tightly closed leaves for the best results.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepping the Brussels Sprouts
- Rinse Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt.
- Trim the base of the sprouts, removing any tough or brown leaves.
- Cut them in half from top to bottom to expose the inner layers for better roasting.
2. Seasoning
- In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, just enough to lightly coat them.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mix well to ensure each sprout is seasoned evenly.
🔖 Note: Olive oil helps in crisping up the outer layers while keeping the insides tender.
3. Roasting Process
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Overcrowding can steam them instead of roasting.
- Roast for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the tray or flipping the sprouts halfway through to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
| Time | Action |
|---|---|
| 0:00 | Place Brussels sprouts in the oven |
| 10:00 | Shake or flip Brussels sprouts for even roasting |
| 20-25:00 | Remove from oven when crispy and golden brown |
🔖 Note: Keep an eye on them after 15 minutes as oven temperatures can vary.
4. Finishing Touches
- After removing from the oven, optionally grate fresh Parmesan over the hot Brussels sprouts.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a splash of balsamic vinegar to add a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Let them sit for a couple of minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Your roasted Brussels sprouts are now ready to be enjoyed, offering a perfect balance of crispiness and a tender heart, with a rich, caramelized flavor that’s hard to resist.
The simplicity of this recipe does not compromise on flavor. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can transform Brussels sprouts from a side dish to the star of your meal. Remember that the key to perfect roasting is not to overcrowd the pan, which could result in steaming rather than roasting.
The roasting process highlights the natural sugars in the Brussels sprouts, caramelizing them into a delightful balance of sweet and savory. The addition of garlic, Parmesan, and a balsamic finish elevates the dish, making it more than just a vegetable accompaniment; it becomes a culinary delight. This method is not only delicious but also versatile; you can experiment with different seasonings or even toss in some bacon or nuts for added texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to ensure my Brussels sprouts get crispy?
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The key to crispy Brussels sprouts is to roast them in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t steam. Also, giving them a shake or a flip halfway through roasting helps achieve an even crispiness.
Can I make these ahead of time?
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Yes, you can roast Brussels sprouts in advance. Just reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Are Brussels sprouts healthy?
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Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients including vitamin C, K, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a very healthy addition to your diet.
