Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: A Deliciously Tangy Side Dish

Are you looking for a vibrant and flavorful side dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze! This dish combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction, creating a perfect balance that elevates any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, nutritional information, and variations. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

To make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 pound (450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

For the Balsamic Glaze:

• 1 cup (240ml) balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley or thyme
• Toasted nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help the Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and trim the ends. Remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves.
2. Cut each Brussels sprout in half from top to bottom.

Step 3: Season the Brussels Sprouts

1. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until evenly coated.

Step 4: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Make the Balsamic Glaze

1. While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, remove them from the oven and drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top.
2. Toss gently to combine, then transfer to a serving dish.
3. Garnish with crumbled cheese, chopped herbs, or toasted nuts if desired.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that are yellowing or have blemishes.
• Cutting Technique: Halving the Brussels sprouts allows for more surface area to caramelize, enhancing their flavor.
• Batch Cooking: If you’re making a larger batch, consider roasting them in two separate pans to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional information for one serving (approximately 1/2 cup) of Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze:

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 5g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage Advice

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the Brussels sprouts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness.

Variations

• Add Bacon: For a savory twist, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the Brussels sprouts before roasting.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for a spicy version.
• Different Glazes: Experiment with different glazes, such as a maple syrup glaze or a citrus vinaigrette, for a unique flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they may not get as crispy as fresh ones. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting.

How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?

The Brussels sprouts should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can test their tenderness by piercing them with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.

Can I make the balsamic glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the balsamic glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before drizzling over the Brussels sprouts.

Conclusion

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze is a simple yet elegant side dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. With its perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your kitchen.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients and try this delicious recipe today! Don’t forget to share your results and any variations you try in the comments below. Happy cooking!