Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a delightful combination of sweetness and savory richness, making them an ideal side dish for fall or winter meals. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, these roasted sprouts will impress your guests with their crispy texture and vibrant flavor. Perfectly glazed in honey and balsamic vinegar, they stand out as a simple yet sophisticated addition to any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, brussels sprouts are a healthy choice for any meal.
- Versatile Side Dish: These sprouts pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options.
- Crispy Texture: Roasting gives these brussels sprouts a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish.
- Sweet and Savory Balance: The honey and balsamic vinegar create a delicious glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the sprouts.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting, gather your essential kitchen tools for seamless cooking. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Grater
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space for roasting the brussels sprouts evenly, ensuring they get crispy.
- Small saucepan: Ideal for making the balsamic sauce, allowing for easy stirring and combining of ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
- 1 lb brussels sprouts, stems removed
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Balsamic Sauce
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
How to Make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help achieve that perfect crispy texture on the brussels sprouts.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
- Slice the brussels sprouts in half.
- Place them on a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle with avocado oil.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet.
Step 3: Roast
Roast the brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Step 4: Make the Balsamic Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic.
- Use a whisk to mix everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly; it will thicken more as it cools.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the brussels sprouts are done roasting, transfer them to a serving dish. Toss with the balsamic sauce until well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts!
How to Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts can elevate any meal with their sweet and savory profile. Here are some delicious ideas for serving them alongside your favorite dishes.
Pair with Proteins
- Roasted Chicken: The crispy texture of the brussels sprouts complements the juicy, tender chicken perfectly.
- Pork Chops: Sweet and tangy flavors of the sprouts enhance the savory taste of grilled or pan-seared pork chops.
- Grilled Salmon: The rich flavor of salmon pairs wonderfully with the honey balsamic glaze on the sprouts.
Add to Salads
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss roasted brussels sprouts into a fresh greens salad for a delightful crunch.
- Quinoa Salad: Combine with quinoa, nuts, and cranberries for a nutritious side that boasts texture and flavor.
Serve as an Appetizer
- Brussels Sprout Skewers: Thread roasted sprouts onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and serve as bite-sized appetizers.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve them with a yogurt or ranch dip for a unique starter option at parties.
How to Perfect Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
For the best Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, follow these simple tips to enhance their flavor and texture.
- Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select bright green, firm sprouts for optimal taste. Avoid any that are yellowing or wilted.
- Cut Evenly: Halve all sprouts uniformly to ensure they roast evenly, achieving consistent crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spread sprouts out in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation and browning.
- Use High-Quality Honey: Opt for raw or artisanal honey to maximize sweetness and depth of flavor in your sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak salt, pepper, or vinegar amounts based on your personal preference for balance.
- Serve Immediately After Roasting: Enjoy the brussels sprouts while they are still warm for maximum crispiness!
Best Side Dishes for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting complement.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes beautifully with the honey balsamic sauce.
- Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf adds texture and earthiness, making it an excellent pairing.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil offer a fresh contrast to the richness of the brussels sprouts.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a vibrant contrast that enhances both flavors during holiday meals.
- Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy cauliflower gratin creates a decadent side that balances the lightness of the brussels sprouts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts to perfection.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature before roasting.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many sprouts on the baking sheet can cause them to steam instead of roast. Leave space between each sprout for optimal crispiness.
- Skipping the Toss: Not tossing the sprouts with oil and seasonings means uneven flavor. Make sure every sprout is coated for a balanced taste.
- Ignoring Doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Check for that golden brown color and crispy texture to know they’re done.
- Not Making Enough Sauce: A small amount of sauce may leave your sprouts underwhelming. Adjust the recipe if you prefer more glaze for a bolder flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Place cooled brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and roast for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil, and stir until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are roasted sprouts glazed with a sweet and tangy honey balsamic sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
How do I make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts crispy?
To achieve crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, ensure they are spread out on the baking sheet and not overcrowded during roasting.
Can I customize my Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
Absolutely! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch or sprinkle feta cheese on top for added flavor.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftover Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Are these brussels sprouts suitable for meal prep?
Yes! These brussels sprouts are great for meal prep as they are easy to store and reheat well while retaining their flavor.
Final Thoughts
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit into any meal. Their sweet and savory profile makes them an excellent side dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or pair them with various main dishes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a burst of flavor!
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a deliciously easy side dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Roasting the brussels sprouts enhances their natural richness while the honey balsamic glaze gives them a delightful caramelized finish. Ideal for any fall or winter gathering, this dish not only adds vibrant color to your table but also pleases the palate with its crispy texture and robust taste. Whether you’re serving them alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian feast, these glazed brussels sprouts are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb brussels sprouts
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic (grated)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Halve the brussels sprouts and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with avocado oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
- Arrange the sprouts cut side down on the sheet and roast for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic. Whisk together and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Once the sprouts are roasted, transfer them to a serving dish and toss with the balsamic sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
