Looking for a delicious way to enjoy Brussels sprouts? These Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts are a tasty side dish that everyone will love. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sweet and tangy flavor that brings out the best in these green gems. Let’s dive into how to make this easy, flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Optional Toppings and Variations
– Crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme)
– Red pepper flakes for spice
For this dish, I love selecting fresh Brussels sprouts. The quality of the sprouts makes a big difference. Trim them well and cut them in half to help them cook evenly. The glaze combines tangy balsamic with sweet honey, creating a tasty balance. Olive oil adds richness while garlic powder gives a subtle punch.
Adding pecans and dried cranberries not only brings texture but also boosts flavor. If you’re feeling extra creative, try crumbling feta cheese on top. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a nice touch of color and taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes will give a nice kick too.
This recipe is super versatile. You can mix and match toppings based on what you like or have on hand. For the full recipe, check out “Sweet & Savory Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts.” Enjoy creating your culinary masterpiece!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping Your Ingredients
Start by trimming the Brussels sprouts. Cut off the stem end. Then, slice each sprout in half. This helps them cook evenly. Next, measure out your ingredients. You need balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Having everything ready makes cooking easy.
Roasting the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for nice roasting. While the oven heats, mix the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss them well to coat. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking. Roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes. They should be tender and caramelized when done.
Making the Balsamic Glaze
While the sprouts roast, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey over medium heat. Stir the mixture often. You want it to thicken slightly. This usually takes around 5 minutes. When it coats the back of a spoon, it’s ready. Set it aside until the Brussels sprouts finish roasting.
Following these steps will lead you to a delicious dish. For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Roasting Process
To get the best results, spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps them roast evenly. If they are too close, they will steam and not crisp up.
Check for doneness after about 20 minutes. You want them tender and caramelized. A nice brown color shows they are ready.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients
Adding nuts and dried fruits can boost flavor. I love using pecans and dried cranberries. They add crunch and sweetness.
For a tangy or spicy kick, try adding a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes. Both are simple ways to change the taste.
Presentation Tips
Serve the Brussels sprouts in a shallow bowl for a nice display. Add a few extra pecans and cranberries on top to make it look fancy.
Drizzle any remaining balsamic glaze over the top just before serving. This adds shine and extra flavor. For the full recipe, check out the Sweet & Savory Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts!
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make a few simple swaps to make this dish healthier. Try using agave syrup instead of honey. Agave is lower on the glycemic index. It gives a sweet taste without spiking your blood sugar.
Air-frying is another great option. It cooks the Brussels sprouts quickly and crisps them up nicely. You will use less oil, which cuts down on fat while keeping the flavor high.
Flavor Variations
Want to switch up the taste? Adding a bit of mustard can create a nice zing. You can also try soy sauce for a savory twist. Both options will change the flavor profile in fun ways.
Experimenting with different types of vinegar can also add new flavors. Try apple cider vinegar for a fruity note or red wine vinegar for a deeper taste. Each choice brings its own unique flair.
Seasonal Variations
You can use seasonal veggies to change things up. Think about adding carrots or sweet potatoes in the fall. In the spring, asparagus pairs well with Brussels sprouts. This keeps your dish fresh and exciting.
Adjust your flavors for different holidays, too. For Thanksgiving, add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. For Christmas, try adding maple syrup for a festive touch. These small changes can make a big impact on how your dish feels.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed cooking steps and ingredient list above.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts fresh, use an airtight container. Glass containers work great. Store them in the fridge. They will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for long. This keeps them safe and tasty.
Reheating Tips
When you are ready to enjoy leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps keep their texture. If you use a microwave, they may get soggy.
Freezing Instructions
Can you freeze balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts? Yes, you can! However, the texture may change after freezing. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container. Use them within 2 to 3 months for the best taste. When you are ready to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven to help regain some texture. Enjoy your balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts anytime!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Brussels sprouts?
Roasting Brussels sprouts typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes. You want them to be tender and caramelized. Look for a nice brown color and a tender bite to know they are fully cooked.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep Brussels sprouts ahead. Trim and halve them a day before. Store them in the fridge. You can also make the balsamic glaze in advance. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts pair well with roasted chicken or grilled salmon. They also go great with quinoa or rice for a healthy meal. Try serving them with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
Balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are a tasty and healthy dish. We covered the key ingredients, simple steps, and helpful tips for perfecting this recipe. Remember, you can add your personal touch with optional toppings or flavor variations. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile dish to suit your taste and season. Lastly, store leftovers properly to enjoy them later. With these tips, you’re set to impress at your next meal. Happy cooking!
![- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved - 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar - 2 tablespoons honey - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 cup pecans, chopped - 1/4 cup dried cranberries - Crumbled feta cheese - Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme) - Red pepper flakes for spice For this dish, I love selecting fresh Brussels sprouts. The quality of the sprouts makes a big difference. Trim them well and cut them in half to help them cook evenly. The glaze combines tangy balsamic with sweet honey, creating a tasty balance. Olive oil adds richness while garlic powder gives a subtle punch. Adding pecans and dried cranberries not only brings texture but also boosts flavor. If you're feeling extra creative, try crumbling feta cheese on top. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a nice touch of color and taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes will give a nice kick too. This recipe is super versatile. You can mix and match toppings based on what you like or have on hand. For the full recipe, check out “Sweet & Savory Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts.” Enjoy creating your culinary masterpiece! Start by trimming the Brussels sprouts. Cut off the stem end. Then, slice each sprout in half. This helps them cook evenly. Next, measure out your ingredients. You need balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Having everything ready makes cooking easy. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for nice roasting. While the oven heats, mix the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss them well to coat. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking. Roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes. They should be tender and caramelized when done. While the sprouts roast, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey over medium heat. Stir the mixture often. You want it to thicken slightly. This usually takes around 5 minutes. When it coats the back of a spoon, it’s ready. Set it aside until the Brussels sprouts finish roasting. Following these steps will lead you to a delicious dish. For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To get the best results, spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps them roast evenly. If they are too close, they will steam and not crisp up. Check for doneness after about 20 minutes. You want them tender and caramelized. A nice brown color shows they are ready. Adding nuts and dried fruits can boost flavor. I love using pecans and dried cranberries. They add crunch and sweetness. For a tangy or spicy kick, try adding a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes. Both are simple ways to change the taste. Serve the Brussels sprouts in a shallow bowl for a nice display. Add a few extra pecans and cranberries on top to make it look fancy. Drizzle any remaining balsamic glaze over the top just before serving. This adds shine and extra flavor. For the full recipe, check out the Sweet & Savory Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts! {{image_2}} You can make a few simple swaps to make this dish healthier. Try using agave syrup instead of honey. Agave is lower on the glycemic index. It gives a sweet taste without spiking your blood sugar. Air-frying is another great option. It cooks the Brussels sprouts quickly and crisps them up nicely. You will use less oil, which cuts down on fat while keeping the flavor high. Want to switch up the taste? Adding a bit of mustard can create a nice zing. You can also try soy sauce for a savory twist. Both options will change the flavor profile in fun ways. Experimenting with different types of vinegar can also add new flavors. Try apple cider vinegar for a fruity note or red wine vinegar for a deeper taste. Each choice brings its own unique flair. You can use seasonal veggies to change things up. Think about adding carrots or sweet potatoes in the fall. In the spring, asparagus pairs well with Brussels sprouts. This keeps your dish fresh and exciting. Adjust your flavors for different holidays, too. For Thanksgiving, add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. For Christmas, try adding maple syrup for a festive touch. These small changes can make a big impact on how your dish feels. For the full recipe, check out the detailed cooking steps and ingredient list above. To keep your balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts fresh, use an airtight container. Glass containers work great. Store them in the fridge. They will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for long. This keeps them safe and tasty. When you are ready to enjoy leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps keep their texture. If you use a microwave, they may get soggy. Can you freeze balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts? Yes, you can! However, the texture may change after freezing. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container. Use them within 2 to 3 months for the best taste. When you are ready to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven to help regain some texture. Enjoy your balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts anytime! Roasting Brussels sprouts typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes. You want them to be tender and caramelized. Look for a nice brown color and a tender bite to know they are fully cooked. Yes, you can prep Brussels sprouts ahead. Trim and halve them a day before. Store them in the fridge. You can also make the balsamic glaze in advance. Just reheat it when you're ready to serve. These Brussels sprouts pair well with roasted chicken or grilled salmon. They also go great with quinoa or rice for a healthy meal. Try serving them with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete dinner. Balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are a tasty and healthy dish. We covered the key ingredients, simple steps, and helpful tips for perfecting this recipe. Remember, you can add your personal touch with optional toppings or flavor variations. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile dish to suit your taste and season. Lastly, store leftovers properly to enjoy them later. With these tips, you're set to impress at your next meal. Happy cooking!](https://cookingwells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/b4e861b2-ddab-4ffa-b521-abb73c8473a9-250x250.webp)