Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, making them an ideal side dish for any gathering. Their crispy texture and rich taste make them a standout choice for fall and winter meals. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or looking for a simple weeknight accompaniment, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a delicious glaze that elevates the natural taste of the brussels sprouts.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Pairing: These sprouts complement various main dishes, from roasted chicken to pork chops, enhancing your meal effortlessly.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with nutrients, brussels sprouts are a great addition to a balanced diet, offering fiber and vitamins.
• Crispy Texture: Roasting at high heat ensures that these sprouts come out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.

Tools and Preparation

To create these scrumptious Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting of the brussels sprouts, providing optimal crispiness.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for making the balsamic sauce without taking up too much space on the stove.
• Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly, ensuring the sauce is well combined.
• Grater: Makes it easy to incorporate garlic into your dish, adding depth of flavor.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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 roast the brussels sprouts perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Slice the brussels sprouts in half and place them on a large baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with avocado oil and season with sea salt and black pepper.
3. Toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
4. 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.

Step 4: Make the Balsamic Sauce

While the brussels sprouts roast:
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic.
2. Use a whisk to mix everything together thoroughly.
3. Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from bubbling over.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly; it will thicken as it cools.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the brussels sprouts are done roasting:
1. Transfer them to a serving dish.
2. Toss with the balsamic sauce until well coated.
3. Serve immediately while hot for maximum flavor!

Enjoy your delicious Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts as a perfect addition to your next meal!

How to Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not only delicious but also versatile. They can complement a variety of main dishes, adding a sweet and savory touch to your meal.

With Roasted Chicken

• Flavor Match: The sweetness of the honey balsamic sauce enhances the savory notes of roasted chicken.
• Presentation: Serve the sprouts alongside sliced chicken for an appealing plate.

As a Side to Pork Chops

• Contrast: The rich flavors of pork chops pair perfectly with the tangy sweetness of the Brussels sprouts.
• Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for added freshness.

In a Salad

• Crunch Factor: Add the roasted sprouts to mixed greens for a crunchy salad option.
• Dressing: Drizzle with extra balsamic vinegar or your favorite dressing for extra flavor.

With Quinoa or Rice

• Healthy Base: Serve the sprouts over a bed of quinoa or rice for a wholesome meal.
• Nutrient Boost: This combination provides both fiber and protein.

As Part of a Holiday Meal

• Festive Touch: These Brussels sprouts make an elegant side dish for any holiday gathering.
• Serving Size: Prepare enough to serve guests alongside turkey or ham.

How to Perfect Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

To achieve the best results when making Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, consider these handy tips.

• Bold Roasting Temperature: Roast at high heat (400°F) for crispy edges and tender centers.
• Bold Seasoning Technique: Make sure to coat the sprouts evenly with oil and seasonings for full flavor.
• Bold Sauce Timing: Prepare the balsamic sauce while the sprouts roast to save time and enhance flavor absorption.
• Bold Cooling Method: Allow the sauce to cool slightly before tossing it with the sprouts to prevent sogginess.
• Bold Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container but consume them within 2-3 days for best texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts stand out on their own, but they can also be paired with other complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, these potatoes balance well with the tangy flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness brings out the honey notes in your dish, creating harmony on your plate.
3. Creamed Spinach: A classic side that adds richness, making it an excellent partner for your Brussels sprouts.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A light option that can soak up any extra sauce from your main dish, keeping things low-carb yet satisfying.
5. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with herbs complements the crispy texture of the roasted sprouts beautifully.
6. Sautéed Green Beans: Crunchy green beans tossed in garlic provide a nice textural contrast alongside your Brussels sprouts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: If you place too many brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, they may steam instead of roast. Spread them out in a single layer for the best results.
• Skipping the Preheating Step: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is hot before placing the sprouts inside for that perfect crispiness.
• Not Using Enough Oil: Insufficient oil can result in dry sprouts. Make sure to coat them well with avocado oil for flavor and texture.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Roasting too long can burn the sprouts, while not enough time can leave them undercooked. Keep an eye on them and check for golden color.
• Forgetting to Toss with Sauce: Skipping the step of tossing cooked sprouts in the balsamic sauce means missing out on that delicious flavor. Ensure you mix them well after roasting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

• Place cooled Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and sauté until heated through, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Vegan?

You can easily make this recipe vegan by replacing honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The flavor will still be delightful!

What Should I Serve with Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

These Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or pork. They also complement holiday meals perfectly as a side dish.

Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?

Yes, frozen Brussels sprouts work too! Just ensure they are thawed and drained before seasoning and roasting for best results.

How Do I Know When My Brussels Sprouts Are Done?

Brussels sprouts are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside but tender on the inside. A fork should easily pierce them.

Final Thoughts

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not just delicious; they are also versatile enough to complement any meal. Feel free to customize with added ingredients like nuts or herbs for extra flavor. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its sweet-savory goodness!

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