Hey Lykkers! If you've ever been hesitant to try Brussels sprouts, you're not alone. Many people remember them as bitter, mushy vegetables from childhood, but that’s not how they should be enjoyed! When roasted properly, Brussels sprouts transform into a crispy, golden delight that pairs well with almost any meal.
Today, we’re going to walk you through a step-by-step recipe for roasting Brussels sprouts to perfection. By the end of this article, you'll be convinced that they are one of the best side dishes to add to your meals!
Ingredients You'll Need
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather the ingredients. Here's what you'll need for the perfect crispy Brussels sprouts:
1 pound of Brussels sprouts (about 20-25 sprouts)
2 tablespoons of olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
Salt (to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Optional: 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (for added tang)
Optional: 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese (for a cheesy finish)
Optional: 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
Optional: A handful of nuts or pepitas (for crunch)
These ingredients will serve 4 people as a side dish, but feel free to adjust the quantities if you’re cooking for more.
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
The first step is preparing the Brussels sprouts. Here’s what you need to do:
Trim the stems: Begin by cutting off the tough, fibrous stem at the bottom of each Brussels sprout.
Peel the outer leaves: If the outer leaves are discolored or damaged, peel them off and discard them.
How-To Roast Brussels Sprouts - Clean Eating Recipe
video by Clean & Delicious
Cut the sprouts: Larger Brussels sprouts should be halved, while smaller ones can be left whole. The goal is to have uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Make sure the cut sides are facing down when placed on the baking sheet to achieve that lovely caramelized effect.
Step 2: Seasoning the Brussels Sprouts
Once the Brussels sprouts are prepped, it's time to season them for roasting:
Toss in olive oil: Place the Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring each sprout is evenly coated. The oil helps them roast to a crispy texture.
Add salt and pepper: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. A pinch of each should be enough, but feel free to adjust to your preference.
Optional additions: For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or some Parmesan cheese for a savory, cheesy twist. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar will give them a slightly tangy finish, perfect for balancing out the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
Step 3: Preparing for Roasting
Once your Brussels sprouts are well-seasoned, it’s time to move on to the baking process:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to getting those crispy, golden edges.
Line the baking sheet: Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent the sprouts from sticking.
Arrange the sprouts: Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet, with the cut sides facing down. This allows the cut edges to brown beautifully while the leaves on the outside crisp up.
Step 4: Roasting the Brussels Sprouts
Now that your sprouts are arranged on the baking sheet, it’s time to roast them:
Bake in the oven: Transfer the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for about 20 to 30 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size of your Brussels sprouts and your oven, so keep an eye on them as they cook.
Check for doneness: After 20 minutes, check to see if the Brussels sprouts are tender on the inside and golden brown on the edges. The outer leaves should be crispy and slightly charred, which is a sign that they’re perfectly roasted.
Shake halfway through: About halfway through the roasting time, give the baking sheet a little shake or use tongs to flip the sprouts around. This ensures that they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your Brussels sprouts are done, it’s time to enjoy them:
Optional toppings: For a little extra flair, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the hot Brussels sprouts right after they come out of the oven. You can also toss in some nuts or pepitas for added crunch.
Serving suggestions: Serve the roasted Brussels sprouts as a side dish with your favorite protein, such as roasted chicken or grilled fish. They also make a great addition to salads, pasta dishes, or even grain bowls like quinoa or farro.
Additional Tips and Variations
Roasted Brussels sprouts are versatile and can be dressed up in many ways. Here are some additional ideas:
Frittata or casserole: Incorporate the roasted Brussels sprouts into a vegetable frittata or breakfast casserole for a satisfying brunch dish.
Roasted vegetable pasta: Toss the sprouts into a hearty pasta dish for added texture and flavor.
Risotto or grain bowls: Pair the sprouts with creamy risotto or serve them on a grain bowl with tahini sauce for a nutritious meal.
Enjoy Your Crispy Brussels Sprouts!
We hope you’re excited to try this easy recipe for crispy roasted Brussels sprouts! By following these simple steps, you can create a side dish that is both delicious and healthy. Whether you keep it simple or add your own twists with seasonings and toppings, these Brussels sprouts will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking, Lykkers – and don’t forget to share your creations with us!
