Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Bring a burst of flavor to your table with these Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. This delightful side dish combines the sweet richness of honey with the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar, creating a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the crispy roasted sprouts. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to impress your family and guests alike. With their vibrant color and irresistible crunch, these Brussels sprouts are not just a side; they’re the star of the meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts as a side dish with meats, in salads, or even as a snack!
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and fiber, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The crispy texture and rich flavor make these Brussels sprouts a favorite among family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, you’ll need some essential tools for preparation. These items will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A large baking sheet allows you to roast the Brussels sprouts evenly, ensuring they get crispy.
• Small saucepan: Using a small saucepan helps in making the balsamic glaze without overcrowding your cooking space.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending the ingredients smoothly when preparing the glaze.
• Grater: A grater makes it easy to prepare garlic quickly, enhancing flavor without much effort.

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 Glaze

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic (grated)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Brussels sprouts roast perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

• Halve the Brussels sprouts and place them on a large baking sheet.
• Drizzle them with avocado oil.
• Season with sea salt and black pepper before tossing to coat evenly.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Arrange the sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet. Roast them for 18–20 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat:
Combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic.
Whisk together until mixed well.
Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once roasted:
Transfer sprouts to a serving dish.
Toss them with the balsamic sauce before serving warm.

Now enjoy your flavorful Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts!

How to Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Serving Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts can elevate any meal, making it both delicious and visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this tasty dish.

With Roasted Chicken

• Pair these sprouts with juicy roasted chicken for a comforting dinner. The sweet balsamic glaze complements the savory flavors of the chicken beautifully.

As a Salad Topping

• Add roasted Brussels sprouts to salads for an unexpected crunch. Their sweetness pairs well with greens and vinaigrettes.

Alongside Grilled Steaks

• Serve alongside grilled steaks for a mouthwatering contrast. The honey and balsamic flavors enhance the richness of the meat.

In Grain Bowls

• Incorporate them into grain bowls, combining with quinoa or farro for a hearty meal. Their flavor adds depth to the bowl.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include these sprouts on a charcuterie board for a unique option. The glaze offers sweetness that balances out salty cured meats.

With Pasta Dishes

• Toss them with pasta dishes, especially those featuring creamy sauces. This adds texture and a flavor boost to your favorite recipes.

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How to Perfect Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

To ensure your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are perfect each time you make them, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select firm and bright green Brussels sprouts for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the sprouts out evenly on the baking sheet to promote crispiness while roasting.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your taste preference or swap it with maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding nuts or cranberries before serving for extra crunch and flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal crunch, serve the sprouts right after tossing them in the glaze.
• Garnish Well: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness, enhancing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that balances well with the sweetness of the sprouts.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the honey glaze, making for a delightful combination.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies offers a refreshing contrast to the rich Brussels sprouts.
4. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add color and crunch, enhancing your plate’s visual appeal.
5. Creamy Coleslaw: The tanginess of coleslaw provides a nice counterpoint to the sweet flavors of the dish.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted corn brings sweetness and is perfect for summer meals alongside Brussels sprouts.
7. Cauliflower Rice: Lightly seasoned cauliflower rice serves as a healthy base that absorbs all flavors well.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and spices add heartiness and nutrition to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: When you place too many Brussels sprouts on a single baking sheet, they can steam instead of roast. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer for even cooking.
• Skipping the Preheating Step: Failing to preheat your oven can affect the roasting process. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before adding your Brussels sprouts.
• Not Using Enough Oil: Insufficient oil will result in dry sprouts. Ensure you drizzle enough avocado oil for proper roasting and flavor enhancement.
• Ignoring the Size of the Halved Sprouts: Cutting Brussels sprouts unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking. Try to cut them all to a similar size for uniform roasting.
• Rushing the Glazing Process: If you don’t let the balsamic mixture simmer long enough, it won’t thicken properly. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes for the perfect glaze.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

• You can freeze cooked Brussels sprouts for up to 2 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the sprouts in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil and sauté for about 5 minutes until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.

How To Make Balsamic Glaze For Brussel Sprouts?

To make balsamic glaze, combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic in a saucepan. Whisk together and simmer until slightly thickened.

Can I Substitute Honey In This Recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute honey with maple syrup if you’re looking for a vegan option without losing flavor.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts pair beautifully with roasted meats or can be added to salads for extra flavor and crunch.

How Do I Know When My Brussels Sprouts Are Done Roasting?

Brussels sprouts are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, which usually takes about 18-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Final Thoughts

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not just a side dish; they bring an exciting burst of flavor that can elevate any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them by adding nuts or serving them alongside different proteins. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite!