Description
Balsamic brussels sprouts bring Italian-inspired zest to roasted vegetables with caramelized edges and tangy sweetness. Crispy, golden leaves and rich balsamic glaze create an irresistible side dish that makes you crave more green goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454 grams) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- ⅓ cup toasted pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or pomegranate arils
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley leaves
Instructions
- Arrange oven rack in the middle position and heat to 425°F, preparing a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure effortless cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Meticulously halve Brussels sprouts, ensuring each piece is uniform for consistent roasting, and spread them across the prepared baking sheet with deliberate spacing.
- Cascade olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey over the sprouts, using a gentle tossing motion to create an even, glistening coating that will caramelize during roasting.
- Sprinkle sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper across the surface, massaging the seasonings into the Brussels sprouts to enhance their natural flavors.
- Position the sprouts cut-side down, allowing maximum surface contact with the hot baking sheet to develop deep golden-brown edges and crispy texture.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan midway to ensure uniform browning and checking for a rich, caramelized appearance.
- While sprouts are roasting, lightly toast pecans in a dry skillet until fragrant and golden, releasing their nutty essence.
- Once Brussels sprouts are tender and beautifully caramelized, transfer to a serving platter and gently fold in toasted pecans and vibrant cranberries or pomegranate arils.
- Finish by scattering fresh parsley across the top, adding a bright, herbaceous note and visual appeal before serving warm.
Notes
- Perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts come alive with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze that transforms this humble vegetable into a gourmet side dish.
- Cut sprouts in half to maximize crispy edges and ensure even roasting, creating a delightful contrast between crunchy exterior and tender interior.
- Arrange sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet to achieve maximum golden-brown caramelization and develop deep, rich flavor profiles.
- Drizzling honey and balsamic vinegar creates a glossy, complex coating that balances the natural earthiness of the Brussels sprouts with sweet and acidic notes.
- Toasted pecans and cranberries add a luxurious crunch and burst of festive color, elevating this simple vegetable to an elegant and irresistible side dish.
- Fresh parsley brings a bright, herbal finish that cuts through the richness and provides a vibrant visual and flavor contrast to the roasted sprouts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg