Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are the perfect balance between sweet and salty. They’re crispy, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare! Ideal for fall or winter gatherings, this dish shines as a side for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, these Brussels sprouts will impress your guests and family with their delightful taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Balanced Flavors: The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a unique sweet and tangy taste that complements the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these sprouts with chicken, beef, or turkey for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Healthful Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, Brussels sprouts are low in calories but high in fiber and vitamins.
• Crispy Texture: Roasting at high heat ensures these sprouts come out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• baking sheet
• saucepan
• whisk
• cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet allows for even roasting of the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they get that delightful crispy texture.
• Saucepan: A good saucepan is essential for making the balsamic sauce without any spills or messes.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps to combine ingredients smoothly, preventing clumps in your sauce.

Ingredients

These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are the perfect balance between sweet and salty. They’re crispy, flavorful, and so simple! They make a great fall or winter side dish for any occasion.

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

How to Make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). This high temperature is key to achieving crispy Brussels sprouts.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Slice the brussels sprouts in half and add them to a large baking sheet.
2. Drizzle them with avocado oil.
3. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Toss gently to coat all sides evenly.
5. Lay them cut side down on the baking sheet.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Roast in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 4: Make the Balsamic Sauce

1. While the brussels sprouts are roasting, set a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add extra virgin olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic into the pan.
3. Use a whisk to mix everything together thoroughly.
4. Simmer on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes; be mindful as it may rise quickly when stirred.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Remove from heat and let it sit; it will thicken as it cools.
2. Once roasted, take out the brussels sprouts from the oven.
3. Toss them with the balsamic sauce until evenly coated.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are sure to become a favorite side dish that you’ll want to make again and again!

How to Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not just delicious on their own but also pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions that elevate their flavor and make for a delightful meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Serve these brussels sprouts alongside grilled chicken breast for a balanced meal. The sweetness of the sprouts complements the savory taste of the chicken.

On a Salad

• Toss roasted Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts into a mixed greens salad. Add nuts and dried fruit for an extra crunch and sweetness that pairs well with the balsamic flavor.

As a Topping

• Use them as a topping on pizza or flatbreads. The roasted sprouts add texture and flavor, making your dish unique and satisfying.

With Quinoa

• Pair them with fluffy quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option. The nuttiness of quinoa balances the sweetness of the honey and balsamic sauce.

In Grain Bowls

• Add these sprouts to grain bowls filled with brown rice or farro, along with avocado and chickpeas for a nutritious meal that’s both filling and flavorful.

How to Perfect Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

To achieve perfectly roasted Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, consider these helpful tips that will enhance their crispiness and flavor.

• Choose fresh sprouts: Look for firm, bright green brussels sprouts without any yellow leaves. Freshness impacts taste significantly.

• Cut evenly: Halve your brussels sprouts so they cook evenly. Uniform sizes help ensure all pieces roast to perfection.

• Don’t overcrowd: Spread the sprouts out in a single layer on your baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which affects crispiness.

• Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on the roasting time, as smaller sprouts may cook faster than larger ones. Aim for golden brown edges for optimal flavor.

• Use high-quality balsamic vinegar: A good balsamic vinegar adds depth to the sauce. Opt for one that’s thick and rich in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These brussels sprouts shine as a side dish but also complement other sides beautifully. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the honey-balsamic glaze, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that contrasts nicely with crispy brussels sprouts.

3. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor from grilled asparagus enhances the overall taste profile, adding variety to your meal.

4. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad tossed with herbs and lemon adds freshness, making it an excellent choice alongside sweet brussels sprouts.

5. Lentil Salad: Nutty lentils provide protein and earthiness, creating a satisfying combination when served with honey balsamic flavors.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer visual appeal and contrast nicely against the deep flavors of the brussels sprouts.

7. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that serves as a great base for drizzling leftover balsamic sauce over your dish, enhancing flavors across the board.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious result every time.

• Skipping the oil: Not using enough oil can lead to dry sprouts. Always drizzle with oil for crispiness.
• Overcrowding the pan: If you pile too many sprouts on the baking sheet, they won’t roast properly. Spread them out in a single layer.
• Ignoring cooking time: Cooking for too long can burn your sprouts. Keep an eye on them to achieve perfect golden-brown edges.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season can make your dish bland. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Using old sprouts: Using wilted or bad brussels sprouts will affect taste and texture. Choose fresh, firm sprouts for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the sprouts to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a splash of olive oil until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?

You can add carrots, sweet potatoes, or even cauliflower for variety! Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts vegan?

Simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a plant-based option.

What dishes pair well with Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

These sprouts complement roasted chicken, grilled steak, or quinoa salads beautifully.

Can I prepare Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and store them uncooked in the fridge a day before roasting.

Final Thoughts

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not only easy to make but also versatile. They serve as an excellent side dish for various meals. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or different spices to suit your taste!