Do you love tasty veggies? Let’s dive into a dish that turns Brussels sprouts into a crunchy delight! In this recipe for Garlic Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts, I’ll show you how to make these little gems truly shine. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a side that’s packed with flavor. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of garlic, herbs, and balsamic vinegar creates a mouthwatering flavor that elevates the Brussels sprouts to a whole new level.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe involves minimal steps and ingredients, making it a breeze to prepare even on busy weeknights.
- Health Benefits: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and nutrients, providing a healthy side dish that complements any meal.
- Versatile Dish: These roasted Brussels sprouts can be served as a side dish or tossed into salads, making them a versatile addition to your table.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
Brussels sprouts shine in this recipe. They transform into crunchy bites full of flavor. You start with one pound of Brussels sprouts, halved for even cooking. Four cloves of minced garlic add a bold taste. Extra virgin olive oil helps everything roast nicely.
Dried thyme and rosemary bring warmth and depth. A teaspoon of smoked paprika adds a hint of smoke. Balsamic vinegar gives a sweet tang. Salt and black pepper finish the mix. Finally, fresh parsley adds color and freshness when serving.
You only need three tools. A baking sheet helps with roasting. Parchment paper makes clean-up easy. A large mixing bowl is key for tossing the sprouts.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help roast the Brussels sprouts perfectly. To make clean-up easy, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and makes it simple to remove the sprouts later.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with 4 cloves of minced garlic. Add 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Then, pour in 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure every sprout gets coated in the flavorful blend.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet. Arrange them in a single layer, with the cut sides facing down. This position helps them caramelize nicely. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. You want them tender and golden when done.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Roasting
To get the best results, place the cut side of the Brussels sprouts down on the baking sheet. This allows them to caramelize well. When they roast this way, they develop a nice crispy texture. You want those golden edges!
Stir the sprouts halfway through roasting. This helps them brown evenly and prevents burning. It also ensures all sides cook well. A quick stir makes a huge difference in flavor and texture.
Flavor Enhancements
Add a splash of lemon juice after roasting. This brightens the flavor and gives a fresh taste. It pairs well with the garlic and herbs. Just a little can make your dish pop!
Incorporating red pepper flakes is another fun way to spice things up. Just a pinch adds heat and depth. Adjust the amount based on your taste. You can make it as spicy as you like!
Serving Suggestions
These roasted Brussels sprouts work well with many main dishes. They pair nicely with chicken, fish, or even steak. Their rich flavor complements these proteins well.
For sides, consider serving them with mashed potatoes or a light salad. Both options balance the meal and add freshness. You can also try them with quinoa or rice for a wholesome touch. Enjoy discovering what works best for your taste!
Pro Tips
- Choose Fresh Sprouts: Always opt for fresh Brussels sprouts that are bright green and firm to the touch for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the herbs and spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of chili flakes can give it a nice kick!
- Ensure Even Cooking: Make sure the Brussels sprouts are cut into similar sizes to ensure they roast evenly and achieve the perfect golden color.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the roasted Brussels sprouts right after they come out of the oven while they are still hot and crispy.
Variations
Different Flavor Profiles
You can add fun flavors to your Garlic Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts.
- Spicy Garlic Herb Brussels Sprouts: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This gives the sprouts a nice kick. Mix them in with the garlic and herbs for a zesty finish.
- Maple Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Use maple syrup instead of balsamic vinegar. This adds a sweet touch. Coat the Brussels sprouts in maple syrup for a caramelized glaze that balances the savory garlic.
Dietary Adaptations
You can easily adapt this dish for special diets.
- Vegan options: This recipe is already vegan-friendly. Use olive oil and skip any dairy. Enjoy a tasty treat without worry!
- Gluten-free considerations: All the ingredients are gluten-free. You can serve these sprouts with any gluten-free meal. They pair well with meats, grains, or salads.
Seasonal Additions
Mix in seasonal veggies for a twist.
- Seasonal vegetables to mix in: Try adding carrots or sweet potatoes. They roast well and add color. You can also include sliced red onion for a sweet flavor.
- Festive variations: For the holidays, add cranberries or nuts. These add crunch and sweetness. They make the dish look festive and taste amazing!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover roasted Brussels sprouts, first let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. You can enjoy them for up to four days in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
When you are ready to eat your leftovers, reheating is key. The best method is to use an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This helps restore their crunch. You can also use a microwave if you are in a hurry. Heat in short bursts to avoid sogginess.
Freezing Guidance
Yes, you can freeze Brussels sprouts! To freeze, first blanch them in boiling water for two minutes. Then, cool them in ice water. Drain and place them in freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. They will stay good for up to three months. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight or cook directly from frozen.
FAQs
How long do I roast Brussels sprouts?
You typically roast Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes. During this time, they become tender and golden. I recommend stirring them halfway through. This ensures even cooking and helps with browning.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs! Fresh thyme and rosemary work great. Use about three times more fresh herbs than dried. This gives your Brussels sprouts a bright and fresh taste. Just chop them finely and mix them in as you would with dried herbs.
What to do if Brussels sprouts are bitter?
If your Brussels sprouts taste bitter, try a few tricks. First, ensure they are cooked until golden and tender. This reduces bitterness. You can also add a pinch of sugar or drizzle more balsamic vinegar. Both options help balance the flavors and enhance sweetness.
To summarize, we explored how to make delicious roasted Brussels sprouts. You learned about the ingredients, the equipment needed, and the step-by-step roasting process. I shared tips for perfect results and flavor variations to try. Also, we discussed how to store and reheat leftovers, ensuring you enjoy them later. Remember, roasting brings out the best in Brussels sprouts. With these methods, you can create a tasty dish for any meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
