Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crispy. With their golden-brown edges and tender centers, these sprouts are coated in a mouthwatering honey balsamic glaze that elevates their natural flavor. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight side or a fancy addition to your holiday meal, this recipe fits the bill. It’s not only delicious but also quick and simple to make, offering a perfect balance of savory garlic and tangy balsamic vinegar, enhanced by the sweetness of honey. Read on to discover how to make this irresistible dish!
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Why Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Stand Out
These Brussels sprouts are a great choice for anyone who loves a sweet and tangy side. What sets this recipe apart is its versatility—it’s just as perfect for a cozy family dinner as it is for a festive holiday spread. The crispy texture of the roasted sprouts combined with the glossy, sticky balsamic-honey sauce creates a unique flavor profile that everyone will love. It’s a side dish that feels both healthy and indulgent, making it a great addition to any meal.
The recipe is also incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, the sprouts themselves are rich in nutrients, making this dish not only tasty but also good for you. You’ll want to make this again and again.
Ingredients for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Here’s what you’ll need for these delicious Brussels sprouts:
• Brussels Sprouts: Essential for this recipe, providing a hearty, earthy base with crispy edges when roasted.
• Avocado Oil: This high-heat oil helps crisp the sprouts without burning.
• Sea Salt: Enhances the flavor of the sprouts and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat to the dish, balancing the tanginess.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Used in the glaze, it adds a rich, savory flavor.
• Honey: The natural sweetness complements the balsamic vinegar and brings out the flavor of the sprouts.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Its sharpness cuts through the richness of the honey and oil, creating a perfect balance.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings an aromatic depth to the dish.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking for substitutions or have dietary preferences, here are some ideas:
• Maple Syrup: For a vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup to maintain the sweetness and sticky texture.
• Avocado Oil: If you don’t have avocado oil, olive oil is a great alternative for roasting the Brussels sprouts.
• Tapioca Starch: If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can add a cornstarch or tapioca starch slurry to the balsamic sauce for a smoother, more syrupy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the Brussels sprouts in half and place them on a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle them with avocado oil and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Lay the Brussels sprouts cut side down for maximum crispiness.
- Roast in the oven for 18-20 minutes until they are golden and crispy on the edges.
- While the sprouts roast, prepare the balsamic glaze.
- In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic.
- Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce thickens, remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, toss them with the balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
To get the crispiest Brussels sprouts, always make sure to roast them cut side down. This method allows the sprouts to caramelize beautifully and develop a golden-brown crust. Additionally, it’s important to toss the sprouts with the honey balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain their crispiness. Once the sprouts are coated in the sauce, they will lose their crunch over time, so it’s best to enjoy them right away.
Pairing Ideas and Variations for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
These Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairings. They’re a perfect addition to holiday meals, especially when served with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and other seasonal vegetables. For a lighter meal, try pairing them with roasted chicken or a simple grain-based salad. You can also switch up the glaze by adding a dash of chili flakes for some heat, or incorporate some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for extra richness.
If you’re looking for a make-ahead option, roast the Brussels sprouts in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh their crispiness.
Health Benefits of Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and may help promote digestive health. Pairing them with a healthy glaze made from honey and balsamic vinegar adds not only flavor but also additional health benefits. Honey contains antioxidants, while balsamic vinegar is known to support heart health and digestion. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious, nutritious side dish that supports overall wellness.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Crispy, Sweet & Savory Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with crispy edges and a rich, tangy glaze. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this dish is a winner for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special holiday spread. The balance of garlic, balsamic vinegar, and honey creates a sauce that pairs perfectly with roasted Brussels sprouts, making this side dish a memorable addition to your meal. So, grab your Brussels sprouts, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a tasty, nutritious side dish that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why are my Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts not crispy?
To ensure your Brussels sprouts come out crispy, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. If the sprouts are too close together, they steam instead of roast, resulting in a soggy texture. Always give them plenty of space to crisp up. Additionally, make sure they are roasted cut side down to get those golden edges.
2. Can I use olive oil for roasting the Brussels sprouts?
While olive oil can be used for the glaze, it’s not the best choice for roasting Brussels sprouts because it has a low smoke point. For roasting, opt for avocado oil or any high-heat oil to prevent burning and ensure a crispy texture.
3. How can I make the sauce thicker for my Brussels sprouts?
If you prefer a thicker balsamic glaze, try adding a slurry of cornstarch or tapioca starch to the sauce. Mix a small amount of starch with water, then add it to the simmering sauce. Stir well, and allow it to thicken as it cooks. This method will help achieve a more syrupy consistency.
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Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts offer the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crispy flavors in every bite. Roasted Brussels sprouts are coated in a rich, sticky balsamic-honey glaze, creating a dish that is both healthy and indulgent. This easy recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a holiday table, providing a delightful side dish that pairs well with various main courses.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, stems removed
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the Brussels sprouts in half and place them on a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle with avocado oil and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Lay the Brussels sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 18-20 minutes until they are golden and crispy on the edges.
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic.
- Simmer the mixture on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce thickens, remove from heat and set aside.
- Take the Brussels sprouts out of the oven and toss them with the balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- To achieve the crispiest Brussels sprouts, make sure to roast them cut side down.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, add a cornstarch or tapioca starch slurry to the sauce as it simmers.
- For a vegan version, substitute maple syrup for honey.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh their crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Sides
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
