Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry Drizzle is a delightful dish that elevates the humble Brussels sprout into a star on your table. This recipe blends the earthy flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, topped off with a cranberry drizzle for a burst of flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or a weeknight family meal, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is easy to prepare, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Second, the combination of flavors—sweet, tangy, and nutty—makes it exciting and delicious. Lastly, the dish is nutritious and adds a colorful element to any meal, providing vitamins and minerals in every bite.
How to Make Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry Drizzle
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce, thinned with 1 tbsp warm water
- 2 tbsp toasted walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts evenly on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sprouts are golden and slightly crispy.
- In a small saucepan, simmer the balsamic vinegar with honey or maple syrup for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts and gently toss to coat.
- Transfer the sprouts to a serving dish, drizzle with cranberry sauce, and sprinkle with toasted nuts and fresh thyme leaves.
How to Serve Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry Drizzle
Serve this dish warm as a side to meats, poultry, or even as a part of a vegetarian meal. The colorful presentation and unique flavors make it an eye-catching addition to your plate. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, or baked salmon.
How to Store Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry Drizzle
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry Drizzle
- For extra flavor, you can add garlic to the Brussels sprouts before roasting.
- If you want a crunchier texture, roast for a few additional minutes.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup.
Variation
Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before roasting for a spicy kick! You can also substitute the walnuts or pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts will yield the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them first.
2. How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply replace honey with maple syrup to make it fully vegan.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can roast the Brussels sprouts ahead of time and heat them back up before serving. Drizzle the balsamic glaze and cranberry sauce just before serving for the best flavor.
