Description
Roasted maple balsamic brussels sprouts dance with sweet-savory harmony, bringing caramelized perfection to your dinner table. Crispy edges and rich glaze make these sprouts an irresistible side dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds (680 grams) Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Toppings and Garnish:
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (for a festive touch)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta or goat cheese (for extra creaminess)
- 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled (because bacon makes everything better!)
Instructions
- Arrange the oven rack in the middle position and heat to a high-temperature setting of 425°F, creating an ideal roasting environment for the Brussels sprouts.
- Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by covering it with parchment paper or applying a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Thoroughly wash the Brussels sprouts under cool running water, removing any dirt or debris from the outer leaves.
- Trim the stem ends of the sprouts and slice each vegetable in half lengthwise, creating a flat surface that will caramelize beautifully during roasting.
- Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl, positioning them cut-side up to maximize potential flavor development.
- Drizzle maple syrup and balsamic vinegar over the sprouts, using a gentle tossing motion to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the sweet and tangy glaze.
- Season the Brussels sprouts with salt and pepper, distributing the seasoning uniformly to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Transfer the glazed sprouts to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them cut-side down to promote optimal caramelization and crispy edges.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through to ensure even browning and prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven when the Brussels sprouts have developed a deep golden-brown color and crispy exterior, signaling they are perfectly roasted and ready to serve.
Notes
- Slice Brussels sprouts in half for maximum caramelization and even roasting, ensuring crispy edges and tender centers.
- Use fresh, firm Brussels sprouts with bright green leaves to guarantee the best flavor and texture during roasting.
- Arrange sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet to achieve a golden-brown, slightly charred surface that enhances their natural sweetness.
- Adjust maple syrup and balsamic vinegar quantities based on personal taste preferences, creating a balanced sweet and tangy glaze that complements the vegetable’s earthy profile.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg