Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Bring a burst of flavor to your table with these Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. This delightful side dish combines the sweet richness of honey with the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar, creating a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the crispy roasted sprouts. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to impress your family and guests alike. With their vibrant color and irresistible crunch, these Brussels sprouts are not just a side; they’re the star of the meal!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Brussels Sprouts
• For the Glaze
• For Garnish
• How to Make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
• Step 3: Roast the Sprouts
• Step 4: Make the Balsamic Glaze
• Step 5: Combine and Serve
• How to Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
• As a Standalone Side
• Tossed in a Salad
• Paired with Roasted Meats
• With Pasta Dishes
• On a Charcuterie Board
• Garnished with Cheese
• How to Perfect Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
• Best Side Dishes for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
• Reheating Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make the balsamic glaze thicker?
• Can I use another sweetener instead of honey?
• What are some good pairings with Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
• Are Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts healthy?
• Can I prepare Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy addition to any meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a unique glaze that elevates the taste of Brussels sprouts.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering.
• Health Benefits: Packed with nutrients, Brussels sprouts are low in calories yet high in fiber and vitamins.
• Customizable Recipe: Easily modify by substituting honey with maple syrup or adding nuts for extra crunch.

Tools and Preparation

To make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A large surface area allows even roasting and crisping of the Brussels sprouts.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for simmering and thickening the balsamic sauce without taking up too much space on your stove.

Ingredients

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 Glaze

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic (grated)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Halve the Brussels sprouts and place them on a large baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with avocado oil, season with sea salt and black pepper.
3. Toss all ingredients together to coat evenly.

Step 3: Roast the Sprouts

Arrange the sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet. Roast for 18-20 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic.
2. Whisk together until combined.
3. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once roasted, transfer sprouts to a serving dish:
1. Toss with the balsamic sauce before serving warm.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts as a vibrant addition to any meal!

How to Serve Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts can elevate any meal with their sweet and tangy flavor. Here are some delightful ways to serve them that will impress your guests.

As a Standalone Side

• These sprouts shine on their own as a side dish, adding a burst of flavor to any plate.

Tossed in a Salad

• Combine roasted Brussels sprouts with mixed greens, nuts, and cranberries for a refreshing salad.

Paired with Roasted Meats

• Serve alongside roasted chicken or pork for a complementary flavor that enhances the main dish.

With Pasta Dishes

• Incorporate the sprouts into a pasta dish with garlic and olive oil for added texture and taste.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include these sprouts on your charcuterie board for a unique twist that pairs beautifully with cheeses and cured meats.

Garnished with Cheese

• Top with crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey.

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How to Perfect Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

To achieve the best Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, consider these simple yet effective tips. They will help you maximize flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Look for bright green, firm Brussels sprouts without yellow leaves for optimal taste.
• Cut Evenly: Halve the sprouts evenly to ensure they roast at the same rate, leading to a perfect crispy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the Brussels sprouts out on the baking sheet; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them in the oven; different ovens may require slight adjustments in cooking time for perfect crispiness.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like paprika or red pepper flakes for an additional kick.
• Garnish Creatively: Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme as garnish to enhance presentation and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts pair well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to round out your meal:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the tangy flavors of the sprouts perfectly.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast and adds healthy grains.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes beautifully with the honey glaze.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus provides a lovely crunch and vibrant color alongside the Brussels sprouts.
5. Couscous Pilaf: A flavorful couscous pilaf mixed with vegetables makes for an excellent base for your meal.
6. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach adds creaminess that contrasts nicely with the crispy texture of roasted sprouts.
7. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: This comfort food classic brings heartiness to your table and balances out lighter dishes.
8. Herb Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can soak up any remaining sauce from the honey balsamic glaze, enhancing every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a perfect dish every time.

• Skipping the Preheat: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always make sure your oven is at the right temperature before roasting.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Give them space for proper crisping.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can dull flavors. Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper for a balanced taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Roasting for too long can burn the sprouts, while too little time may leave them undercooked. Keep an eye on their color and texture.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients, especially honey or balsamic vinegar, affects the flavor profile. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

• Place cooled sprouts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Warm in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make the balsamic glaze thicker?

To thicken your glaze, simmer it longer on low heat until it reduces and coats the back of a spoon.

Can I use another sweetener instead of honey?

Yes! You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option that still offers sweetness.

What are some good pairings with Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?

These sprouts pair well with roasted meats, fish, or can be added to salads for extra flavor and crunch.

Are Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts healthy?

Absolutely! They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.

Can I prepare Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep them a day in advance and roast just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe allows you to customize flavors by adding nuts or changing sweeteners. Whether served at family dinners or holiday feasts, they’re sure to be a hit. Try this delightful side dish today!