Brussels sprouts are a fantastic vegetable that can often be overlooked, but when roasted with a touch of honey, they transform into a delicious and flavorful side dish. This Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is an easy, healthy, and savory way to elevate your vegetable game. The natural sweetness of honey perfectly complements the earthy, slightly bitter taste of Brussels sprouts, creating a balanced and mouthwatering dish that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Why You Should Make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts
1. A Healthier Side Dish Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Roasting them brings out their natural flavor, and the honey glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness. The addition of honey also brings anti-inflammatory benefits, making this dish a great choice for those looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal.
2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors The roasted Brussels sprouts offer a crispy, caramelized exterior while maintaining a tender inside. The honey glaze gives them a sweet and sticky finish, enhancing their flavor without overwhelming the natural earthiness of the sprouts. With a hint of garlic and a squeeze of lemon, this dish is the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy.
3. Easy to Make This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients and a short time in the oven. It’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or holiday dinners. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian meals.
Ingredients for Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions for Making Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the tough stems from the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. If some of the outer leaves fall off, don’t worry! These leaves become crispy and caramelized during roasting, adding extra flavor.
Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each sprout is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want the Brussels sprouts to be golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Step 5: Drizzle with Honey
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, remove them from the oven. Drizzle the honey over the hot Brussels sprouts and toss them gently to coat. If you like, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top for an added burst of brightness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For a final touch, garnish the honey-glazed Brussels sprouts with fresh parsley. Serve them warm and enjoy the sweet, savory goodness!
Tips for Perfect Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you crowd the Brussels sprouts too much, they will steam rather than roast, which prevents them from getting crispy. Use a large enough baking sheet to allow the sprouts to spread out evenly.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer your Brussels sprouts a little sweeter, feel free to add more honey. Conversely, if you like them less sweet, reduce the amount of honey.
- Add extras: For a more complex flavor, try adding balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes for some heat, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese after roasting.
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. They’re also rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health. By roasting them with honey and olive oil, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also creating a dish that supports heart health and digestive health.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Honey-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts are a versatile side dish that fits perfectly with many meals. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a holiday feast, these sprouts are sure to impress your guests. Their balance of flavors makes them a great companion for a variety of main dishes, such as roast chicken, grilled steak, or a simple vegan grain bowl.
Conclusion
Incorporating Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts into your meal planning is a simple way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious side dish. With its combination of sweet, savory, and crispy textures, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Try it today, and discover just how irresistible Brussels sprouts can be when prepared with a touch of honey and roasted to perfection.
Serving and Storage Tips for Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Serving Tips
- Pair with Your Favorite Dishes: Honey-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish for a variety of meals. Serve them alongside roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef, or pair them with hearty vegetarian dishes like grain bowls, quinoa, or risotto.
- Garnish with Fresh Ingredients: After roasting and glazing the Brussels sprouts, consider adding a final touch with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick for those who enjoy a little spice.
- Serve as a Snack or Appetizer: These Brussels sprouts are great as a healthy appetizer or snack for parties. They’re just as delicious served on their own as a light bite or finger food, making them perfect for gatherings.
- Top with Cheese: For extra flavor, try sprinkling freshly grated parmesan cheese or feta cheese over the Brussels sprouts just before serving. The creamy texture of the cheese balances the sweetness of the honey.
Storage Tips
- Store Leftovers: After cooking, let the Brussels sprouts cool down to room temperature before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat Properly: While these Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use the microwave, but they may lose some of their crispiness.
- Freezing Brussels Sprouts: If you have a large batch of leftovers, you can freeze roasted Brussels sprouts, though the texture may change once thawed. To freeze, spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them directly from frozen in the oven.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of honey-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts for days after making them!
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in a pinch. However, they tend to release more moisture when roasting, which may affect the crispiness. If using frozen sprouts, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before roasting.
2. How can I make these Brussels sprouts spicier?
If you prefer a spicy kick, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the honey glaze. For extra heat, toss the Brussels sprouts with chopped jalapeños or drizzle them with a bit of sriracha sauce after roasting.
3. Can I make honey-glazed Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts up to the point of roasting and store them in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, roast them as directed, then drizzle with honey and serve. Alternatively, you can prepare and roast them in advance, store them in an airtight container, and reheat them in the oven before serving.
4. What other toppings can I add to the honey-glazed Brussels sprouts?
To add more flavor and texture, consider topping your Brussels sprouts with crumbled bacon, toasted almonds, or dried cranberries. A sprinkle of feta cheese or balsamic glaze can also enhance the dish with an extra layer of richness and tang.
Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasted
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts are caramelized to perfection with a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors. The honey adds a touch of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the crispy, roasted sprouts, making this dish the perfect side for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or any time you need a quick veggie boost!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
For garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts:
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Season the sprouts:
- Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Toss well to coat the sprouts evenly.
- Roast:
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sprouts are golden-brown and crispy on the edges.
- Add nuts (optional):
- If using pecans or walnuts, sprinkle them over the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting to toast them slightly.
- Serve:
- Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Honey substitute: For a vegan version, swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Crispier sprouts: For extra crispiness, broil the sprouts for the last 1–2 minutes of roasting.
- Flavor boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- Add-ins: Toss with crispy bacon bits or dried cranberries for more flavor and texture.