Brussel Sprouts Recipe

Brussels sprouts have long been the underdog of the vegetable world, often misunderstood and unfairly relegated to the realm of bitter and bland. However, when prepared correctly, these little green gems can be transformed into a delicious and nutritious dish that even the most skeptical eaters will enjoy. Today, I’m sharing a simple yet mouthwatering recipe for crispy roasted Brussels sprouts that will change the way you view this cruciferous vegetable forever.

Why Brussels Sprouts?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate why Brussels sprouts deserve a spot on your plate. These miniature cabbages are packed with nutrients, including vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re also low in calories, making them a great addition to a healthy diet. Plus, when roasted to perfection, Brussels sprouts develop a crispy exterior and a tender, slightly sweet interior that’s utterly irresistible.

The Recipe: Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
   Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and pat them dry. Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise. If you have larger sprouts, you can quarter them to ensure even cooking.
3. Season the Sprouts:
   In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Ensure each sprout is well coated with the seasoning mixture.
4. Roast to Perfection:
   Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side down. This helps them develop a nice caramelized surface. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Shake the pan or flip the sprouts halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
5. Optional Finishing Touches:
   For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle the roasted Brussels sprouts with grated Parmesan cheese immediately after removing them from the oven. The heat from the sprouts will melt the cheese, creating a deliciously savory coating. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also add a bright, zesty note that complements the earthy flavor of the sprouts.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Transfer the crispy roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and enjoy them hot. They make a fantastic side dish for almost any meal, or you can even enjoy them as a healthy snack.

Tips for the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer and not touching each other. Overcrowding the pan will cause them to steam rather than roast, resulting in less crispy sprouts.
• Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts will yield the best flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen sprouts, as they tend to become mushy when roasted.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted sprouts for a touch of sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a testament to the magic that can happen when simple ingredients are prepared with care and attention. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve at a holiday feast. Give it a try, and you might just find that Brussels sprouts become a new favorite in your household.

Happy cooking!