When Thanksgiving rolls around, brussel sprout recipes become a highlight on my holiday table, and let me tell you, this one is a showstopper! The combination of roasted brussel sprouts, sweet maple syrup, and tangy balsamic vinegar creates a mouthwatering balance of flavors that’s simply irresistible. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family—everyone was surprised at how much they loved brussel sprouts! It’s all about that golden-brown roast, mixed with the crunch of walnuts and the chewy sweetness of dried cranberries. Trust me, this brussel sprout recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, and it’s bound to win over even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients List
- 2 pounds brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup packed dried cranberries
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, let’s preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key to getting those brussel sprouts perfectly roasted!
- While the oven heats up, grab a large bowl and toss the trimmed and halved brussel sprouts with the olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they’re well-coated—this will help them roast beautifully.
- Next, spread those brussel sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Give them a little space; they like to breathe while roasting!
- Now, pop them in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to give them a good stir halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when they’re done.
- While the sprouts are roasting, let’s whip up that delicious balsamic glaze! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly—oh, the smell is to die for!
- Once the brussel sprouts are out of the oven, drizzle that heavenly balsamic mixture over them while they’re still warm.
- Finally, toss in the chopped walnuts and dried cranberries, mixing everything together gently. Serve warm, and watch them disappear!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready in no time—perfect for those busy holiday kitchens!
- Delicious balance of sweet and savory: The combination of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar creates an explosion of flavor that’s both rich and refreshing.
- Healthy side dish option: Loaded with nutrients and fiber, these brussel sprouts are a guilt-free addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
- Vegetarian-friendly: This recipe fits right into any vegetarian spread, making it a versatile choice for all your guests.
- Great for holiday gatherings: It’s always a crowd-pleaser! The colorful presentation and delightful taste make it an instant hit on any table.
Tips for Success
- Choosing fresh brussel sprouts: Look for brussel sprouts that are firm and compact, with vibrant green leaves. Avoid any that are yellowing or have blemishes. The smaller the sprouts, the sweeter they tend to be—so don’t hesitate to pick the petite ones!
- Achieving the perfect roast: For that crispy exterior, make sure the brussel sprouts are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them will cause steaming instead of roasting, which we definitely want to avoid. Also, don’t forget to give them a good stir halfway through cooking to ensure even browning!
- Alternatives for balsamic vinegar or maple syrup: If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, a splash of apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can work in a pinch. For maple syrup, try honey or agave nectar—just adjust the amount to your taste, as they can be sweeter. Both options will still give you that lovely sweet-savory combination!
Variations
- Add different nuts or seeds: Feel free to switch up the walnuts! Pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds can add a delightful crunch and flavor twist.
- Mix in additional vegetables: Try tossing in some diced sweet potatoes, carrots, or even some sliced bell peppers. They’ll roast beautifully alongside the brussel sprouts and add extra color and nutrition to your dish!
- Experiment with spices: Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or some garlic powder for an aromatic touch. You could also sprinkle in some smoked paprika for a lovely depth of flavor.
- Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate this dish to a whole new level. Toss in a few sprigs before roasting for an earthy aroma that fills your kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed the deliciousness of this brussel sprout recipe, you might have some leftovers—lucky you! To store them, let the brussel sprouts cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them sealed tight so they don’t dry out!
When it’s time to reheat, there are a couple of great options. You can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help restore that lovely crispiness. Just spread them out on a baking sheet to avoid steaming. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Keep in mind, though, the microwave may make them a bit softer, but they’ll still taste fantastic!
Nutritional Information
This brussel sprout recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition! Each serving, which is about 1 cup, contains approximately 180 calories. You’ll get 10 grams of fat, including just 1 gram of saturated fat, making it a healthier choice for your Thanksgiving spread. With 4 grams of protein and 20 grams of carbohydrates, plus a satisfying 5 grams of fiber, these tasty sprouts help keep you feeling full and energized. Remember, this nutritional information is an estimate, but it’s a guilt-free addition to any holiday meal!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the brussel sprouts and even roast them a day in advance. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat them in the oven for that perfect crispiness!
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, don’t worry! Honey or agave nectar work wonderfully as alternatives. Just keep an eye on the sweetness, as you might want to adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
Are brussel sprouts healthy?
Yes, brussel sprouts are incredibly healthy! They’re low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. This makes them a great addition to your Thanksgiving table, providing both nutrition and delicious flavor!
Can I use frozen brussel sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh is always best for that lovely texture, you can use frozen brussel sprouts in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting, as excess moisture can prevent them from getting crispy.
What’s the best way to store leftovers from my brussel sprout recipes Thanksgiving?
For leftovers, let the brussel sprouts cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well if you want to save them for later—just make sure to reheat them properly when you’re ready to enjoy!
Brussel Sprout Recipes Thanksgiving: 7 Irresistible Flavors
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious brussel sprout recipe perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the brussel sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the brussel sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown.
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Drizzle the balsamic mixture over the roasted brussel sprouts.
- Add walnuts and cranberries, and toss to combine.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Feel free to add other nuts or fruits.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: brussel sprout recipes thanksgiving
