Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a delicious side dish to accompany that golden turkey, right? And let me tell you, brussel sprouts are one of my absolute favorites! They’re often overlooked, but when roasted to perfection, they become a fabulous addition to any festive table. I love how they’re not just tasty; they also bring a wonderful texture and a pop of color to the spread. This recipe is my go-to for a simple yet scrumptious brussel sprout Thanksgiving side. It’s packed with flavor and so easy to whip up, you’ll be wondering why you’ve waited so long to try it! The combination of nutty pecans and sweet cranberries gives these little gems a delightful twist that perfectly complements your holiday feast. Trust me, your guests will be raving about them!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this brussel sprout Thanksgiving side shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1.5 pounds brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Make sure to get fresh brussel sprouts—they really make a difference in flavor! And don’t worry too much about being precise with the salt and pepper; it’s all about what tastes good to you. You can even swap in different nuts or dried fruits if you want to experiment a little. The more personalized, the better!
How to Prepare Your Brussel Sprout Thanksgiving Side
Preparing this brussel sprout Thanksgiving side is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a gorgeous dish ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for roasting because it helps to caramelize the brussel sprouts, giving them that lovely golden-brown color and crispy edges that we all crave. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Prepare the Brussel Sprouts
Now, grab those beautiful brussel sprouts and toss them into a large bowl. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper, and give them a good mix. You want to make sure every little sprout is evenly coated—this helps them roast beautifully and absorb all that flavor. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to ensure they’re all dressed up and ready to go!
Roast the Brussel Sprouts
Next, spread the brussel sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet. This is super important! Giving them space allows the heat to circulate and ensures they cook evenly. If they’re piled up, they’ll steam instead of roast, and we definitely want that crispy texture! Roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden and tender. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen starts smelling amazing!
Add Pecans and Cranberries
Halfway through roasting, it’s time to add the pecans and cranberries. This is where the magic happens! Adding them at this point allows the nuts to toast up nicely, bringing out their flavor, while the cranberries soften and get even sweeter. Just sprinkle them on top and let everything continue roasting until the brussel sprouts are done.
Drizzle with Balsamic Vinegar
Finally, when the brussel sprouts are perfectly roasted, take them out of the oven and drizzle a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar over the top. This final touch adds a tangy sweetness that elevates the whole dish. Give them a gentle toss to combine, and then they’re ready to serve! I promise, this last step makes all the difference!
Nutritional Information
You might be wondering just how nutritious this delightful brussel sprout Thanksgiving side is! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (that’s about 1/2 cup):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices. But one thing’s for sure: this dish is packed with goodness and makes for a fantastic, veggie-filled addition to your holiday table! Enjoy every healthy bite!
Tips for Success
To make sure your brussel sprout Thanksgiving side turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks:
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. If you love a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
- Experiment with Nuts: While I love pecans, feel free to swap them out for walnuts or even sliced almonds. Each nut will add a unique flavor and texture to your dish.
- Mix in Other Veggies: This recipe is versatile! You can toss in some sliced carrots or bell peppers for added color and sweetness. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different veggies may require slight adjustments.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Remember, space is key! If you have a lot of brussel sprouts, consider using two baking sheets. This way, they’ll roast instead of steam, giving you that beautiful caramelization.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh brussel sprouts really make a difference in flavor! If you can, choose ones that are firm and bright green. They should smell fresh and earthy, too!
- Make It Ahead: If you’re hosting, you can prep the brussel sprouts ahead of time. Just toss them in olive oil and seasonings, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to roast. This saves time on the big day!
- Keep an Eye on Roasting: Ovens vary, so start checking your brussel sprouts around the 20-minute mark. You want them golden and crispy, not burnt!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning brussel sprout side that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re like me, you love a recipe that’s versatile! There are so many ways to customize this brussel sprout Thanksgiving side to fit your taste or to use up what you have on hand. Here are some of my favorite variations:
- Nutty Delight: While pecans are fantastic, you can swap them for walnuts, hazelnuts, or even pistachios for a different crunch. Each nut brings its own flavor profile—experiment and see what you like best!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the brussel sprouts before roasting. Just chop them finely and toss them in with the olive oil for an aromatic twist that screams holiday spirit!
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the brussel sprouts before roasting. It adds a surprising kick that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Cheesy Goodness: For a rich and savory twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the brussel sprouts during the last few minutes of roasting. The cheese will melt and create a delightful crust—yum!
- Sweet and Savory: Try tossing in some diced apples or pears along with the pecans and cranberries. They’ll caramelize beautifully and add a sweet contrast that complements the nutty flavors.
- Mixed Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables like sliced carrots, red onions, or even Brussels sprout leaves for more color and flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different veggies may roast at different rates.
- Maple Glaze: Instead of balsamic vinegar, drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the roasted brussel sprouts right before serving for a sweet, festive touch. It pairs wonderfully with the nuts and cranberries!
Feel free to get creative! The beauty of this dish is that it can be tailored to your preferences and what you’ve got in your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting and making this brussel sprout Thanksgiving side uniquely yours!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious brussel sprout Thanksgiving side, let’s talk about how to make it shine at your holiday table! This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses and complements the flavors of traditional Thanksgiving fare. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Roast Turkey: The classic Thanksgiving centerpiece! The savory, juicy turkey contrasts perfectly with the earthy flavors of the roasted brussel sprouts, creating a harmonious balance. Don’t forget to drench it all in gravy for that ultimate comfort food experience!
- Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweet and salty notes of a honey-glazed ham play nicely with the sweetness of the cranberries in your brussel sprouts. It’s a match made in flavor heaven!
- Stuffed Acorn Squash: For a vegetarian option, serve your brussel sprouts alongside stuffed acorn squash filled with quinoa, cranberries, and nuts. The combination of textures and flavors will impress all your guests!
- Mashed Potatoes: You can never go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes! Their rich, buttery goodness pairs perfectly with the crispy brussel sprouts, making for a delightful contrast.
- Cranberry Sauce: This classic condiment not only brightens up your plate but also ties in beautifully with the cranberries in your dish. It’s all about those complementary flavors!
- Green Bean Casserole: Another holiday staple, this creamy dish adds richness to your meal. The crunchy texture of the brussel sprouts will bring a nice balance to the creamy beans.
When serving, consider creating a beautiful platter that showcases the vibrant colors of your brussel sprouts next to the other dishes. It’s all about presentation! You can even sprinkle some additional chopped pecans or cranberries on top for a festive touch. No matter what you pair with your brussel sprout side, it’s sure to be a hit at the Thanksgiving feast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After your Thanksgiving feast, you might find yourself with some delicious brussel sprout leftovers. Lucky you! Here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy that fabulous flavor again:
- Storage: Allow the brussel sprouts to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This will help prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep them sealed tightly so they stay fresh!
- Reheating: To reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then spread the brussel sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crispy again. This method really brings back that delicious roasted texture!
- Microwave Option: If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave. Just pop the brussel sprouts in a microwave-safe bowl, cover them with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed. They might not be as crispy as the oven method, but they’ll still be tasty!
- Freezing: If you have a lot of leftovers, you can freeze them too! Just make sure to cool them completely and then transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
With these tips, your brussel sprout Thanksgiving side can be just as delightful the next day! Enjoy those tasty bites, and don’t forget to savor every moment!
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Brussel Sprout Thanksgiving Side: 7 Flavorful Twists to Try
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and simple brussel sprout side dish perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss brussel sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Add pecans and cranberries halfway through roasting.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the roasted brussel sprouts before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add other nuts or seeds.
- Adjust seasoning based on your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: brussel sprout thanksgiving side
