Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Brussel sprouts and broccoli recipe is your answer. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to impress your guests. This recipe is all about bringing out the natural sweetness of these nutritious vegetables, creating a delicious and satisfying dish. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier than this!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons toasted slivered almonds (optional, for added crunch)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, wash and prepare your vegetables. Trim the ends off the Brussel sprouts and cut them in half. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
Step 2: Toss and Season
In a large bowl, combine the Brussel sprouts and broccoli florets. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated. This step ensures that every piece gets perfectly seasoned and roasted.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this helps them roast evenly and prevents steaming. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly browned. For extra crispy edges, you can broil for the last minute or two, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven. If using, sprinkle the toasted slivered almonds over the vegetables. Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish alongside your favorite protein. This simple recipe is perfect for any meal.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This ensures even roasting and prevents steaming.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on your oven and the size of your vegetables, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Check for doneness by piercing a Brussel sprout with a fork; it should be tender but still slightly firm.
- Add other spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as paprika, cumin, or cayenne pepper, to create your own unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Maple-Glazed: Add a drizzle of maple syrup to the vegetables during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a touch of sweetness.
- Lemon-Herb: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon, along with some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.
- Cheesy: Sprinkle some shredded Parmesan cheese over the vegetables during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on variations and serving size)
- Fat: 8-12g
- Protein: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Brussel sprouts and broccoli recipe is a great example of easy recipes that are both healthy and delicious. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and a fantastic way to enjoy these nutritious vegetables. Enjoy this tasty and healthy side dish!