Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that's quick to prepare? Then look no further! This Brussel sprouts and sausage recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's packed with nutrients and incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!), casings removed
- 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (for extra flavor)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth (for extra moisture)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and onion, and cook, breaking the sausage into smaller pieces with a spoon, until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
Step 2: Add the Brussel Sprouts and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the Brussel sprouts and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sprouts begin to tenderize and brown slightly.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection (Optional): For extra flavor and moisture, stir in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the Brussel sprouts are cooked through and tender but still retain a slight crunch.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!: Serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread for soaking up all those flavorful juices.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the Brussel sprouts: Overcooked Brussel sprouts can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Use high-quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and thyme to your liking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. This is a great way to incorporate more healthy meals into your diet.
Variations:
- Maple-Glazed: Add a drizzle of maple syrup during the last few minutes of cooking for a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Lemon-Herb: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon during the simmering stage, along with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This simple and delicious Brussel sprouts and sausage recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It’s a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking adventures. Enjoy this satisfying and healthy meal!