Are you tired of the same old side dishes? Looking for a healthy and flavorful addition to your holiday table or a simple weeknight dinner? Then look no further! This recipe for roasted Brussel sprouts with cranberries and pecans is a game-changer. It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with festive flavors, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. This healthy and delicious side dish is perfect for anyone searching for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, or the best recipes for homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, trim and halve the Brussel sprouts. Remove any loose outer leaves that look wilted.
-
Toss & Season: In a large bowl, combine the Brussel sprouts, cranberries, and pecans. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup. Season generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the Brussel sprouts are evenly coated.
-
Roast to Perfection: Spread the Brussel sprout mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussel sprouts are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them – ovens vary!
-
Serve & Enjoy: Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Brussel sprouts cool slightly before serving. The slight cooling allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This delicious dish is a fantastic addition to any meal, making it a perfect choice for healthy meals.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Make sure the Brussel sprouts are in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your Brussel sprouts and your oven. Check for doneness after 20 minutes. They should be tender but still have a slight crispness.
- Get creative with seasonings: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
Variations:
- Add some cheese: Sprinkle some crumbled goat cheese or Parmesan cheese over the roasted Brussel sprouts before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by omitting the honey.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This simple yet elegant recipe for roasted Brussel sprouts with cranberries and pecans is a surefire way to elevate your next meal. It's a quick and easy recipe, perfect for those busy weeknights, and the delicious combination of flavors makes it a delightful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy!