Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Brussel sprouts with pecans recipe is your answer. It transforms humble Brussel sprouts into a delicious and satisfying side that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish. This recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals made easy, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/4 cup pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Brussel Sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the Brussel sprouts, removing any loose outer leaves. Cut them in half lengthwise. If they're particularly large, you might want to quarter them for even cooking.
Step 2: Toss and Roast
In a large bowl, toss the Brussel sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they're evenly coated. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussel sprouts are tender and slightly browned. For extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add the Pecans and Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Once the Brussel sprouts are tender, remove them from the oven and add the pecan halves. Pour the balsamic glaze over the sprouts and pecans, tossing gently to combine.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately. The warm, slightly sweet and tangy glaze complements the nutty pecans and perfectly roasted Brussel sprouts. This recipe is a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas.
Cooking Tips for the Best Brussel Sprouts
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the Brussel sprouts are in a single layer for even roasting. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your Brussel sprouts. Smaller sprouts will cook faster. Check for doneness by piercing them with a fork.
- Get creative with the glaze: Experiment with different types of vinegar or sweeteners. A touch of Dijon mustard would add a nice kick!
- Add other nuts: Walnuts or almonds would be delicious substitutes for pecans.
Variations:
- Spicy Brussel Sprouts: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Brussel Sprouts: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts during the last few minutes of roasting.
- Bacon Brussel Sprouts: Cook some bacon crumbles and add them to the sprouts before glazing.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This delicious recipe is a testament to how easy it is to create healthy and flavorful meals at home. It's a fantastic option for anyone looking for easy recipes, best recipes, or simply a delicious addition to their dinner table. Enjoy!