Tired of the same old boring side dishes? Craving something healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for Brussels sprouts with pecans and cranberries is a game-changer. It transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a delicious and festive dish perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a holiday feast. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant side dish. This recipe is a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can deliver delicious dishes and healthy meals without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your Brussels sprouts roast perfectly, getting crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
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Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, removing any loose outer leaves. Cut them in half lengthwise. If they're particularly large, you can quarter them for even cooking.
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Toss with olive oil: In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they're evenly coated. This helps them achieve that lovely roasted flavor and texture.
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Roast the sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned. Keep an eye on them, and if they're browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly.
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Add pecans and cranberries: During the last 5 minutes of roasting, add the chopped pecans and dried cranberries to the baking sheet. Toss gently to combine with the Brussels sprouts. This allows the pecans to toast lightly and the cranberries to soften slightly.
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Finish with balsamic glaze: Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked, remove them from the oven. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. The balsamic vinegar adds a delightful tang, while the maple syrup provides a touch of sweetness that balances the dish beautifully.
Tips for the Best Brussels Sprouts:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer to promote even roasting and prevent steaming.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Smaller sprouts will cook faster than larger ones.
- Taste and adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup to your liking.
Variations:
- Add some spice: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Brussels sprouts before roasting.
- Use different nuts: Walnuts or almonds would also be delicious in this recipe.
- Add other dried fruits: Try substituting dried cherries or apricots for the cranberries.
- Bacon lovers rejoice!: Crumble some cooked bacon over the top for extra flavor and richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and satisfying side dish packed with nutrients. The exact nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving might include:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This delicious and easy Brussels sprouts recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. It’s a healthy meal option that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!