Tired of the same old boring side dishes? Craving something healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These caramelized Brussels sprouts are about to become your new favorite go-to recipe. Forget everything you thought you knew about Brussels sprouts – this recipe transforms them into sweet, crispy, and utterly addictive little bites. Perfect as a simple side dish for any occasion, or even as a standalone vegetarian meal, this recipe is a winner for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Prepare to elevate your culinary game with this incredibly easy yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
Instructions:
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Prep the sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and trim off the ends. Halve or quarter them, depending on their size. Aim for roughly uniform pieces for even cooking.
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Caramelize the magic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Brussels sprouts, cut-side down, and let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes, until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. This is key to achieving that delicious caramelization!
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Flip and finish: Flip the sprouts and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until they are tender-crisp and caramelized on all sides.
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Season and enhance: Stir in the balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Toss everything together to coat the sprouts evenly.
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Optional Crunch: If using pecans or walnuts, add them during the last minute of cooking. Toss gently to combine.
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Serve and enjoy: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your caramelized Brussels sprouts immediately. They are delicious on their own, or as an accompaniment to roasted meats, fish, or poultry.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Caramelization:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Working in batches if necessary ensures even browning and caramelization.
- High heat is your friend: Medium-high heat is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
- Patience is a virtue: Resist the urge to stir too frequently, especially during the initial browning stage.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste the sprouts before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
Variations:
- Maple-Glazed: Add a drizzle of maple syrup during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest adds brightness and freshness.
- Bacon Bits: Crumble some cooked bacon over the top for extra flavor and texture. This is a great way to turn this into a quick and easy side for a holiday meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your Brussels sprouts and the additions you choose, but a typical serving contains around:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 4-6g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 4-6g
This simple recipe is a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that are both healthy and delicious, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be amazing! Try this recipe today and discover a new favorite amongst your best recipes.