Are you looking for a side dish that combines sweet and savory? Look no further! My Maple Dijon Roasted Brussels recipe is simple, quick, and full of rich flavor. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that will wow your guests. Let’s dive in and make those Brussels sprouts the star of your dinner table!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet maple syrup perfectly complements the tangy Dijon mustard, creating a delightful balance that enhances the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and fiber, and roasting them brings out their natural sweetness while keeping them nutritious.
- Versatile Side Dish: These roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with various main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes, making them a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish. When trimmed and halved, they roast beautifully. Olive oil adds richness, while the maple syrup gives a sweet touch. The Dijon mustard adds a nice tang.
Seasoning and Add-Ins
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
Garlic powder wakes up the flavors. Salt and pepper are must-haves for taste. Chopped pecans add crunch and taste, but they are optional.
Garnishing Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh parsley is the perfect finish. It adds color and a fresh flavor to the roasted sprouts.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will help the Brussels sprouts roast perfectly. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the maple-Dijon mixture
In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, along with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This sweet and tangy sauce will coat our sprouts nicely.
Coating and Arranging
1. Coat the Brussels sprouts with the mixture
Take 1 pound of Brussels sprouts that you’ve trimmed and halved. Add them to the bowl with your maple-Dijon mixture. Toss the sprouts gently to coat them evenly. Make sure every sprout gets that tasty glaze.
2. Arrange Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet
Spread the coated Brussels sprouts out on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid crowding them. This allows them to roast well and get that nice caramelized look.
Roasting Steps
1. Roast and toss halfway
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the Brussels sprouts for about 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, take them out and toss them gently. This helps them brown evenly and enhances their flavor.
2. Add pecans and finish roasting
If you like, you can add 1/4 cup of chopped pecans to the baking sheet during the last 5 minutes. This gives them a nice crunch. Once they are done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious Maple Dijon Roasted Brussels!
Tips & Tricks
Ideal Cooking Time
Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20 to 25 minutes. This time gives them a nice caramelization. You want them golden brown and fork-tender. Check them halfway through and give them a little toss. This helps them cook evenly.
Ensuring Even Roasting
Spacing is key for roasting. Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they crowd each other, they will steam instead of roast. This makes them less crispy. So, give them space to shine!
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, use a shallow dish. Once roasted, drizzle any glaze left on the baking sheet over the sprouts. This adds shine and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top makes the dish pop with color. Serve it warm for the best taste!
Pro Tips
- Even Roasting: Make sure to spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly and achieve a nice caramelization.
- Maple Syrup Alternatives: If you’re out of maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute for a similar sweetness.
- Adding Heat: For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the maple-Dijon mixture before coating the Brussels sprouts.
- Garnishing: Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can also be used instead of parsley for a different flavor profile that complements the dish beautifully.
Variations
Additional Flavor Enhancements
You can make your Maple Dijon Roasted Brussels even better. Try adding cayenne pepper for some heat. A little kick can change the whole dish. Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste. This spice gives a nice balance to the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Alternative Sweeteners
If you don’t have maple syrup, don’t worry! You can use honey or agave syrup instead. Both options work great. Honey adds a floral note while agave keeps it light. These sweeteners will still give you that lovely glaze on the Brussels sprouts.
Serving Options
Maple Dijon Roasted Brussels are tasty on their own, but they also pair well with other dishes. Serve them next to roast chicken or grilled salmon. They also shine in salads. Toss them with mixed greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. This adds freshness and crunch to your meal. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your Maple Dijon Roasted Brussels fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place them in the fridge within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for about three to four days. If you want to keep them even fresher, let them cool completely before sealing the container. This helps prevent moisture build-up.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, the oven is your best friend. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them crisp and tasty. You can also use a microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just cover them with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts. Stir between heating to ensure even warmth.
Freezing Storage
If you want to freeze your Brussels sprouts, it’s best to do so before cooking. Trim and halve them, then blanch in boiling water for three minutes. After that, place them in ice water to stop cooking. Drain and dry them well. Pack the sprouts in freezer bags, removing all air, and store in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight before roasting. This keeps the flavor and texture just right.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of Brussels sprouts?
Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients. One cup has about 38 calories, 3 grams of protein, and 8 grams of carbs. They are rich in vitamins C and K. These sprouts also have fiber, which helps with digestion. They contain antioxidants that fight free radicals. Eating Brussels sprouts can boost heart health and reduce cancer risk.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prep Brussels sprouts ahead of time. Trim and halve them a day before. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can mix the maple-Dijon dressing early too. Just keep it in a separate container. When you’re ready, combine the sprouts and dressing. This will save time on busy days.
What other dishes pair well with Maple Dijon Roasted Brussels?
Maple Dijon Roasted Brussels go well with many meals. Try them with roasted chicken or pork. They also pair nicely with quinoa or rice dishes. For a vegetarian meal, serve them with lentils. Add a fresh salad for extra crunch and color. These options create a balanced and tasty meal.
In this article, we’ve explored a tasty Maple Dijon Roasted Brussels sprouts recipe. We discussed the main ingredients, seasoning tips, and step-by-step instructions for perfect roasting. We also looked at ways to store leftovers and answered common questions.
Brussels sprouts can be healthy and delicious with the right prep. Try customizing the recipe with your favorite flavors. Enjoy these sprouts as a side or a main dis
