Posted on May 22, 2025 by Madison
Looking for a side dish that’s both simple and impressive? These Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts are crispy, caramelized, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this quick recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
📝 Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup pecans, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🛒 Ingredient Tips
- Brussels sprouts: Choose firm, bright green ones with no dark spots.
- Balsamic vinegar: Use a good-quality aged vinegar for deeper flavor.
- Honey: Pure honey (or maple syrup) works best for sweetness.
- Olive oil: Use extra virgin for added richness.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves make a big difference.
🔄 Substitutions
- No honey? Use maple syrup or agave.
- Nut allergy? Skip the pecans or try sunflower seeds.
- Want it spicy? Add more red pepper flakes.
- No balsamic? Apple cider vinegar gives a unique tang.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures perfect caramelization.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, combine:
- Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Honey
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
Toss well to coat. If you like heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and mix again.
3. Roast
Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning.
4. Add Crunch
In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle chopped pecans over the sprouts. They’ll toast lightly and add crunch.
5. Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and drizzle with any extra glaze from the pan.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
These sprouts pair beautifully with:
- Grilled or roasted chicken, fish, or pork chops
- Plant-based options like tofu, chickpeas, or lentils
- Sides like quinoa, rice, or hearty pasta
🔄 Flavor Variations
- Add Veggies: Toss in chopped carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, or cauliflower for a colorful mix.
- Try New Glazes: Swap the balsamic glaze with a honey mustard blend or a soy-garlic mix for a flavor twist.
- Make It a Meal: Add cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes before roasting for a full one-pan dish.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Let cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Best reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. Microwave in short bursts if needed.
❓ FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes! Just thaw and pat them dry before roasting. They may not be as crispy as fresh ones, but still delicious.
Is this dish vegan?
Easily! Just swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
What if I don’t like pecans?
Feel free to skip them or use another crunchy topping like roasted seeds or almonds.
✅ Final Thoughts
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts are a tasty, versatile dish perfect for any meal. With simple ingredients and a few tips, you’ll create a crispy, savory-sweet side that even sprout skeptics will love.
