Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Blue Cheese

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Blue Cheese is a stunning dish that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Perfect for holidays or as a healthy yet indulgent side dish, this recipe elevates humble Brussels sprouts into a gourmet delight. The natural bitterness of the sprouts is balanced with the sweetness of cranberries and honey, while the blue cheese adds a creamy richness that ties the dish together. This guide will walk you through every step of the preparation process, along with tips, benefits, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Ingredients

• Brussels Sprouts: 1 lb, trimmed and halved
• Fresh Cranberries: 1/2 cup
• Blue Cheese: 1/4 cup, crumbled
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
• Balsamic Vinegar: 2 tbsp
• Honey: 1 tbsp
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Pecans (Optional): 1/4 cup, chopped

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Nutritional Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150 kcal

Directions

Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Wash and trim the sprouts, cutting them in half to ensure even cooking.
3. Season the Sprouts: Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through roasting to ensure an even golden brown on all sides.

Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix the balsamic vinegar and honey.
2. Simmer and Reduce: Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Thicken the Glaze: Let the glaze cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it reduces to a thick, syrup-like consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Transfer the Sprouts: Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish.
2. Add the Toppings: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the sprouts, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle the cranberries, blue cheese, and optional chopped pecans on top.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the dish warm as a side for a festive meal or as a healthy snack. The contrast of flavors and textures will delight your palate!

Tips for the Perfect Brussels Sprouts Dish

1. Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for bright green sprouts that are firm to the touch. Avoid any with yellowing leaves.
2. Cut Evenly: Halving the sprouts ensures even roasting. Larger ones may need to be quartered.
3. Flip During Roasting: Turning the sprouts halfway through cooking prevents burning and ensures even caramelization.
4. Customize Toppings: Add other nuts like walnuts or seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch.

Benefits of Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

1. Nutrient-Rich: Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
2. Heart-Healthy: Olive oil and nuts provide healthy fats that support cardiovascular health.
3. Anti-Inflammatory: The combination of cranberries and Brussels sprouts helps reduce inflammation.
4. Low-Calorie Option: This dish is filling and flavorful without being calorie-dense, making it ideal for weight management.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the roasted Brussels sprouts and balsamic glaze ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers and assemble them just before serving.

2. What can I substitute for blue cheese?

If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feta or goat cheese are excellent alternatives that provide a similar creamy texture.

3. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, but frozen sprouts can work in a pinch. Make sure to thaw and pat them dry before roasting.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

5. Can I omit the honey?

For a sugar-free version, substitute honey with a natural sweetener like stevia or skip it altogether.

Conclusion

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Blue Cheese is a versatile, delicious recipe that’s as healthy as it is indulgent. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday side dish or a midweek treat, the harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors will impress everyone at the table. Try customizing the recipe with your favorite toppings, and don’t forget to enjoy the nutritional benefits of this wholesome dish.

Get ready to wow your family and friends with this gourmet yet simple recipe!