Crispy Brussels sprouts with sweet potato drizzled with a creamy tahini sauce make for an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. This delicious dish combines the crunchiness of perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of tender sweet potatoes, all brought together with the nutty creaminess of tahini. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple to follow and packed with nutrients.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make this mouthwatering dish step by step. We’ll cover everything from the list of ingredients to the preparation directions, as well as provide tips, benefits, and FAQs to help you make the perfect dish every time. We will also explore the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used, ensuring that you feel confident about what you’re serving at your next meal.
So, let’s dive into the delicious world of crispy Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and creamy tahini sauce.
Ingredients for Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Sweet Potato and Creamy Tahini Sauce
Ingredients List
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved: These nutrient-packed vegetables are the star of the dish, providing a crunchy texture and delightful roasted flavor.
- 1 large sweet potato, cubed: Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that complements the savory Brussels sprouts perfectly.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil helps in roasting the vegetables to a crispy golden brown, adding a hint of richness to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning to bring out the flavors of the Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes.
- 1/4 cup tahini: Tahini adds a creamy, nutty taste that ties the dish together beautifully.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds acidity to balance the richness of the tahini.
- 1 tbsp maple syrup: A touch of maple syrup adds sweetness, enhancing the flavors of the vegetables and sauce.
- 2 tbsp water (to thin): To achieve the desired consistency of the sauce.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving
Directions for Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Sweet Potato and Creamy Tahini Sauce
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Vegetables
To begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for ensuring that the Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes get crispy and golden while roasting. As the oven heats up, prepare your vegetables.
- Brussels Sprouts: Wash and dry 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Remove any loose outer leaves and trim the stem ends. Cut each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise to help them cook evenly and achieve that crispy texture.
- Sweet Potato: Peel and cube 1 large sweet potato into roughly 1-inch pieces. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking.
2. Season and Roast the Vegetables
Once the vegetables are prepped, place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes. Add salt and pepper to taste, making sure to toss everything so that each piece is evenly coated in oil and seasoning.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Transfer the vegetables to a baking sheet, spreading them out in an even layer. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this ensures they roast properly instead of steaming.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. About halfway through, flip the Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes to allow even browning on all sides. The vegetables should be crispy and golden brown when finished.
3. Prepare the Creamy Tahini Sauce
While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the creamy tahini sauce.
- Combine Tahini, Lemon Juice, and Maple Syrup: In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup tahini, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup.
- Add Water: Add 2 tablespoons of water to thin the sauce. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. You can adjust the water amount to achieve your desired consistency—whether you prefer a thicker sauce or a lighter drizzle.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the lemon juice, maple syrup, or salt to your preference. The sauce should be creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet.
4. Assemble and Serve
Once the Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven.
- Arrange on a Serving Dish: Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large serving dish or individual plates.
- Drizzle with Creamy Tahini Sauce: Generously drizzle the creamy tahini sauce over the vegetables. You can serve the remaining sauce on the side for those who want extra.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately while the vegetables are still warm and crispy. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Tips for Making Perfect Crispy Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potato
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes out on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause the vegetables to steam rather than roast, leading to a less crispy texture.
- Use High Heat: Roasting at 400°F ensures the vegetables get nice and crispy. If you notice they aren’t browning enough, you can turn up the heat slightly for the last few minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or garlic powder to the vegetables before roasting for extra flavor.
- Thinner Tahini Sauce: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Nutritional Benefits of Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Sweet Potato and Tahini
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable that are low in calories but packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They are an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin K, which contribute to immune function and bone health, respectively.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are especially high in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A, essential for eye health and immune function.
Tahini
Tahini, made from sesame seeds, is a great source of healthy fats, protein, and important nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. It also provides a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables.
FAQs About Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Sweet Potato
1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time. Roast the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness before serving.
2. How Can I Make the Brussels Sprouts Even Crispier?
To make Brussels sprouts even crispier, make sure they are completely dry before roasting and roast them cut side down. You can also broil them for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking for extra crunch.
3. Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses only vegetables, tahini, and seasonings.
4. Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can add other vegetables like carrots, red onion, or bell peppers for a colorful mix.
5. What Can I Substitute for Tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, you can use almond butter or cashew butter as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Benefits of Eating Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Both Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from harmful free radicals. This helps reduce inflammation and supports overall health.
2. Supports Digestive Health
The fiber content in Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes supports a healthy digestive system by promoting regular bowel movements and feeding beneficial gut bacteria.
3. Boosts Immune Function
Thanks to the high levels of vitamin C found in Brussels sprouts and the beta-carotene in sweet potatoes, this dish can help boost your immune function and keep you healthy, especially during cold and flu season.
4. Promotes Bone Health
Brussels sprouts are a good source of vitamin K, which plays a vital role in bone health and helps prevent bone-related disorders.
Conclusion: A Delicious and Nutritious Dish
Crispy Brussels sprouts with sweet potatoes and creamy tahini sauce is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy vegetables and creamy sauce creates a satisfying texture, while the natural sweetness and savory flavors balance each other perfectly.
Not only is this recipe tasty, but it’s also packed with nutrients that offer numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a light main course, this recipe fits the bill.
Try this recipe today, and enjoy the wonderful flavors and health benefits that come with every bite!
