If you’re looking for a flavorful, healthy, and visually delightful dish to bring to the table, look no further than these Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, providing a festive and wholesome addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or simply need a side dish for your weeknight dinner, these roasted Brussels sprouts will easily earn their place as a crowd favorite.
Brussels sprouts have often been underappreciated, but they are making a comeback thanks to modern cooking techniques that showcase their versatility. The addition of honey gives the sprouts a beautiful caramelized exterior, while the crunchiness of pecans and the subtle sweetness of dried cranberries add a pleasing contrast to the taste and texture. With just a few ingredients, you can create an impressive dish that will delight your family and friends.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries. From detailed preparation instructions, cooking time, and serving tips to nutritional information and benefits, we have it all covered.
Ingredients
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- Salt and pepper, to taste
These ingredients are all easy to find, and they each contribute to the unique flavor profile of this dish. Let’s explore how to combine them for a fantastic result.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
The minimal prep time required makes this dish especially convenient when you want a quick, flavorful side that doesn’t compromise on taste or health benefits.
Directions: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating the oven ensures that the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and helps with the caramelization process.
- Wash and Halve the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under running water. Make sure to remove any wilted or damaged outer leaves. Using a sharp knife, trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut each one in half.
- Season the Sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of honey, salt, and pepper. Mix until the sprouts are evenly coated. This combination of honey and olive oil is what will help the sprouts develop their rich, roasted flavor.
Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the Brussels sprouts evenly in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t too crowded, as this will help them crisp up properly.
- Roast the Sprouts: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, stir the Brussels sprouts to ensure they roast evenly. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to be tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, with a golden caramelized finish.
Step 3: Add Pecans and Cranberries
- Mix in Pecans and Cranberries: Once the Brussels sprouts are beautifully roasted, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped pecans and 1/4 cup of dried cranberries over the Brussels sprouts. The warmth of the sprouts will slightly toast the pecans and soften the cranberries, enhancing their flavors.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve While Warm: Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans and cranberries to a serving platter. This dish is best enjoyed warm, when all the flavors are well-balanced and fresh. The sweetness from the honey and cranberries, the nuttiness of the pecans, and the natural earthiness of the Brussels sprouts create a delightful medley of flavors.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Sugars: 10 g
Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber. Adding pecans boosts healthy fats, while cranberries contribute antioxidants.
Tips for Making Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best results. They should be firm, bright green, and free from dark spots.
- Avoid Overcrowding: To achieve that perfect crispy texture, make sure the Brussels sprouts are arranged in a single layer. Overcrowding the baking sheet will cause the sprouts to steam instead of roast.
- Add Extra Flavor: You can customize this dish by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar for an extra punch of flavor.
Benefits of Eating Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a nutrient powerhouse, full of health benefits that can support overall wellness:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Brussels sprouts are packed with antioxidants, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- High in Fiber: The fiber content in Brussels sprouts promotes a healthy digestive system and helps to lower cholesterol.
- Good Source of Vitamin C: Vitamin C is important for immune system function, skin health, and iron absorption.
- Supports Bone Health: Vitamin K found in Brussels sprouts is essential for bone health and plays a role in proper blood clotting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can make Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries in advance. You can roast the Brussels sprouts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, then add the pecans and cranberries.
2. Can I Use Maple Syrup Instead of Honey?
Absolutely! If you prefer the taste of maple syrup or want a vegan option, feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup. The maple syrup will provide a slightly different flavor but will still create a beautiful caramelization.
3. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
4. What Main Dishes Pair Well with This Side?
This dish pairs well with many main courses. It’s especially good alongside roast chicken, grilled salmon, or vegetarian casseroles. Its flavors are versatile enough to complement both meat and plant-based dishes.
Conclusion
Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries is an easy yet elegant dish that captures a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts combined with the sweetness of honey and dried cranberries, and the crunch of pecans, make it a well-rounded side that will impress any crowd.
Not only does this recipe taste fantastic, but it also provides plenty of nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re serving it during a festive holiday gathering or simply adding more vegetables to your weekday dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the wholesome, flavorful goodness it brings to your table!
Additional Tips for a Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts Dish
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients, like toasted pumpkin seeds or crumbled goat cheese, to give the dish an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Over a Grain: To turn this side dish into a complete meal, serve the roasted Brussels sprouts over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, adding extra protein and making it more filling.
Roasting vegetables is an easy way to add depth and flavor to any meal, and this honey-roasted version of Brussels sprouts is a shining example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly spectacular.
