There’s something truly exhilarating about transforming humble ingredients into a dish that bursts with flavor and flair. Just the thought of roasting Brussels sprouts fills my kitchen with the irresistible aroma of caramelization, and before you know it, your taste buds are eagerly anticipating a delightful experience. This Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe has become a staple in my home; it effortlessly elevates the classic vegetable into a sweet and tangy masterpiece that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing side at gatherings, these Brussels sprouts are drizzled with a luscious honey-balsamic glaze that dances on your palate. Plus, with just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen—leaving you more time to enjoy the company of friends and family. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get roasting!
Why are Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts a Game Changer?
Flavor Explosion: The honey-balsamic glaze creates a delightful balance of sweetness and tang, transforming ordinary Brussels sprouts into a sensational side dish.
Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule while delivering delicious homemade food.
Versatile Delight: Serve these sprouts as a side for any main dish, or enjoy them as a healthy snack—either way, they’re sure to impress!
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will be reaching for seconds with this irresistible glaze.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with essential nutrients, Brussels sprouts are a guilt-free addition to your meal.
So, if you’re exploring ways to elevate your veggie game, don’t miss out on trying these delightful sprouts!
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels sprouts – 1 lb, stems removed; these little green gems are packed with nutrients and flavor.
• Avocado oil – 1 tbsp; this oil has a high smoke point, making it perfect for roasting.
• Sea salt – ½ tsp; enhances the natural flavors of the sprouts.
• Freshly ground black pepper – ½ tsp; adds a touch of warmth and spice.
For the Balsamic Glaze
• Extra virgin olive oil – 2 tbsp; brings richness to the glaze and great flavor.
• Honey – 2 tbsp; this is the star ingredient that adds that sweet touch to your honey balsamic Brussels sprouts.
• Balsamic vinegar – 4 tbsp; the acidity balances the sweetness for a perfect glaze.
• Grated garlic – 2 cloves; infuses the sauce with a savory depth that complements the sweetness.
This harmonious mix of ingredients creates a sensational dish that turns humble Brussels sprouts into a culinary delight!
How to Make Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Brussels sprouts roast evenly, resulting in that golden-brown, crispy goodness we all love.
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Slice the Brussels sprouts in half and place them on a large baking sheet. This allows for a greater surface area to roast, enhancing their caramelization and flavor.
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Drizzle them with avocado oil and season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is key in elevating the natural taste of the sprouts.
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Toss to coat them well, then lay them out cut side down. This helps achieve that lovely crispiness on the cut side during roasting.
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Roast for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-browning.
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Prepare the glaze by setting a small saucepan over medium heat, then adding olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic. Stir them together with a whisk until combined.
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Simmer the mixture on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes. This will help meld the flavors together and create that delicious glaze.
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Remove the saucepan from heat and set the glaze aside until you’re ready to toss the sprouts.
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Toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with the balsamic sauce right after taking them out of the oven. This allows the warmth of the sprouts to soak up the flavors of the glaze perfectly.
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Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, and watch them disappear from the table!
Optional: Garnish with chopped walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners seamless! You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the balsamic glaze a few days in advance (up to 3 days) and store it in the fridge; just reheat gently before tossing with the roasted sprouts. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast the sprouts straight from the fridge for about 20 minutes until golden, then mix them with the warmed glaze. This way, you can enjoy delicious, homemade Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
Creating a hearty meal around these vibrant Brussels sprouts will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the sweet tang of the balsamic glaze, making each bite a comforting delight.
- Grilled Lemon Chicken: This dish brings zesty brightness that balances the sweetness of the sprouts, offering a lovely contrast of flavors and textures.
- Quinoa Salad: A light, nutty quinoa salad is an excellent companion, providing a refreshing crunch and a wholesome element to your plate.
- Pesto Pasta: The herby, garlicky richness of pesto-coated pasta complements the roasted sweetness perfectly while adding a satisfying chew.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing will offer a classic, bold flavor that elevates the meal while keeping it light and fresh.
- Roasted Salmon: The flaky texture and subtle omega-3 richness of salmon harmonize with the Brussels sprouts, creating a perfectly balanced dish that feels indulgent yet healthy.
- Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness mirrors the honey in the sprouts, creating a delightful symphony of flavors while adding vibrant color to your table.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and bubbly, this drink cuts through the richness of the meal and complements the dish’s sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Mousse: For a decadent finish, a light chocolate mousse will be the perfect sweet ending, contrasting with the savory elements of your meal while leaving everyone wanting more.
Expert Tips for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Perfectly Crispy: Ensure you space the Brussels sprouts well on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming rather than roasting, making them less crispy.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best flavor. Avoid pre-packaged sprouts, as they can lose texture and taste.
Balanced Flavor: Taste the balsamic glaze before adding it to the sprouts. Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or acidity with extra balsamic vinegar, personalizing the flavor to your preference.
Watch the Roasting: Keep a close eye on the sprouts in the last few minutes of roasting. Every oven varies, and you want them to be golden, not burnt!
Garnish Option: For added flavor and texture, consider sprinkling some toasted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, over the glazed Brussels sprouts before serving.
These tips will help you create the most mouth-watering Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts you’ve ever tasted!
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to personalize these delicious sprouts to match your taste and dietary preferences!
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Maple-Cinnamon: Swap honey for maple syrup and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor. The sweet and spicy combination is a delightful change.
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Garlic Parmesan: Toss in freshly grated Parmesan cheese right after glazing for a nutty richness that elevates the sprouts to new heights. The contrast between the cheese and glaze creates an irresistible treat.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the balsamic sauce for a pleasing heat that elevates the dish. Just a pinch can transform it into a spicy delight that leaves an impact!
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Balsamic Reduction: Reduce the balsamic vinegar in the glaze for an even thicker, richer flavor. This concentrated version will add an elegant touch to your sprouts and enhance their already fabulous taste.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the olive oil before whisking up the glaze. This aromatic twist adds a fresh garden flavor that pairs splendidly with the Brussels sprouts.
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Sweet Potato Addition: Toss some diced sweet potatoes along with the Brussels sprouts for a hearty, colorful side dish. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the sprouts beautifully, making it a filling option.
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Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the balsamic glaze for a bright, citrusy pop. This lively addition livens up the dish and adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness.
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Nutty Crunch: Top the finished Brussels sprouts with toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for an added crunch. This texture twist gives each bite a satisfying finish that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftover Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
Freshness Tip: Always try to consume your roasted Brussels sprouts fresh for the best taste, but storing them properly ensures they remain flavorful for later enjoyment!
Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for ones that are firm with bright green leaves. Avoid any that have yellowing or dark spots all over, as this indicates they are past their prime. Fresh sprouts should feel heavy for their size, indicating they’re full of moisture and flavor.
How long can I store leftover Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts in the fridge?
You can store leftover Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you are ready to enjoy them again, reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove to preserve their original texture and flavor.
Can I freeze cooked Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze cooked Brussels sprouts! First, spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid—this usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my Brussels sprouts are soggy after roasting?
Very good question! If your Brussels sprouts turn out soggy after roasting, it’s often due to overcrowding on the baking sheet or not allowing enough time for roasting. Ensure they are well spaced out to allow for proper air circulation. Also, turn up the oven temperature to about 425°F (220°C) for a crispier result and try roasting them for a few more minutes, checking frequently for doneness.
Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! To make these Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup. Both alternatives will provide the sweetness that makes this dish delightful while keeping it plant-based. This way, everyone at your table can enjoy these delectable sprouts!
Are there any allergies to consider with this recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains honey and nuts (if you choose to garnish with walnuts), so make sure to check for any honey allergies or nut sensitivities among your guests. The remaining ingredients are mostly vegetables and oils, which generally pose fewer allergy concerns, but it’s always good to double-check with your diners.
These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs should help you get the most out of this delicious dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Sweet and Savory Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the Brussels sprouts in half and place them on a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle them with avocado oil and season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Toss to coat them well, then lay them out cut side down.
- Roast for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the glaze by setting a small saucepan over medium heat, then adding olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and grated garlic.
- Simmer the mixture on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and set the glaze aside until you're ready to toss the sprouts.
- Toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with the balsamic sauce right after taking them out of the oven.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.