Name: Sweet and Tangy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts to Impress
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved); 2 tbsp Olive oil (or avocado oil); 1 tsp Salt (adjust according to taste); 1 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1/4 cup Balsamic vinegar (or white balsamic); 2 tbsp Honey (or maple syrup for vegan option); 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp Water (to thin the glaze); 1/2 cup Chopped pecans or walnuts (or almonds omit for nut-free); 1/4 cup Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

As I was rummaging through my kitchen one chilly evening, I spotted a bag of Brussels sprouts lingering in the corner, their potential just waiting to be unleashed. With the promise of transforming this often-underappreciated veggie into something spectacular, I couldn’t resist creating my Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. This easy recipe not only elevates Brussels sprouts to a whole new level with a delightful glaze but also ensures a fast prep time, making it the perfect addition to either a busy weeknight dinner or a fancy gathering. The balance of sweet honey and tangy balsamic creates a delicious taste that even the pickiest of eaters can’t resist. So why not make tonight the night you add this vibrant and flavorful dish to your table? What would you serve these beauties with?

Why are Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts irresistible?

Transformative Flavor: Experience the delightful balance of sweet honey and tangy balsamic that turns Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping dish.
Quick Prep: Enjoy a speedy 30-minute recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or harmonious dinner parties, allowing you to savor gourmet taste without the fuss.
Customizable: Mix things up! From adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick to garnishing with nuts or Parmesan, the options are endless.
Diet-Friendly: Satisfy your vegetarian guests effortlessly with a dish that’s both healthy and indulgent, rich in vitamins and full of flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your friends and family—these Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts appeal to all, no matter their taste buds! Add them to your table alongside favorites like Garlic Butter Honey or Lemon Honey Glazed dishes for a meal that shines!

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

For the Sprouts
• Brussels sprouts – Use 1.5 lbs, trimmed and halved for the best texture and flavor.
• Olive oil – This adds richness and helps crisp the sprouts; avocado oil is a great substitute.
• Salt – Enhances the sweetness of the honey balsamic glaze; adjust according to taste.
• Black pepper – Freshly ground adds depth; a pinch goes a long way in flavoring!

For the Glaze
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced for a delightful aromatic flavor; roasting them with the sprouts is optional for extra sweetness.
• Balsamic vinegar – 1/4 cup brings the essential tangy-sweet balance; white balsamic is a milder alternative.
• Honey – 2 tablespoons for natural sweetness; consider maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon adds a lovely tang and enhances the glaze’s depth.
• Water – 1 tablespoon to thin the glaze as needed for the perfect consistency.

For Garnishing
• Chopped pecans or walnuts – These add delightful crunch; almonds work well too or you can omit them for a nut-free dish.
• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle of this adds a fresh touch and brightens the presentation.

Feel free to dive into the cooking experience, and remember, these Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts will surely steal the show!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare Brussels Sprouts
Begin by washing 1.5 pounds of Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the tough ends and remove any discolored outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half or in quarters if larger. Pat them dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel, ensuring moisture is removed for maximum crispiness.

Step 2: Roast Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Toss the prepared Brussels sprouts in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and tender.

Step 3: Make Honey Balsamic Glaze
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the honey balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of water. Simmer over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has slightly thickened and aromatic.

Step 4: Combine and Serve
Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, transfer them to a large serving bowl. Drizzle the honey balsamic glaze evenly over the sprouts, tossing gently to coat every piece thoroughly. If desired, garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts and fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation. Serve immediately and bask in the delightful flavors of your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts!

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Variations

Feel free to make this delicious recipe your own and explore new flavors!

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes before roasting for a delightful heat that balances the sweetness of the glaze. The warmth enhances the flavor and brings the dish to life.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts before serving. The cheese adds a savory depth that complements the honey and balsamic flavors beautifully.
Cranberry Sweetness: Toss in some dried cranberries before serving for a bright pop of sweetness and chewy texture. They’ll create a lovely contrast with the savory sprouts, making each bite a delightful surprise!
Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts and add crispy fried onions on top. This provides a satisfying crunch without the allergens, making it perfect for a crowd.
Zesty Citrus: Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving to brighten the flavors and cut through the richness of the glaze. It adds a refreshing twist that awakens the palate!
Garlic Lovers: For extra flavor, roast a few extra cloves of garlic alongside the Brussels sprouts. The caramelized garlic will infuse sweetness and aroma, enhancing the overall dish.
Maple Fusion: Swap the honey for maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness. This variation brings a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the balsamic glaze.
Asian Infusion: Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari along with sesame seeds as a garnish. This will give your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts an Asian-inspired twist, combining sweet and savory elements beautifully.

With so many ways to customize, you can create a unique version that suits your taste buds! Pair these versatile sprouts alongside dishes like Honey Butter Chicken to create a delightful meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are fantastic for meal prep! You can clean, trim, and cut 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 honey balsamic glaze and store it separately for up to 3 days in the fridge; just give it a gentle reheat before drizzling over the roasted sprouts. When you’re ready to serve, roast the prepared sprouts and toss them with the glaze as directed in the recipe. This method not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also ensures you enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right at home!

Helpful Tricks for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Crispiness Check: Ensure Brussels sprouts are thoroughly dried after washing. Moisture can lead to steaming instead of the desired crispiness when roasting.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t crowd the baking sheet; this can cause uneven cooking and lead to softer sprouts. Give them space to caramelize beautifully!
Glaze Perfection: Keep an eye on the honey balsamic glaze while simmering. Stir occasionally and adjust sweetness or tanginess according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding extra seasonings like garlic powder or fresh herbs while roasting for an added depth of flavor in your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator but reheat in the oven instead of the microwave. This maintains their delicious crispiness!

Storage Tips for Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and tasty.

Freezer: If you’d like to freeze them, place the cooled sprouts in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, as this preserves the crispiness of your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy them cold as a salad topping or warm as a flavorful side dish to your meals!

What to Serve with Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Creating the perfect meal alongside these delightful Brussels sprouts calls for balance and harmony in flavors.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken pairs beautifully, bringing a savory contrast to the sweet tang of the sprouts. The crispy skin complements the sprout’s texture.
Grilled Salmon: The richness of grilled salmon enhances the vibrant honey balsamic flavors, making for a delightful seafood experience. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for brightness!
Quinoa Salad: This nutty and fluffy salad adds a wholesome base that harmonizes with Brussels sprouts, offering fresh, crunchy veggies for a well-rounded dish.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort; they soak up the exquisite honey balsamic glaze, making every bite a satisfying indulgence. Who doesn’t love a fluffy side?
Toasted Almonds: A sprinkle of toasted almonds brings a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that elevates your Brussels sprouts to new heights.
Dry Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon complements the sweet undertones of the glaze, enhancing the overall dining experience with depth and richness.

Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green. Avoid any that appear yellowed or have dark spots all over, as these indicate overripeness. Freshness is key for achieving the best flavor and texture in your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts!

How should I store leftovers of Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
Very! To keep your leftover Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat them in the oven to maintain their delightful crispiness. Just pop them in at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Can I freeze Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
Definitely! To freeze your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, first allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.

What should I do if my Brussels sprouts are not crispy?
Make sure to check a couple of key points! First, ensure your Brussels sprouts are thoroughly dried after washing; moisture will lead to steaming instead of roasting. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet—you want to give them ample space to roast evenly and caramelize. If they’re still not crispy after roasting, try increasing the oven temperature slightly or extending the roasting time to achieve that perfect crunchy exterior.

Are there any dietary considerations I should take into account?
Great question! If you’re cooking for someone with nut allergies, simply omit the chopped pecans or walnuts when garnishing your Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. Additionally, for those following a vegan diet, substitute honey with maple syrup in the glaze for a deliciously sweet option that aligns with their dietary needs. Always feel free to ask about any specific allergies before serving!