Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Parmesan Recipe

Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts:

The key to preparing delicious roasted Brussels sprouts lies in selecting high-quality ingredients and understanding their role in the dish.

For this recipe, we’ll focus on the essential ingredients needed for a mouth-watering Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan dish.

Brussels Sprouts

• Freshness: Opt for fresh Brussels sprouts with tightly closed leaves and no signs of yellowing or damage.
• Size: Choose small to medium-sized sprouts, as they roast more evenly and quickly.
• Trimming: Remove any damaged or browned leaves from the base of each sprout, cutting off about 1 inch from the stem end.

Parmesan Cheese

• Quality: Select high-quality Parmesan cheese that’s rich in flavor and texture.
• Aging: Aged Parmesan is ideal for this recipe, as it has a nuttier, more complex flavor profile.

Oils and Spices

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil to add depth and richness to the dish.
• Salt: Unrefined sea salt or Himalayan pink salt work well for enhancing flavor without adding unwanted minerals.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle, peppery kick to the sprouts.

Other Ingredients

• Garlic: Mince a clove or two of garlic for added flavor and aroma.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and helps balance the flavors.

With these key ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan dish that’s sure to impress family and friends!

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

The key ingredient in this recipe is 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, which are a cruciferous vegetable that belongs to the same family as broccoli and cauliflower.

For this recipe, you will need to trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and then cut them in half. This will help to remove any tough or woody parts from the outside of the sprouts and also make it easier for them to roast evenly.

You can choose either the green or red variety of Brussels sprouts, depending on your personal preference and what is available at your local market.

Other Essential Ingredients

1. Parmesan Cheese: This classic Italian cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the roasted Brussels sprouts. Look for high-quality Parmesan that is freshly grated or shredded.
2. Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for roasting the Brussels sprouts, as it helps to bring out their natural sweetness and adds a rich, fruity flavor.
3. Salt and Pepper: These two pantry staples are used to season the Brussels sprouts before and after roasting, adding depth and balance to their flavor.
4. If you want to add a bit of extra flavor to your roasted Brussels sprouts, you can try using garlic powder, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick.

Remember that the quality and freshness of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor and texture of your final dish. Choose high-quality produce and use fresh, flavorful cheeses to get the best results from this recipe.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

The first step to making delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan is to gather all the necessary ingredients.

Olive oil is a crucial component in this recipe, and we need 2 tablespoons of it. It’s recommended to use high-quality olive oil that has a rich flavor, as it will enhance the taste of the Brussels sprouts.

However, some people might be wondering why olive oil is chosen over other oils like coconut or avocado oil. The reason is that olive oil has a distinct flavor profile that complements the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts and the nuttiness of Parmesan cheese.

In addition to olive oil, we’ll also need some salt to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. It’s essential to use Kosher salt or sea salt as they have a milder flavor than regular table salt and won’t overpower the taste of the Brussels sprouts.

We’ll also need some fresh black pepper to add a nice depth of flavor to the dish. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred over pre-ground pepper, as it has a more intense flavor and aroma.

• Salt and pepper to taste

Salt and pepper are two essential ingredients used to season and enhance the flavor of dishes, including the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan recipe.

Here’s what you need to know about salt and pepper in this context:

• **Salt**: Salt is a fundamental seasoning that adds depth, umami flavor, and helps to bring out the natural flavors of ingredients. When using salt in cooking, it’s essential to use high-quality salt, such as kosher salt or sea salt, which has a coarser texture and a more complex flavor profile than table salt.

• **Pepper**: Pepper is another essential seasoning that adds warmth, heat, and aroma to dishes. When using pepper in cooking, it’s crucial to use freshly ground black peppercorns, which have a more intense flavor and aroma compared to pre-ground or stale peppercorns.

In the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan recipe, salt and pepper are used to season the sprouts before roasting, as well as to enhance their flavor after they’re roasted. To use salt and pepper effectively in this recipe:

• **Add salt and pepper to taste**: When seasoning the Brussels sprouts with salt and pepper, start by using a light hand and adjusting to taste. You can always add more salt and pepper, but it’s harder to remove excess seasoning.

• **Use coarse salt and freshly ground pepper**: As mentioned earlier, use high-quality salt and freshly ground black peppercorns to get the most flavor out of your seasonings.

By using salt and pepper effectively in the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan recipe, you can elevate the flavors of this dish and create a truly delicious side dish or main course.

Instructions

Cooking the Brussels Sprouts:

To cook **Brussels Sprouts**, also known as _cabbages of the earth_, a cruciferous vegetable, follow these simple steps.

First, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 Celsius). This high temperature will help bring out the natural sweetness in the Brussels sprouts and give them a nice caramelized flavor.

Next, trim the ends of each _Brussels Sprout_ and remove any yellow or wilted leaves. You want to use fresh, green ones for this recipe.

Cut an **X** on the bottom of each Brussels sprouts to allow steam to escape during cooking. This step is essential to prevent them from bursting in the oven.

In a large bowl, toss the _Brussels Sprouts_ with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil until they are evenly coated. You can use more or less oil depending on your preference for crispiness.

Spread the **Brussels Sprouts** out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between them to allow for even cooking.

Roast the _Brussels Sprouts_ in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized. You can shake the pan halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

While the **Brussels Sprouts** are roasting, grate some Parmesan cheese on a microplane grater or in a fine grater. This will give you the perfect amount of cheese for topping your Brussels sprouts.

Once the _Brussels Sprouts_ are done cooking, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot. You can also add some chopped fresh parsley or lemon wedges on top for extra flavor and color.

Enjoy your delicious **Roasted Brussels Sprouts** with Parmesan recipe!

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

The first step in preparing this recipe involves setting the stage for cooking, which begins by preheating the oven to a specific temperature.

In this instance, we need to set the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, abbreviated as 200 degrees Celsius. It’s essential to understand that these two temperatures are equivalent and indicate the ideal heat level required for the subsequent steps in our recipe, specifically Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan.

Preheating the oven is crucial because it allows us to achieve a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process, which is vital for roasting vegetables like Brussels sprouts. By preheating, we ensure that when we insert the baking dish into the oven, the heat is evenly distributed and ready to cook the ingredients.

This step also gives us time to prepare any additional elements of our recipe, such as seasonings or garnishes, which can be added once the Brussels sprouts are in the oven. This attention to temperature allows for precise control over the final product’s texture, taste, and overall presentation.

• In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

The instructions provided for roasting Brussels sprouts with Parmesan are clear and concise, but can be further elaborated upon to ensure optimal results.

Firstly, it’s essential to select the right type of Brussels sprouts for roasting. Look for compact, firm sprouts that are heavy for their size. These will yield the best flavor and texture.

Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is necessary for achieving a caramelized exterior and a tender interior.

Now, let’s move on to the preparation of the Brussels sprouts. Trim off the stem ends and remove any damaged or discolored leaves. Cut each sprout in half or quarters, depending on their size.

Place the prepared Brussels sprouts in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss them until they are evenly coated, making sure every piece is well seasoned.

The amount of olive oil needed will depend on the quantity of sprouts you’re using. A good rule of thumb is to use about 2 tablespoons per pound of sprouts. You can adjust this to your taste, but be careful not to overdo it – too much oil can lead to a greasy finished product.

Some people like to add other seasonings or aromatics to their Brussels sprouts during roasting. Garlic, lemon zest, and chopped herbs are all great options. Simply sprinkle them over the sprouts along with the salt and pepper before tossing.

Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

While the sprouts are roasting, you can prepare your Parmesan topping. Simply grate some high-quality Parmesan cheese over the top of the sprouts during the last 2-3 minutes of roasting. The heat from the oven will melt the cheese and create a delicious, gooey crust.

Once the sprouts are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them hot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your roasted Brussels sprouts!

Cheese Topping Options

• Parmigiano-Reggiano: This Italian classic is a staple for a reason – its nutty, salty flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the Brussels sprouts.
• Cheddar: A mild or sharp cheddar can add a rich, creamy element to your roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Mozzarella: For a lighter, more refreshing take on this recipe, try topping your Brussels sprouts with melted mozzarella cheese.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Bacon or pancetta can add a smoky, savory element to your roasted Brussels sprouts. Simply chop it up and sprinkle it over the top along with the Parmesan cheese.
• If you prefer a crisper texture on your Brussels sprouts, try roasting them at a higher temperature (425°F or 220°C) for a shorter amount of time (15-20 minutes).
• Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasoning combinations. Try pairing the Brussels sprouts with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for added depth and complexity.

• Spread out in a single layer on a baking sheet.

To prepare the **Brussels Sprouts** for roasting, begin by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Next, cut off the ends of the sprouts and **halve or quarter** them, depending on their size. This will help them roast more evenly in the oven.

Place the **halved sprouts** in a bowl and drizzle with **olive oil**, tossing to coat them evenly. You can also add any desired seasonings, such as **salt**, **pepper**, or **garlic powder**, at this stage.

Line a large baking sheet with **aluminum foil** or parchment paper for easy cleanup, and arrange the sprouts in a single layer on it. This will ensure they roast evenly and prevent them from steaming instead of browning.

If you have any particularly large sprouts, you can trim them into smaller pieces to fit them onto the baking sheet without overcrowding it.

Finally, sprinkle some **Parmesan cheese** over the sprouts for added flavor and texture. You can also add some **toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh herbs**, like parsley or thyme, if desired.

Now that your **Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan** are prepared, it’s time to roast them in the oven! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and proceed with the rest of the recipe instructions to achieve perfectly roasted sprouts with a crispy exterior and tender interior.

Finishing Touches

Adding Parmesan Cheese:

The final touches to our **Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan** recipe are essential in bringing out the full flavor and texture of this dish.

First, let’s talk about the importance of Parmesan Cheese. This Italian staple is a key ingredient in many recipes, including our Roasted Brussels Sprouts. It adds a salty, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of the sprouts.

To add Parmesan Cheese to your dish, simply sprinkle it over the top of the roasted sprouts. You can use freshly grated or pre-grated Parmesan, whichever is more convenient for you.

How to Sprinkle Parmesan Cheese

1. Sprinkle a generous amount of Parmesan Cheese over the top of the roasted sprouts. You can use about 1/4 cup per serving, depending on your personal preference.
2. Gently toss the sprouts to distribute the Parmesan evenly. This will help prevent clumps and ensure everyone gets a good sprinkle.

Some other options you might consider adding to your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan include:

• Chili Flakes: Add a spicy kick to your dish by sprinkling some chili flakes over the top of the sprouts.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add brightness and balance out the richness of the Parmesan.

Remember, the key is to taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly. You want your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan to be a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

• Roast for 2025 minutes or until tender and caramelized.

The final stage of preparation for the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan recipe involves adding the finishing touches, which are crucial to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

One essential step in this process is to roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven for a specific amount of time. To achieve tender and caramelized results, it’s recommended to roast them for 2025 minutes, or approximately 33 hours and 45 minutes, at a moderate temperature of around 400°F (200°C).

However, it’s worth noting that this extended roasting time is not the only way to achieve perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts. A more practical approach would be to roast them for shorter periods, such as:

• 25 minutes at 425°F (220°C) – This results in tender and slightly caramelized sprouts.
• 40-50 minutes at 375°F (190°C) – This yields a combination of tender and crispy textures, with a hint of caramelization.

Regardless of the roasting time chosen, it’s essential to keep an eye on the Brussels sprouts during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. They should be golden brown and slightly caramelized, with a tender but still crisp texture in the center.

To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the roasted Brussels sprouts immediately after they come out of the oven. The heat from the sprouts will melt the cheese slightly, creating a rich and savory topping that complements the dish perfectly.

• Sprinkle with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

The final touches to this delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan recipe involve a sprinkle of grated cheese, which adds a salty, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch.

For the finishing touch, simply sprinkle about 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the roasted Brussels sprouts. This will not only add flavor but also help to balance out the bitterness of the sprouts.

To ensure that you have a good amount of Parmesan cheese, you can grate it yourself from a block of Parmigiano-Reggiano. You’ll know you have enough when you see a layer of grated cheese on top of the sprouts.

Here’s a trick to get the perfect amount: use a fine grater or a microplane to grate the cheese over the sprouts. This will allow you to control how much cheese you’re using and ensure that it’s evenly distributed.

Some other options for adding a finishing touch include:

• a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary leaves
• a squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Ultimately, the key is to taste and adjust as you go. Experiment with different combinations of ingredients to find your perfect balance of flavors.

By adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese as the finishing touch, you’ll elevate this simple recipe into a delicious side dish that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.

• Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

To complete the dish and add a touch of elegance to the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan, serving it immediately after roasting is essential.

This means that once the sprouts have been roasted to perfection in the oven, they should be removed promptly from the heat source and placed onto a serving platter or individual plates.

Allowing the dish to sit for too long can cause the Brussels sprouts to lose their crisp texture and become soggy, which would detract from the overall dining experience.

By serving the dish immediately, you will be able to appreciate the perfectly roasted texture of the Brussels sprouts, which should still have a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining tender within.

Additionally, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese can add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal to the dish.

This can be done by sprinkling shaved or grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the roasted Brussels sprouts, either in a single layer or in small dollops to create a decorative pattern.

The extra Parmesan cheese will not only enhance the flavors of the dish but also add a delightful textural element, providing a satisfying crunch to each bite.