Ingredients
What You’ll Need
For this easy roasted Brussels sprouts recipe, you will need:
- 2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes (for some heat)
- Optional: some grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs for garnish
You may also want to have some aluminum foil and a baking sheet on hand to make roasting the Brussels sprouts easy and mess-free.
Make sure you have all of these ingredients in your pantry before starting to cook. Fresh garlic is preferred, but if you don’t have any, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar instead.
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
The ingredients used in this Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe are straightforward and easily accessible in most supermarkets. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
Trimming the Brussels sprouts is an essential step to ensure they cook evenly and quickly. To trim them, remove any damaged or discolored leaves from the outside of each sprout. You can also cut off the stem end, making sure not to cut too deeply into the core.
The rest of the ingredients are minimal, which makes this recipe a great option for those who want to add some flavor to their Brussels sprouts without overcomplicating things:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Remember that the quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor and texture of your finished dish. Fresh Brussels sprouts with vibrant green color are ideal for this recipe.
2 tablespoons olive oil
The choice of ingredients plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect taste and texture of roasted Brussels sprouts. In this recipe, the primary ingredient is the Brussels sprouts themselves, which should be fresh and of high quality.
For the purpose of roasting, it’s essential to select Brussels sprouts that are compact and have a vibrant green color. The size may vary depending on personal preference; some people enjoy larger, more robust sprouts, while others prefer smaller ones with a milder flavor.
The other key ingredient is olive oil, which serves as the primary source of moisture for the roasting process. In this recipe, we recommend using 2 tablespoons of olive oil. However, feel free to adjust the amount according to your personal taste preferences or dietary requirements. You can also experiment with different types of oil, such as avocado or grapeseed oil.
In addition to olive oil, you may choose to add other ingredients to enhance the flavor and aroma of your roasted Brussels sprouts. Some popular options include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and lemon juice. These seasonings can be added in moderation to avoid overpowering the natural taste of the Brussels sprouts.
When selecting olive oil, it’s essential to consider the flavor profile you desire for your roasted Brussels sprouts. Some common types of olive oil include:
- Kalamata: A rich, full-bodied oil with a fruity and slightly smoky flavor
- Nicotiana: A lighter, more delicate oil with hints of grassy notes
- Arbequina: A mild, buttery oil with a subtle sweetness
Ultimately, the type and quality of olive oil you choose will significantly impact the flavor and aroma of your roasted Brussels sprouts. Experiment with different options to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
Salt, to taste
- The ingredient “salt, to taste” refers to a fundamental seasoning used to enhance the flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Salt is a crucial component in many recipes, as it helps to bring out the natural flavors of other ingredients and adds depth to dishes.
- When using salt to taste, it’s essential to remember that the amount required may vary depending on personal preference and the overall balance of flavors desired in the dish.
- In the context of roasted Brussels sprouts, a moderate sprinkling of salt can help to balance their earthy sweetness and bitterness, while also enhancing their texture.
Here’s how to incorporate “salt, to taste” into your Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe:
- Begin by trimming the ends off of each Brussels sprout and cutting them in half lengthwise.
- Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Pour the garlic-salt mixture over the Brussels sprouts, tossing to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle additional salt to taste over the Brussels sprouts, taking care not to over-season.
Continue with the recipe as instructed, roasting the Brussels sprouts in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
Pepper, to taste
The term “to taste” when used in a recipe, such as “Pepper, to taste,” implies that the cook should add an amount of pepper based on their individual preference for how much seasoning they want in their dish.
When using “pepper, to taste” in a recipe like the Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe, it means that you should sprinkle a small amount of pepper over the Brussels sprouts while they are roasting. You can start with a small amount and adjust as needed based on your personal preference for how peppery you want the dish to be.
The goal is to add just enough pepper to enhance the flavor without overpowering it. Some people prefer a subtle hint of pepper, while others like a more pronounced flavor.
Here are some general guidelines for using “pepper, to taste”:
- Add a small amount (about 1/8 teaspoon) as you start roasting the Brussels sprouts. This will give you a baseline of flavor that you can adjust later.
- Taste the Brussels sprouts periodically while they are still roasting and add more pepper as needed to achieve your desired level of seasoning.
- Remember, it’s always easier to add more pepper than it is to remove excess pepper once it has been added. Start with a small amount and adjust accordingly.
The type of pepper you use can also make a difference in the flavor of your dish. Black pepper is a classic choice for roasted Brussels sprouts, but you can also experiment with other types of peppers such as white pepper or even freshly ground peppercorns.
Optional Ingredients
The ingredients for this easy roasted Brussels sprouts recipe are quite simple and can be found in most supermarkets.
You will need:
- 1 pound of fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For a bit more flavor and spice, you can add the following optional ingredients:
- Red pepper flakes
- Ground cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Diced jalapeño peppers
- Lemon juice or zest
- The key to this recipe is to use high-quality ingredients and not to overcook the Brussels sprouts.
By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and healthy side dish that complements any meal.
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
To elevate the flavor of your Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts, you’ll want to choose some aromatic and savory herbs that complement the natural taste of the sprouts. One of the most popular options for this recipe is fresh thyme.
Thyme has a slightly minty, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts. To use it in your recipe, simply chop about 1/4 cup of fresh thyme leaves and add them to the mixture along with the other ingredients.
Rosemary is another popular choice for roasted Brussels sprouts, and for good reason. Its piney flavor adds a nice depth and complexity to the dish without overpowering the other flavors.
When using rosemary in your recipe, be sure to use only the leaves and stems of the plant, as they are more flavorful than the woody stalks. Like thyme, chop about 1/4 cup of fresh rosemary leaves and add them to the mixture for a delicious twist on this classic side dish.
Here’s how you can incorporate your herbs into the recipe:
- Add the chopped herbs to the olive oil along with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon zest in step 1 of the recipe. This will allow them to infuse their flavors into the dish from the beginning.
- Alternatively, you can sprinkle the chopped herbs over the Brussels sprouts during the last few minutes of roasting. This way, the heat from the oven will help release the fragrant oils in the herbs and carry them deep into the vegetable.
The key is to taste as you go and adjust the amount of herbs according to your preference. You can always add more herbs if needed, but it’s harder to remove excess herbs from the dish once they’re added.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
When it comes to adding flavor and texture to your Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe, ingredients play a crucial role.
Key Ingredients
- Parmesan Cheese: The star of the show is undoubtedly the Parmesan cheese. In this recipe, we’re using 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to add a salty, nutty flavor and a sprinkle of umami goodness.
This type of cheese is a hard, aged Italian cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a rich, fruity flavor and a crumbly texture that pairs perfectly with the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts.
Grated Parmesan cheese is essential in this recipe because it melts slightly when cooked, creating a delicious, cheesy crust on the outside of the Brussels sprouts. This not only adds flavor but also helps to balance out the bitterness of the vegetables.
Other Ingredients You’ll Need
In addition to Parmesan cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients for this Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe:
- Brussels sprouts: Fresh or frozen, these are the main attraction of your dish.
- Olive oil: Used to toss and coat the Brussels sprouts with before roasting.
- Salt and pepper: To season and enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Optional: garlic, red pepper flakes or lemon wedges: For added flavor and texture.
Remember to adjust the amount of ingredients according to your personal taste preferences and the number of servings you’re preparing.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Roasting
To achieve perfect roasted Brussels sprouts, follow these step-by-step instructions.
Select a bunch of fresh Brussels sprouts and trim the stems to remove any tough or damaged leaves.
Remove any yellow or wilted leaves from the sprouts, as these can be bitter and unpleasant in texture.
Rinse the sprouts under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture from interfering with roasting.
Cut the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise through their centers. This will help them cook more evenly and promote browning on the cut side.
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or dried thyme to give your Brussels sprouts extra flavor.
Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss them to coat evenly with the olive oil mixture. Make sure each sprout is coated on both sides, but avoid overcrowding the bowl as this can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. You may need to use multiple sheets depending on their size and the number of sprouts you’re working with.
Roast the Brussels sprouts in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. This will help achieve even browning and crispiness on all sides.
To check if the sprouts are cooked to your liking, remove one from the oven and let it cool slightly before checking its texture and color. If they’re tender but still a bit crunchy around the edges, they’re done!
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
To begin with, preheating the oven to a precise temperature is crucial for achieving optimal results in cooking, especially when it comes to roasting vegetables such as Brussels sprouts.
The instruction to preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) indicates that this temperature is considered ideal for bringing out the natural sweetness in the Brussels sprouts and caramelizing their exterior while still retaining a tender texture within.
When preheating the oven to this specific temperature, it’s essential to ensure that the oven has reached the correct temperature before proceeding with placing the Brussels sprouts inside. This can be verified by using an oven thermometer to check the internal temperature of the oven.
In addition to ensuring the correct temperature, preheating the oven also allows for even cooking and browning of the vegetables. By heating the oven to a uniform temperature throughout, it ensures that the heat is distributed evenly, resulting in consistently cooked Brussels sprouts with minimal risk of burning or undercooking.
The importance of accurate temperature control cannot be overstated when it comes to roasting vegetables like Brussels sprouts. A slightly higher or lower temperature can significantly impact their texture and flavor, potentially leading to an unpleasant or unappetizing result.
Cut the Brussels sprouts in half.
To complete this task, follow these steps:
- First, select a knife and hold it securely in your dominant hand. For cutting vegetables like Brussels sprouts, a sharp knife is essential to prevent accidents.
- Gently place the Brussels sprouts on a stable surface, making sure they don’t roll around while you’re working with them.
- Position the knife over one of the Brussels sprouts and carefully cut through it vertically, creating two halves. Be cautious not to press too hard, as this can cause the sprout to break apart unevenly.
Alternatively, if you find cutting the sprouts in half to be too tricky, consider slicing them into thin wedges or even leaving them whole for roasting.
For optimal flavor and texture, roast your Brussels sprouts at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, tossing them occasionally until they reach your desired level of caramelization and tenderness.
Note that it’s essential to check on the sprouts regularly while they’re roasting to ensure they don’t burn. If you notice any signs of burning or overcooking, remove them from the oven immediately to prevent further damage.
Place them cutside up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In order to properly prepare and cook the Brussels sprouts, it’s essential to follow these specific instructions for arranging them on a baking sheet.
The first step involves placing the cut side up on a baking sheet. This means that the flat end of each Brussels sprout should be facing upwards towards the top of the baking sheet. It’s crucial to ensure that they are not overlapping or crowded, as this can affect their even cooking and prevent them from roasting properly.
The next step is to line the baking sheet with parchment paper. This non-stick surface will help prevent the Brussels sprouts from sticking to the pan while they’re roasting in the oven. It also makes cleanup a breeze once they’re cooked and ready to be served.
By following these simple instructions, you’ll be able to create a beautifully presented dish of roasted Brussels sprouts that are sure to impress your family and friends. The key is to take your time and ensure that each Brussels sprout is arranged properly on the baking sheet before moving on to the next step in the recipe.
Drizzle olive oil over the sprouts and sprinkle salt, pepper to taste.
To prepare this simple and delicious Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the sprouts cook evenly and at the right temperature.
- Next, trim the ends off each Brussels Sprout by cutting them off with a knife. Remove any damaged or discolored leaves, as they can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Place the trimmed sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can fit multiple rows if needed, just make sure to leave some space between each sprout.
- Drizzle olive oil over the sprouts and sprinkle salt to taste. You can also add pepper or other seasonings if you prefer. The amount of seasoning is up to your personal preference.
- Cook the sprouts in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized. Stir them occasionally during cooking to ensure even browning.
- Once cooked, remove the Brussels Sprouts from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. You can serve them as a side dish or add them to your favorite recipes for added flavor and nutrition.
Key Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Brussels Sprouts
- Salt
- Pepper
Tips and Variations
- To add some extra flavor, toss the sprouts with minced garlic or lemon juice before roasting.
- You can also roast the sprouts in a skillet on the stovetop if you prefer a more tender texture.
- For a crispy exterior and tender interior, try roasting the sprouts at a higher temperature (425°F/220°C) for a shorter amount of time (15-20 minutes).
If using optional ingredients, sprinkle chopped herbs or Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the sprouts.
The final step in preparing the delicious Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe involves adding a touch of extra flavor and texture, if desired. This is where optional ingredients come into play. To take your roasted Brussels sprouts to the next level, consider sprinkling chopped herbs or Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Chopped herbs can add a bright, fresh flavor to the dish that complements the earthy sweetness of the Brussels sprouts. Popular herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary are great options for adding depth and complexity to your roasted vegetables. Simply sprinkle them over the sprouts in an even layer before serving.
For an extra burst of umami flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the Brussels sprouts. The salty, nutty taste of the Parmesan will enhance the natural sweetness of the sprouts and add a satisfying finish to the dish.
If you choose not to use optional ingredients, don’t worry – your roasted Brussels sprouts will still be delicious! The recipe’s simple combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper brings out the natural flavors of the sprouts. But adding chopped herbs or Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish to new heights and make it a standout side or main course.
Preparation Tips
For the Best Results
To achieve the best results with an easy roasted Brussels sprouts recipe, preparation is key.
Here are some valuable tips to get you started:
- Select fresh Brussels sprouts for roasting as they will yield a more even cooking result and retain their flavor better. You can choose either green or red Brussels sprouts, depending on your personal preference.
- Wash the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt, debris, or loose leaves.
- Cut off the tough ends of each Brussels sprouts. This will help them cook more evenly and reduce cooking time.
- Cut the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise. This will expose their inner layers, allowing for better caramelization during roasting.
- In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the cut Brussels sprouts. Toss them gently to coat them evenly with the oil.
- Add salt and pepper as desired. You can also sprinkle any additional seasonings or herbs you like on top of the Brussels sprouts, such as minced garlic, dried thyme, or paprika.
- Toss the Brussels sprouts gently to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a large baking sheet. This will promote even cooking and prevent overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). Depending on your preference for doneness, they should be tender and caramelized within 20-25 minutes.
Fresh Brussels sprouts are essential for roasting – use frozen or wilted ones at your own risk.
If you’re planning to roast Brussels sprouts, it’s essential to use fresh and high-quality vegetables to achieve the best results. Freshness plays a significant role in bringing out the natural sweetness and flavor of Brussels sprouts during roasting.
Using frozen or wilted Brussels sprouts can result in a disappointing dish with a less-than-desirable texture and flavor. The cell structure of the vegetable breaks down when it’s not fresh, leading to an unappealing consistency that’s often mushy and soggy.
Frozen Brussels sprouts might be okay if they’re thawed properly before roasting, but even then, their texture may not be as desirable as fresh ones. On the other hand, wilted or old Brussels sprouts are a definite no-go for roasting.
So, to get the best results from your roasted Brussels sprouts recipe, make sure to choose the freshest and plumpest Brussels sprouts you can find. Look for firm, compact sprouts with bright green leaves and a vibrant color. Avoid any sprouts that are limp or have visible signs of wilting.
When selecting fresh Brussels sprouts, consider the seasonality and origin of the crop. In general, Brussels sprouts that are harvested during the cooler months (October to February) tend to be sweeter and less bitter than those harvested in warmer months.
Lastly, store your Brussels sprouts properly to maintain their freshness. Keep them refrigerated at a temperature below 40°F (4°C), and make sure they’re not exposed to direct sunlight or heat sources that can cause them to spoil quickly.
By choosing the freshest and best-quality Brussels sprouts for roasting, you’ll be able to achieve a deliciously caramelized exterior and a tender, slightly sweet interior – the perfect combination that will elevate your roasted Brussels sprouts recipe to new heights!
Roasting time will vary depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts.
To achieve perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts, it’s essential to understand that roasting time will vary depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts. Here are some preparation tips to help you get started:
Selecting the right size: Choose Brussels sprouts that are similar in size so they roast evenly.
Trimming and halving: Trim off any damaged or discolored leaves, then cut them in half lengthwise to expose the core. This will help them cook more evenly.
Remove the core (optional): If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the core from each sprout. Simply cut it out and discard or save for another use.
Toss with oil and seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the trimmed Brussels sprouts with enough olive oil to coat them evenly. Add your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder, and toss again to distribute them evenly.
Spread out in a single layer: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy cleanup. Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer, cut side up, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Roasting Time Guidelines
- Small Brussels sprouts (1-2 inches in diameter): 15-20 minutes
- Medium Brussels sprouts (2-3 inches in diameter): 20-25 minutes
- Larger Brussels sprouts (3+ inches in diameter): 25-30 minutes
Keep an eye on your Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting, as they can quickly go from perfectly cooked to burnt. Use a fork to check for tenderness – if it slides in easily, they’re done!
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