Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans is a delightful side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. This recipe combines the earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts with sweet dried cranberries and crunchy pecans, all enhanced by a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday dinners, this dish is not only visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavors: The combination of sweet and savory ingredients makes this dish a standout at any gathering.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip this up in no time.
• Healthy Side Dish: Packed with nutrients, Brussels sprouts are a great choice for a wholesome addition to your plate.
• Versatile Pairing: This dish complements various main courses, from turkey to vegetarian options.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the Brussels sprouts in advance and roast them just before serving.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Large bowl
• Small saucepan
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting, ensuring that the Brussels sprouts cook evenly.
• Parchment paper or foil: Makes cleanup easy by preventing sticking and burning on the baking sheet.
• Large bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together thoroughly before roasting.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for reducing the balsamic vinegar into a flavorful glaze.

Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Balsamic Glaze

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)

For Mixing In

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped

Optional Garnish

• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta

How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

In a large bowl:
* Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
* Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes:
* Shake the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking.
* Look for golden brown edges indicating they are crispy.

Step 4: Make the Balsamic Glaze

While the Brussels sprouts are roasting:
* Heat balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat.
* Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it reduces and thickens slightly.
* Stir in maple syrup or honey if using. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once roasted:
* Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl.
* Toss in dried cranberries and toasted pecans.

Step 6: Drizzle with Glaze

Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the mixture:
* Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Serve warm:
* Garnish with optional crumbled goat cheese or feta if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans make a delightful addition to any meal. Their unique flavors and textures pair well with various dishes, enhancing your dining experience.

As a Holiday Side Dish

• Perfect for festive gatherings, these Brussels sprouts add a pop of color and flavor to your holiday table.

With Grilled Chicken

• The sweetness of the cranberries complements the savory notes of grilled chicken, creating a balanced dish.

On a Salad

• Toss the roasted Brussels sprouts into a mixed green salad for added crunch and depth of flavor, making it more exciting.

As an Appetizer

• Serve them warm as finger food at parties. Guests will love their crispy texture and rich taste.

With Quinoa or Rice

• Pair them with quinoa or rice for a wholesome meal. The grains absorb the balsamic glaze beautifully.

How to Perfect Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans

To ensure your Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select smaller sprouts that are firm and vibrant green for better flavor and texture.
• Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure even cooking and achieve that desired crispiness.
• Spread Evenly on the Baking Sheet: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; give each sprout enough space to roast properly.
• Shake Halfway Through Cooking: Toss the sprouts during roasting to promote even browning on all sides.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste before serving. Adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or honey if desired.
• Garnish with Fresh Ingredients: Enhance presentation and flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts pair well with many side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the tangy balsamic glaze beautifully.
3. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes for a light and flavorful side.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add freshness and color to your plate.
5. Quinoa Salad: A citrusy quinoa salad brings brightness and pairs nicely with roasted veggies.
6. Caramelized Carrots: Sweet caramelized carrots offer an additional layer of sweetness that complements the dish perfectly.
7. Cauliflower Rice: A healthy alternative that soaks up flavors while keeping the dish light.
8. Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins add a delightful texture contrast to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: If you place too many Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet, they will steam instead of roast. Ensure they are in a single layer for crispy results.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking and soggy sprouts. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before roasting.
• Skipping the Tossing Step: Neglecting to toss the Brussels sprouts with oil and seasonings can result in bland flavor. Mix them well for even coating and taste.
• Using Unseasoned Nuts: Unsalted or unseasoned pecans may not add the desired flavor contrast. Toast them lightly before adding for enhanced richness.
• Ignoring the Balsamic Glaze Reduction: Skipping this step means missing out on concentrated flavor. Take time to simmer until it thickens for the best taste.
• Not Serving Immediately: Allowing roasted Brussels sprouts to sit too long can make them lose their crispiness. Serve them warm for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans

• Place cooled Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed, but note that this may affect crispiness.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, fresh cranberries can be used, but they will need to be sweetened during cooking due to their tartness.

What can I substitute for pecans?

You can replace pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.

How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?

They should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when perfectly roasted.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it just before serving for best results.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans is a delightful side dish that brings together flavors and textures beautifully. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any special meal. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or using different fruits!