Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans

Introduction

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans is an elegant and flavorful side dish that perfectly combines savory, sweet, and tangy notes. This dish features crispy Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and a balsamic glaze, making it ideal for holiday feasts or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
• Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
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.
3. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
4. Make the Balsamic Glaze: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, heat the balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it reduces and thickens slightly. If using maple syrup or honey, stir it in at this point for added sweetness. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Add Cranberries and Pecans: Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large serving bowl. Toss in the dried cranberries and toasted pecans.
6. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts mixture and toss gently to coat.
7. Serve: Serve warm, garnished with optional crumbled goat cheese or feta for a creamy finish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey, or omit it if you prefer a tangier flavor.
• Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
• Cheese: Use Parmesan or blue cheese as an alternative to goat cheese or feta.
• Additions: Incorporate other roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots for a more substantial side dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in a microwave, though the Brussels sprouts may lose some of their crispiness.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
   • Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture, but frozen Brussels sprouts can be used if thawed and thoroughly dried.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the balsamic glaze a day ahead. Assemble the dish just before serving.
3. How can I make the glaze thicker?
   • Simmer the balsamic vinegar longer until it reaches the desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon.
4. Can I omit the pecans?
   • Yes, you can leave out the pecans or substitute them with another nut or seed.
5. What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
   • You can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor will be slightly different.
6. Is this dish suitable for vegans?
   • It is vegan if you omit the optional cheese garnish. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based.
7. Can I use other dried fruits?
   • Yes, dried cherries or raisins can be used in place of dried cranberries.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   • Yes, other cheeses like feta, blue cheese, or even shredded cheddar can be used according to your taste preference.
9. How do I ensure Brussels sprouts are crispy?
   • Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet and make sure they are not overcrowded to promote crispiness.
10. Can I add other vegetables?
    • Yes, adding other vegetables like carrots or parsnips can enhance the dish. Just ensure they are cut to similar sizes for even roasting.

Conclusion

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans offer a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that make it a standout side dish for any meal. The crispy Brussels sprouts paired with the rich balsamic glaze and crunchy pecans create a memorable dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday dinners. Enjoy this delicious, festive side dish warm, with optional garnishes to elevate its flavor even further.

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