Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Dijon Aioli

Introduction

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, especially among younger eaters, but when roasted to perfection, these little veggies transform into a delightful treat. My family, once skeptical about Brussels sprouts, now eagerly anticipates this dish whenever I make it. The combination of crispy, caramelized edges and the tangy Dijon aioli dipping sauce is irresistible. The Brussels sprouts are roasted until golden and crispy, giving them a satisfying crunch, while the Dijon aioli offers a creamy, zesty dip that complements the earthy flavors of the sprouts. This recipe has quickly become a staple in our home for its flavor and simplicity. It’s an easy way to elevate a dinner, making Brussels sprouts a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients

For the Crispy Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

For the Dijon Aioli:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to get the Brussels sprouts crispy.
2. Toss the Brussels Sprouts:
   Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the tough stem ends, then slice them in half. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper in a large bowl. Make sure they are evenly coated.
3. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
   Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, with the cut side facing down. This allows them to caramelize and crisp up nicely during roasting.
4. Roast the Brussels Sprouts:
   Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Shake the pan halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning. If desired, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar during the last 5 minutes of roasting for an extra layer of flavor.

Make the Dijon Aioli:

1. Mix the Aioli Ingredients:
   In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
2. Taste and Adjust:
   Taste the aioli and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more mustard or lemon juice for extra tanginess, or more garlic for a bolder flavor.

Serve the Dish:

Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and crispy, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve alongside the Dijon aioli for dipping. These Brussels sprouts are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a healthy snack!

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving: 1/4 of the recipe)

• Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
• Calories: 150 kcal
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

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Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

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How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: Serve these crispy Brussels sprouts as a delicious side to any main dish, from roasted chicken to grilled steak or baked fish.
• As an Appetizer: They are also perfect for sharing as an appetizer at your next gathering or dinner party.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve the Dijon aioli alongside for dipping, and consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra kick.
• Top with Fresh Herbs: For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the Brussels sprouts before serving.
• Add Parmesan: If you love cheesy flavors, consider grating some Parmesan over the Brussels sprouts in the last 5 minutes of roasting for a melty, savory topping.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts will yield the best results. Avoid older, rubbery sprouts that might not crisp up well.
2. Don’t Crowd the Pan: When roasting, make sure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer on the baking sheet with enough space between them. If they are crowded, they will steam instead of crisping.
3. Experiment with Vinegar: For added flavor, try drizzling balsamic vinegar or a flavored vinegar over the Brussels sprouts in the last few minutes of roasting.
4. Add Heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the Brussels sprouts before roasting, or stir a little Sriracha into the aioli for an extra zing.
5. Make the Aioli Ahead of Time: You can make the Dijon aioli up to a day in advance to save time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and stir before serving.

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Recipe Variations

• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the roasted Brussels sprouts for an extra layer of sweetness and acidity.
• Vegan Aioli: To make this recipe vegan, swap the mayonnaise for a vegan mayonnaise and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Cheesy Brussels Sprouts: Top the Brussels sprouts with shredded Parmesan or crumbled feta before roasting to add a salty, umami punch.
• Roasted Garlic Aioli: For a more garlicky aioli, roast a head of garlic and squeeze the cloves into the sauce for a sweeter, mellower flavor.
• Spicy Aioli: Add a tablespoon of Sriracha or hot sauce to the aioli for a spicy version that complements the crispy Brussels sprouts perfectly.

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Serving Suggestions

• With Roasted Meat: Serve these crispy Brussels sprouts with roast chicken, pork, or beef. Their crispy texture and tangy dipping sauce balance the richness of meat perfectly.
• In a Salad: Toss the crispy Brussels sprouts with some fresh greens like arugula or spinach, and drizzle with the Dijon aioli to create a simple yet satisfying salad.
• With Grains: Pair these Brussels sprouts with quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a light but filling meal.
• As a Snack: Serve them as a fun and healthy snack, especially with a dip like ranch or blue cheese dressing for a twist.
• With a Lemon Tahini Dressing: Try serving the sprouts with a lemon tahini dressing instead of the Dijon aioli for a creamy, plant-based option.

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Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover Brussels sprouts, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To keep them crispy, reheat the Brussels sprouts in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it will make them soggy.
• Freezing: While the Brussels sprouts can be frozen, they may lose their crispness after thawing. If you do freeze them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make this recipe without Dijon mustard?
   Yes, you can use yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard if you don’t have Dijon. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
2. How do I make the Brussels sprouts extra crispy?
   Make sure they are cut side down on the baking sheet and don’t overcrowd the pan. The oil helps them crisp up, so be generous with the olive oil.
3. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
   While fresh Brussels sprouts work best, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just be sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before roasting for the best texture.
4. Can I substitute the aioli with something else?
   Yes, you can substitute the aioli with any dipping sauce of your choice, like ranch dressing, tahini sauce, or even a simple garlic butter sauce.
5. Can I roast the Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
   Yes, you can roast them up to a day ahead of time and reheat them in the oven to regain some of their crispiness.
6. Can I use another vinegar instead of balsamic?
   Yes, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you don’t have balsamic. Each vinegar will give a slightly different flavor, so adjust to taste.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, the Brussels sprouts and aioli are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure the mayonnaise you use is gluten-free.
8. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add some red pepper flakes to the Brussels sprouts before roasting or mix some hot sauce into the aioli to give it a spicy kick.
9. Can I add cheese to the Brussels sprouts?
   Yes, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting for an added flavor boost.
10. Can I use olive oil spray instead of regular olive oil?
    Yes, you can use an olive oil spray for a lighter option, though using regular olive oil will give the Brussels sprouts a richer flavor.

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Conclusion

These Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Dijon Aioli are a fantastic addition to any meal, whether you’re serving them as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack. The Brussels sprouts are crispy and caramelized, with a rich and tangy aioli for dipping. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s an excellent way to introduce Brussels sprouts to picky eaters and impress guests at your next dinner party. Enjoy the crunchy, flavorful goodness!

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