Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Magic

There’s something magical about Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans that makes my taste buds do a little happy dance. Picture this: tender Brussels sprouts, caramelized to perfection, mingling with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries and the crunchy goodness of pecans. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, creating a delightful atmosphere that makes everyone wonder what’s cooking. It’s like a cozy hug for your palette, perfect for holiday gatherings or just a Tuesday night treat.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family. My little nephew looked at me as if I had conjured up some culinary sorcery. “Auntie, are these magic sprouts?” he exclaimed, eyes wide in disbelief. Since then, Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans has become our go-to side dish for any occasion—thanksgiving dinners, casual get-togethers, or even when I want to impress friends without breaking a sweat.

When I first served these delightful sprouts at a family potluck, they disappeared faster than my uncle’s famous barbecue ribs—talk about a hit!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts; they should feel heavy for their size and smell fresh.

• Balsamic Vinegar: A good quality balsamic adds depth; opt for one that’s thick and syrupy for the best results.

• Cranberries: Dried cranberries work best here; look for unsweetened varieties to balance the flavors.

• Pecans: Toasting them brings out their nutty flavor; choose raw pecans for maximum freshness before roasting.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish; it also helps achieve that desirable golden brown color during roasting.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors; don’t skip these staples!

• Maple Syrup (optional): A drizzle adds extra sweetness; use organic maple syrup for a natural touch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans Magic

For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab your trusty baking sheet and line it with parchment paper—it makes cleanup a breeze!

Prep the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim off any yellowed leaves and cut them in half from top to bottom to ensure even cooking.

Toss with Olive Oil: In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re well-coated for optimal roasting.

Add Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the oiled Brussels sprouts, tossing everything together until they’re evenly coated. The aroma will be absolutely intoxicating!

Roast Away: Spread the Brussels sprouts onto your prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and tender on the inside.

Add Cranberries and Pecans: Five minutes before they’re done roasting, sprinkle dried cranberries and chopped pecans over the top. This gives them just enough time to warm up without losing their crunch.

Serve Hot: Once roasted to perfection, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a side dish or even as a snack—they’re that good!

With each bite of these Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans Magic, you’ll experience a delightful interplay of sweet and savory flavors that make you rethink how you enjoy vegetables! Whether you’re hosting dinner guests or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dish is sure to impress—even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts, roast them at 400°F while tossing in cranberries halfway through cooking. The pecans can be added during the last five minutes for optimal crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or add some feta cheese for a creamy twist. You can even sprinkle on some chili flakes for a spicy kick if desired.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, keeping that crispy goodness intact.

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my family’s holiday gatherings when these sprouts disappeared faster than Santa on Christmas Eve!

FAQ

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Frozen Brussels sprouts can be used, but fresh ones yield better texture and flavor.

How do I know when they are done cooking?

Brussels sprouts are done when they are golden brown and fork-tender, usually around 25-30 minutes.

What can I serve with Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These delicious sprouts pair well with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian platter.