Are you ready to elevate your vegetable game? These Lemon Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts are quick, tasty, and perfect for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest, you can craft a dish that bursts with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, follow my easy steps to create your new favorite side dish. Let’s dig in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic elevates the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, creating a deliciously vibrant dish.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it a quick and hassle-free side dish for any meal.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and minerals, and roasting them brings out their unique flavor while keeping them nutritious.
- Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or toppings, like Parmesan cheese, to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– Zest of 1 lemon, preferably organic
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)
– Fresh parsley, roughly chopped, for garnish
I love using fresh, high-quality ingredients. They make all the difference. Start with 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Trim and halve each one to ensure even cooking. The next key ingredient is 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This adds richness and helps the sprouts roast perfectly.
Garlic is a must for flavor, so use 3 cloves, finely minced. Garlic and lemon zest from 1 lemon bring a bright taste. Use the zest of an organic lemon if you can for the best flavor.
Next, add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. It adds a zesty kick. A teaspoon of Dijon mustard ties everything together. Don’t forget salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
If you want an extra touch of luxury, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. It’s optional, but it adds a lovely creaminess. Finally, garnish with roughly chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
This simple list of ingredients pairs beautifully to create a tasty delight. The balance of flavors will leave you craving more!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for perfect roasting. The heat helps the Brussels sprouts caramelize and become tender.
Make the Flavor Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Mix until it looks creamy. This blend gives the sprouts a bright, zesty flavor.
Toss the Brussels Sprouts
Take 1 pound of trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts. Add them to the bowl with your flavor mix. Use a spatula or your hands to toss them. Make sure every sprout is coated well. This step is vital for flavor.
Prepare for Roasting
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking. Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer. Leave space between them to ensure even cooking.
Roast the Sprouts
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Roast the sprouts for about 20-25 minutes. Stir them halfway through. They should be golden brown and tender when done. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Add Parmesan (Optional)
If you want extra flavor, sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts about 5 minutes before they finish roasting. This will let the cheese melt slightly and add richness.
Cool and Garnish
Once the sprouts are roasted, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. This adds a nice color and fresh taste.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Roasting Brussels Sprouts
For the best results, choose fresh Brussels sprouts. Look for bright green ones with firm leaves. Trim the ends and slice them in half. This helps them cook evenly. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven gives those nice, crispy edges. Spread the sprouts out on the baking sheet. Don’t crowd them; they need space to roast well.
Adjusting Flavor Profile
You can change the flavor to fit your taste. Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes. For a sweeter taste, drizzle a bit of honey. If you enjoy tang, increase the lemon juice. The garlic can be swapped for shallots for a milder taste. Feel free to experiment with herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
These Brussels sprouts shine as a side dish. They pair well with roasted meats, like chicken or pork. You can also enjoy them as a main dish over rice or quinoa. For a fun twist, mix them into a salad. Add nuts or seeds for crunch. Don’t forget to garnish with lemon wedges for extra zing!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh Brussels sprouts and organic lemons. Fresh produce enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust the Roasting Time: Keep an eye on your Brussels sprouts while roasting. Depending on their size, you may need to adjust the cooking time to achieve the perfect golden brown color.
- Enhance the Flavor: Experiment with additional herbs such as thyme or rosemary in the flavor mixture for an extra layer of complexity.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the roasted Brussels sprouts right after roasting. They can lose their crispness if left to sit too long.
Variations
Adding Other Vegetables
You can make this dish even better by adding other veggies. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers work well. Just chop them into similar sizes as the Brussels sprouts. Toss them in the same lemon garlic mix. This adds color and flavor. Plus, it makes the dish more fun to eat. Roasting different veggies together gives you tasty bites of goodness.
Different Dressings and Seasonings
Feel free to change up the dressing. Try balsamic vinegar for a sweet twist. Or mix in some soy sauce for an umami kick. You can also use herbs like thyme or rosemary. These add a lovely aroma. If you want spice, add red pepper flakes. The options are endless! Each dressing or seasoning adds its own special touch. Experimenting keeps the dish fresh and exciting.
Vegan Options without Cheese
Want a vegan version? Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just sprinkle it over the sprouts before roasting. This keeps the dish rich and tasty. You won’t miss the cheese at all! Enjoy the same zesty flavors while sticking to your vegan diet.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your Lemon Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts, store any leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to let them cool down before sealing them up. This helps keep them from getting soggy.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your Brussels sprouts, use an oven or a skillet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. If using a skillet, add a little olive oil and warm them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to freeze your Brussels sprouts, do it right after cooking. Let them cool first. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, fresh sprouts tend to taste better. If you use frozen ones, thaw them first. Drain any excess water to avoid sogginess. Then, follow the same roasting steps as with fresh sprouts.
How do I prevent Brussels sprouts from being bitter?
To reduce bitterness, cut off the tough stems and remove any yellow leaves. Roasting them helps too. The high heat caramelizes their natural sugars. Adding lemon juice and garlic also brightens their flavor.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
These sprouts pair well with many dishes. Try them with roasted chicken, fish, or a grain salad. They also go great with pasta or in wraps. Their bright flavor complements rich meals nicely.
How long do roasted Brussels sprouts last in the fridge?
Roasted Brussels sprouts last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for best results. This helps keep them crispy and tasty.
This blog post covered everything you need to know about Lemon Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts. We explored the key ingredients, shared easy steps to prepare them, and provided tips for perfecting the roast. You can enjoy variations, like adding other veggies or going vegan. Lastly, we discussed storage and reheat options.
With these insights, I hope you feel ready to make this tasty dish a hit at your table. Enjoy your cookin
