Transform the humble Brussels sprout into a culinary masterpiece with this simple yet elegant roasting method. This recipe elevates the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while creating perfectly crispy edges and tender centers. Whether you’re a longtime Brussels sprouts enthusiast or a skeptic ready to give them another chance, this foolproof method will deliver restaurant-quality results right from your home oven.
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
- 500g (1 pound) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (approximately 9g), minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 2 tablespoons/30ml)
- Salt to taste (approximately 1/2 teaspoon/3g)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste (approximately 1/4 teaspoon/0.5g)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Wash and trim Brussels sprouts
- Cut each sprout in half lengthwise
- Mince garlic cloves
- Time needed: 10 minutes
2. Season and Combine
- Place halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl
- Add olive oil and minced garlic
- Season with salt and black pepper
- Toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly
- Time needed: 3-5 minutes
3. Arrange and Roast
- Transfer to a large baking sheet
- Arrange in a single layer, cut-side down
- Ensure pieces aren’t overcrowded
- Roast for 20-25 minutes
- Flip halfway through cooking
- Time needed: 25 minutes
4. Finish and Serve
- Remove from oven when golden brown and crispy
- Drizzle with fresh lemon juice
- Adjust seasoning if needed
- Serve immediately
- Time needed: 2 minutes
Total time: 40-42 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Vitamin C: 96mg
- Vitamin K: 177mcg
- Folate: 89mcg
- Potassium: 342mg
- Iron: 1.2mg
Pro Tips for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Size and Cutting
- Choose sprouts of similar size for even cooking
- Cut larger sprouts into quarters
- Keep smaller ones whole if needed
- Ensure cut surfaces are flat for better caramelization
- Temperature and Timing
- Don’t rush the preheating process
- Maintain high temperature throughout cooking
- Look for dark golden edges before flipping
- Test tenderness with a fork
- Space and Distribution
- Use multiple baking sheets if needed
- Avoid overlapping pieces
- Rotate pans if using multiple racks
- Leave space between sprouts for proper crisping
Variations and Substitutions
- Mediterranean Style
- Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan before serving
- Include 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
- Finish with balsamic glaze
- Asian-Inspired Version
- Replace lemon juice with rice vinegar
- Add 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds
- Drizzle with soy sauce
- Spicy Variation
- Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Include 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Finish with hot honey
- Herb-Enhanced
- Add fresh thyme sprigs while roasting
- Include 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
- Finish with fresh parsley
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my Brussels sprouts not crispy?
Overcrowding the pan or using too much oil can steam rather than roast the sprouts. Ensure they’re well-spaced and pat them dry before seasoning.
Can I prepare these in advance?
While best served immediately, you can trim and halve the sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How do I know when they’re perfectly done?
Look for deeply golden brown edges, crispy outer leaves, and tender centers when pierced with a fork. The cut sides should be caramelized.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh sprouts are recommended for optimal crispiness, but if using frozen, thaw completely and pat very dry before roasting. Cooking time may need to be extended.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Preparation
- Clean and trim sprouts up to 24 hours ahead
- Store prepped sprouts in an airtight container
- Keep minced garlic separately
- Have lemon ready but juice just before serving
Storage
- Refrigerate leftover cooked sprouts for up to 3 days
- Store in an airtight container
- Note that crispiness will diminish over time
Reheating Methods
- Oven (Preferred Method)
- Preheat to 180°C (350°F)
- Spread on baking sheet
- Heat for 5-7 minutes
- Finish with fresh lemon juice
- Stovetop
- Heat in a skillet over medium heat
- Add a small amount of oil
- Cook until warmed through
- Avoid overcooking
These golden roasted Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish for any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Their versatility allows them to pair beautifully with everything from roasted meats to vegetarian main courses. The key to success lies in proper preparation and attention to detail during roasting.
Remember that fresher sprouts will yield better results, so look for firm, bright green heads with tightly packed leaves. When selecting your sprouts, choose ones that are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
