Looking for a fresh and tasty side dish? Try my Lemon Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts! These small veggies pack a big flavor punch. With zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and a hint of sweetness, they’re the perfect addition to any meal. Plus, they’re easy to make, healthy, and sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into this savory delight and create a dish you’ll want to serve again and again!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Zesty Flavor: The combination of lemon and garlic brings a bright, fresh taste that elevates the natural nuttiness of Brussels sprouts.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in just 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Health Benefits: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and nutrients, making this dish a healthy side option for any meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup, and add or omit the Parmesan cheese for a personal touch.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
I love using fresh Brussels sprouts for this recipe. The vibrant green color brightens any meal. You will need about one pound of Brussels sprouts. Trim them and cut them in half. This helps them roast evenly.
Next, you will need three tablespoons of olive oil. This oil adds a rich flavor and helps with roasting. Then, grab four cloves of garlic. Mince them well to release their strong taste.
Now, the star of this dish: lemon! Use the zest and juice from one lemon. This will give your sprouts a bright, fresh flavor. If you like a touch of sweetness, add one teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple addition boosts the overall flavor. If you want to make it cheesy, consider adding a quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese. It melts beautifully and adds a nice finish.
Lastly, don't forget fresh parsley! Chopped parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. These ingredients come together to create a lovely dish. Each bite of lemon garlic roasted Brussels sprouts is a savory delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This warm temperature helps the Brussels sprouts cook evenly. Preheating is key to getting that nice, crispy texture.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Next, take 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Trim off the tough ends and cut them in half. This helps them cook faster and soak up flavors better.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the halved Brussels sprouts with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic, the zest of 1 lemon, and the juice of that lemon. If you like a hint of sweetness, add 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. Then, sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything well to coat the sprouts evenly.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Don’t crowd them; this ensures they roast properly. Place the sheet in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, stir them to help them brown evenly. Look for a golden brown color and crispy edges.
Add Cheese and Garnish
When they are done roasting, take the Brussels sprouts out of the oven. If you want, sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top while they are still hot. This lets the cheese melt a bit. Finally, garnish with fresh, chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your savory delight!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Roast
To get that perfect roast, start with fresh Brussels sprouts. Trim and halve them for even cooking. Coat them well in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread them out on the baking sheet. If they touch, they won't brown well. Roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway for a crisp outside.
Balancing Flavors
This recipe shines with lemon and garlic. The lemon zest brings brightness, while the juice adds tang. Garlic gives depth and warmth. For a hint of sweetness, add honey or maple syrup. It balances the sour notes from the lemon. Taste as you mix. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate.
Serving Suggestions
These Brussels sprouts are great as a side dish. They pair well with grilled chicken or fish. For a vegetarian meal, serve them with quinoa. Top with grated Parmesan for added creaminess. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. They are best served hot, right from the oven!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh Brussels sprouts for the best flavor and texture. They should be firm and vibrant in color.
- Don’t Skip the Honey: Adding a touch of honey or maple syrup balances the acidity of the lemon, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Ensure Even Roasting: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote even roasting. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Add a Kick: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Variations
Adding Different Cheeses
You can change the flavor by adding cheese. Parmesan gives a nice, salty taste. Try other cheeses too, like feta or goat cheese. These will add creaminess and tang. Just sprinkle the cheese on top while the sprouts are hot. This way, it melts perfectly.
Spice It Up with Ingredients
Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also mix in some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. If you like more zest, try adding lemon pepper. These spices will make your dish exciting and full of flavor.
Vegan Modifications
To make this recipe vegan, skip the cheese. Use nutritional yeast instead. It gives a cheesy taste without dairy. You can also add a bit of coconut aminos for a sweet, umami flavor. This way, you keep the dish plant-based and still delicious.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After you cook lemon garlic roasted Brussels sprouts, let them cool. Store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to enjoy these sprouts later, do not add cheese until you reheat them. The fresh taste will stay intact this way.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your Brussels sprouts, first let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1 hour. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you want to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
To reheat lemon garlic roasted Brussels sprouts, use the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes. This will help them regain their crispy texture. You can also reheat them in the microwave. However, they may not be as crispy. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking often. Enjoy the deliciousness again!
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. They save time and are easy to find. However, they may not get as crispy as fresh ones. To use, thaw and drain them first. Then follow the same steps in the recipe. This will help keep some texture.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. All the ingredients are safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Just check the labels for any packaged items, like Parmesan cheese. Ensure they are marked gluten-free if needed. Enjoy your meal without worry!
What to serve with lemon garlic roasted Brussels sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Try serving them alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. They make a great side for quinoa or rice bowls. You can also add them to a salad for extra flavor. They add a tasty crunch and a burst of lemon!
This blog post offered a simple path to delicious lemon garlic roasted Brussels sprouts. We discussed key ingredients, clear steps, and helpful tips to enhance your cooking. You can even try various cheese and spice options.
In the end, roasted Brussels sprouts are a tasty side dish. With the right prep and flavors, you can create a dish everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking and share it with friends!
