Brussels sprouts might not always get the spotlight, but this recipe changes the game. Roasting them in a balsamic glaze brings out natural sweetness, while a little honey helps them turn gorgeously golden. For a finishing touch, toasted almonds add irresistible crunch. This dish is easy to whip up, and it’s perfect for both casual family dinners and holiday feasts.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your Brussels sprouts by trimming off the ends and cutting them in half lengthwise. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until you have a smooth, well-combined mixture. Stir in the salt and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the Brussels sprouts, tossing them gently to ensure each piece is coated. The glaze should cling to the sprouts, enhancing their edges and infusing them with flavor.
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts turn crisp on the edges and lightly caramelized. Check them halfway through roasting and give the sprouts a quick flip to promote even cooking. While they’re roasting, place your sliced almonds in a small dry skillet and toast over medium heat, stirring often. Continue until the almonds are fragrant and just lightly browned, then remove them from the heat.
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, transfer them to a serving bowl and shower them with the toasted almonds. The sweet balsamic glaze and crunchy almonds come together to create a supremely satisfying side dish or light lunch option.
This recipe is a keeper for anyone looking to elevate simple vegetables into something special. Sweet & Tangy Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Almond Crunch hits all the right notes: sweet, savory, and full of texture. It’s a wonderful choice for those seeking a healthier side, since Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients and fiber.
If you prefer different flavors, you can swap the almonds for pecans or stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a savory twist. No matter how you serve them, these Brussels sprouts will be a tasty hit on your table.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
