Looking for a side dish that’s both tasty and easy to make? Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts are your answer! This recipe combines sweet and tangy flavors for a delightful twist on classic Brussels sprouts. I’ll share all the tips you need, from choosing the freshest sprouts to perfecting the roast. Let’s dive into this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet honey and tangy Dijon mustard create a perfect balance that enhances the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts.
- Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it a go-to side dish for any meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
- Healthy Ingredients: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and nutrients, and the addition of walnuts adds healthy fats, making this dish nutritious as well as tasty.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether served at a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, these honey mustard Brussels sprouts complement a variety of main dishes beautifully.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish. Choosing fresh ones is key. Look for bright green sprouts with firm leaves. Avoid any that look wilted or yellow.
Tips for Selecting Fresh Brussels Sprouts
– Choose sprouts that feel heavy for their size.
– Look for tight, compact leaves.
– Smell them; they should have a mild, fresh scent.
– Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter.
Substitutions for Honey and Feta
If you need a honey substitute, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Both give a nice sweetness. For feta, you can use goat cheese or skip it altogether for a dairy-free option. These swaps keep the dish tasty and fun.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Instructions
To start, gather your ingredients. You need:
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This gives your sprouts a nice roast. Next, in a large bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Now, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Toss them well in the honey mustard mix. Make sure each piece gets coated. This step is key for flavor.
Roasting Procedures
Spread the coated Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange them in a single layer to roast evenly.
Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Stir them halfway through cooking. This helps them cook evenly. You want them tender and caramelized.
In the last five minutes, sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the sprouts. This adds crunch and flavor. When they finish roasting, take them out and let them cool slightly.
If you want, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. It adds a rich, savory taste. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these honey mustard Brussels sprouts hot. They pair well with meats or as a main dish. You can also enjoy them on a salad. For extra flavor, drizzle more honey mustard dressing on top.
This dish is not just tasty; it’s also colorful and inviting. Enjoy the mix of flavors and textures!
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts
To roast Brussels sprouts perfectly, start with fresh ones. Choose sprouts that are firm and bright green. Trim the ends and cut them in half for even cooking. Toss them in a mix of honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and vinegar. This blend adds great flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet. Make sure they have space; crowded sprouts won’t roast well. Roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to get them golden and crispy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not trimming the sprouts. This can lead to tough leaves. Another mistake is not using enough oil. The oil helps them brown and adds flavor. Also, avoid cooking them too long. Overcooked sprouts can become mushy and lose their taste. Always check them with a fork. They should be tender but not falling apart. Lastly, don’t forget to season! A pinch of salt and pepper can make a big difference.
Enhancing the Flavor Profile
To enhance the flavor, try adding garlic or onion. These add depth and warmth. You can also mix in spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick. If you like nuts, sprinkle in some pine nuts or almonds. They add crunch and richness. For a creamy touch, crumbled feta cheese works well. It gives a nice tang. Lastly, don’t skip the fresh parsley. It brightens up the dish and adds color. Enjoy experimenting with these ideas!
Pro Tips
- Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts with tightly packed leaves for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to add more honey or even a splash of maple syrup to the dressing.
- Experiment with Nuts: Try substituting walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor and crunch.
- Serving Suggestions: These Brussels sprouts pair well with grilled chicken or salmon, making them a versatile side dish for any meal.
Variations
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
You can make this dish vegetarian or vegan easily. To keep it vegetarian, just skip the feta cheese. For a vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup. Maple syrup gives a nice sweetness and works well with mustard. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish!
Adding Other Vegetables
Feel free to mix in other veggies. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even cauliflower are great choices. Just cut them to the same size as the Brussels sprouts. You can toss them in the honey mustard mixture too. This adds color and more flavors to your dish.
Alternative Dressings and Toppings
You can switch up the dressing if you like. Try balsamic vinegar or a lemon vinaigrette. Both add a nice zing. For toppings, consider adding crispy bacon bits or toasted pine nuts. Each choice adds a unique twist to this classic side.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep your Honey Mustard Brussels sprouts fresh, let them cool first. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you can enjoy them later without worry.
How to Reheat Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts
Reheating these sprouts is easy. You can use the oven or the microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. For the microwave, place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for one to two minutes, checking often. This keeps them warm and tasty.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze them, follow these steps. First, allow the sprouts to cool completely. Then, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about one hour until they are firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove excess air and seal tightly. They will last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above, and they will still taste great!
FAQs
How do I make honey mustard dressing from scratch?
To make honey mustard dressing, mix three parts honey with two parts Dijon mustard. Add two tablespoons of olive oil and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Stir well until it’s smooth. This dressing works great with Brussels sprouts, adding a sweet and tangy kick.
Can I use other types of mustard?
Yes, you can use different types of mustard. Yellow mustard gives a milder taste. Spicy brown mustard adds a bold flavor. Whole grain mustard gives a nice texture. Choose what you like based on your taste or what you have in your kitchen.
What are the health benefits of Brussels sprouts?
Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins. They are high in vitamin K, which is good for bones. They also contain vitamin C, which supports the immune system. Brussels sprouts have fiber, helping with digestion. Plus, they are low in calories, making them a healthy choice.
We covered the key ingredients and how to choose fresh Brussels sprouts. I shared steps for prep and roasting, plus serving ideas. We explored tips to make your dish perfect, discussed common mistakes, and suggested ways to enhance flavor. I also discussed variations for vegetarians and storage tips for leftovers.
Brussels sprouts can be tasty and healthy. With these tips, you can make a great dish every time. Happy cookin
