Jeweltoned Brussels Sprouts Balsamic Cranberry Pecan Perfection
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever get bored of the same old side dishes for Christmas ? I know I do. These Jewel Toned Brussels Sprouts are a flavor explosion! Think sweet, tangy, and nutty all in one bite.
Brief Overview
This recipe isn't from a Michelin star restaurant, it is from my kitchen to yours. It's simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for Christmas.
It's quick, easy and ready in under an hour. This recipe yields 6-8 servings, perfect for your festive feast.
Main Benefits
Honestly, Brussels sprouts get a bad rap. But these are packed with vitamins and fiber. They're perfect for balancing out all those rich Christmas treats.
What makes this recipe special is the balsamic glaze recipe . It elevates the humble sprout to something truly amazing.
Get Ready to Roast!
So, are you ready to jazz up your Christmas vegetable sides ? I know I am. Let's talk ingredients.
Alright, let's talk ingredients and gear for the ultimate side dishes for christmas . You want to wow your family, right? No more boring, mushy sprouts! I promise this recipe will be a game changer.
We're making Jewel Toned Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic, Cranberry & Pecan Perfection. Honestly, the name alone sounds way fancier than it is.
It’s one of those easy christmas side dishes that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Okay, here's what you'll need. Remember, good quality ingredients make a difference, especially the balsamic!
- Brussels Sprouts: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Look for firm, bright green sprouts. Avoid any that are yellowing or have black spots. Trust me on this.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Extra virgin is always a good shout.
- Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g) . Don't skimp on the salt! It brings out the flavour.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1g) . Freshly ground is best, you know?
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (about 2 teaspoons). Fresh garlic makes a world of difference.
- Balsamic Vinegar: 1/2 cup (120ml) . This is KEY. A decent balsamic will give you that perfect tangy sweet depth. Cheap stuff just won't cut it for this balsamic glaze recipe .
- Maple Syrup: 2 tablespoons (30ml) (or honey). Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the balsamic.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Adds a lovely bit of tang and complexity.
- Dried Cranberries: 1/2 cup (50g) , roughly chopped.
- Pecan Halves: 1/2 cup (50g) , toasted and roughly chopped. Toasting is important for that nutty flavor. I’ve made it before forgetting the toasting, and, what a sad day!
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons (15g) , chopped (optional, for garnish). Adds a pop of freshness.
Seasoning Notes
This recipe hinges on the balsamic glaze recipe , it's not hard to make at all. It uses balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), and Dijon mustard.
Trust me, these flavours sing together! For flavour enhancers, garlic and balsamic are the superstars. I also would say that Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick.
If you're in a pinch, honey can replace maple syrup 1:1. Brown mustard can sub for Dijon, too.
Equipment Needed
Nothing too fancy here, thank goodness.
- Large Baking Sheet. Essential for roasting the sprouts.
- Parchment Paper (optional). Makes cleanup a breeze. I swear, it’s like a magic trick.
- Small Saucepan. For making that amazing balsamic glaze.
- Large Bowl. For tossing everything together.
Now you're ready to make some seriously festive side dishes ! These Brussels sprouts christmas are going to be a hit, I promise.
It's one of those holiday side dish ideas that feels special without being stressful. Plus, you can even make-ahead christmas sides by prepping the sprouts and making the glaze in advance.
Now, let’s get cooking!
Jewel Toned Brussels Sprouts: Balsamic, Cranberry & Pecan Perfection
Honestly, when I think of side dishes for Christmas , Brussels sprouts aren't usually the first thing that springs to mind, you know? They've had such a bad rap! But, trust me on this one.
This recipe totally transforms them. Forget those soggy, bitter sprouts of Christmases past. These are festive , flavorful, and maybe even.
.. elegant.
This is your chance to impress everyone with your Christmas vegetable sides skills. We're talking balsamic glaze recipe , tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans.
It's a party in your mouth, honestly. This recipe balances sweet, savory, and nutty to create the perfect festive Christmas side dish recipes .
It's a game changer! Let's dive in!
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission
First things first, let's get organised. Get all your ingredients out. Chop the Brussels sprouts halve them if they're small, quarter them if they're big.
Mince the garlic. Toast those pecans! Toasting them really brings out their flavour, and if you're anything like me, it'll stop you from eating them all before they make it into the dish.
Time saving tip : You can chop the sprouts a day ahead, honestly. Just keep them in an airtight container in the fridge.
It can become one of your go-to make-ahead christmas sides .
step-by-step: From Brussels Sprouts to Brilliance
- Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . This is crucial for roasting.
- Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Smells good already, right?
- Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Don't overcrowd, or they'll steam instead of roast!
- Roast for 20- 25 minutes , flipping halfway. You want them tender and slightly browned. Keep an eye on that color!
- While the sprouts roast, simmer balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard in a saucepan for 5- 7 minutes , or until thickened.
- Toss the roasted sprouts with the balsamic glaze. Coat them evenly.
- Add cranberries and pecans. Toss again.
- Serve immediately and watch everyone go "Wow!" with this easy christmas side dishes recipe.
Pro Tips: Secret Chef Moves
- Don't overcrowd that pan ! Seriously, this is the biggest mistake people make. Use two baking sheets if needed.
- Watch that glaze like a hawk. It can burn fast. You want it to coat the back of a spoon.
- Want a Christmas dinner sides vegetarian delight? Then you are in the right place.
Honestly, even if you think you hate Brussels sprouts, give this recipe a go. You might just surprise yourself. I'm not even kidding.
These holiday side dish ideas are just what you need to add a little something special to your table.
Recipe Notes for Cracking Christmas Side Dishes
Alright, before you dive headfirst into making these Jewel Toned Brussels Sprouts , let’s have a quick chat about some things I've learned over the years.
Honestly, a few little tweaks can make a huge difference!
Serving Suggestions: Make It Look Festive!
Presentation is key, especially when it comes to festive side dishes . For plating, think Christmas colors! A simple white dish lets those vibrant sprouts, cranberries, and pecans shine.
Sprinkle some extra toasted pecans and a few fresh cranberries on top for a "wow" factor.
For holiday side dish ideas , pair these Brussels sprouts christmas with roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a tangy cranberry sauce.
A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling cider is the perfect complement to the balsamic glaze.
Storage Tips: Prep Like a Pro
Got leftovers? No worries! Store these sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
You can also reheat them in a pan on the hob.
Freezing isn't ideal as it can make the sprouts a bit mushy, but if you must , let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
Variations: Customize to Your Taste
Got picky eaters or dietary restrictions? No sweat! For a vegan version, make sure you’re using vegan maple syrup. That’s it! This Christmas dinner sides vegetarian dish is naturally vegan otherwise.
If you like a bit of kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze recipe . For a citrusy twist, try adding a tablespoon of orange zest to the glaze.
These are super easy christmas side dishes that are really versatile, y'know? You can even swap pecans for walnuts or almonds.
Nutrition Basics: Good For You AND Delicious
Each serving (based on 8 servings) has roughly 200 calories , 4g protein , 12g fat , 20g carbs , 5g fiber , 10g sugar , and 200mg sodium .
Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this elegant christmas side dishes both delicious and nutritious!
So there you have it! Whether you're looking for Christmas side dish recipes to impress the in-laws or just wanting to jazz up your Christmas vegetable sides , these balsamic glaze recipe sprouts are a total winner.
Don't be scared to experiment, add your own spin, and have fun with it! And if you want to make-ahead christmas sides , the glaze can be made a day or two in advance! Go on, give it a go you've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these Brussels sprouts really going to be any good? My family usually turns their noses up at them!
Absolutely! This recipe transforms Brussels sprouts from a culinary chore to a Christmas highlight. The balsamic glaze and cranberries add a touch of sweetness and tartness that even the most ardent sprout hater will find hard to resist.
Think of it as a festive makeover for a much maligned vegetable, a bit like giving your Christmas tree a whole new set of baubles!
How can I prepare these Jewel Toned Brussels Sprouts: Balsamic, Cranberry & Pecan Perfection ahead of time to save time on Christmas day?
You can prep several components in advance. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also make the balsamic glaze and toast the pecans a day in advance.
Just remember to toss the sprouts with the glaze and other toppings right before serving to maintain their texture. It's like getting all your presents wrapped early, leaving you more time to enjoy the Christmas specials on telly!
What if I don't have all the exact ingredients? Are there any good substitutions for these side dishes for christmas?
No worries, a little Christmas improvisation is perfectly acceptable! If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds work wonderfully. Honey or Agave can easily replace the maple syrup in the glaze. If you're missing Dijon mustard, a mild brown mustard can step in.
The goal is deliciousness, not perfection, so just use what you've got! It's like singing a carol slightly off-key the spirit is what matters!
How do I store leftover Brussels sprouts and how long will they last?
Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll stay good for about 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave. But be warned, reheated sprouts are never quite as vibrant as freshly roasted ones, so best to just cook what you need!
It's like trying to re-wrap a gift perfectly after you've already opened it; it's possible, but never quite the same.
Can I make these Jewel Toned Brussels Sprouts vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily vegan friendly. The only ingredient you need to check is the maple syrup, as some brands may use animal products in their processing. Other than that, you're good to go! So all your vegan relatives can tuck in without worry happy days.
I am watching my weight over christmas, how can i reduce the calories?
The recipe is already relatively healthy, but you can trim those calories further! Reduce the amount of olive oil used for roasting and consider using a sugar substitute in the balsamic glaze. You can also reduce the amount of pecans or omit them entirely for a more calorie conscious side.
It's all about balance enjoy the festive season, but be mindful of those extra helpings!
Jeweltoned Brussels Sprouts Balsamic Cranberry P
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 200 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 5g |
