## Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pecans— Your New Favorite Side Dish
### Introduction
Brussels sprouts have come a long way from the much-dreaded vegetable of our childhood to the much-loved star of the food scene today. And this recipe for Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pecans showcases its robust flavor and versatility in the best way possible.
While roasted Brussels sprouts are delicious on their own, adding the sweetness of balsamic and the crunch of pecans takes this dish from simple to sublime. It’s guaranteed to steal the spotlight at your dinner table!
### Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s easy to prepare, packs a flavor punch, and is nutritious to boot, then you’ve hit the jackpot.
Roasting Brussels sprouts enhances their natural sweetness and adds a delightful crispness. Tossed with toasted pecans and drizzled with a balsamic glaze, these sprouts are a textural and an umami delight. They make a great side dish for all types of mains — from poultry to beef to fish — but are also hearty enough to be the star of a vegetarian meal.
### How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pecans
#### Ingredients
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
#### Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
3. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 15 minutes, then sprinkle the chopped pecans over the sprouts.
5. Continue roasting for another 10 minutes until the Brussels sprouts are golden and the pecans are toasted.
6. Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar and honey, if using. Toss to coat evenly.
7. Serve immediately and savor the taste!
### How to Serve Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pecans
These Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile—serve them as a hearty side for your roast chicken, steak, or fish dish. Additionally, they can also be the center of a vegetarian or vegan meal if you consider omitting the honey or replacing it with maple syrup.
### How to Store Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pecans
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, spread out on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
### Tips to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pecans
1. Make sure to dry your Brussels sprouts thoroughly after washing. This ensures that the sprouts get nice and crispy when roasted.
2. Don’t overcrowd your baking sheet. Overcrowding results in steaming instead of roasting.
3. Adjust the quantity of honey and balsamic vinegar according to your taste preference for a sweet-sour balance.
### Variations (if any)
You might want to try adding crumbled bacon or grated parmesan for more depth in taste while making Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pecans.
### FAQs
1. **Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?**
Yes, thaw them completely and pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe to ensure crispness.
2. **What other nuts can I use if I don’t have pecans at home?**
Walnuts or even almonds would be a great substitute for pecans in this recipe.
3. **Can I skip the honey?**
Yes, the honey can be omitted if you prefer a less sweet taste or replaced with maple syrup for a vegan version.