How to Create Tangy Balsamic Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Brussels sprouts have come a long way from being one of those unpopular vegetables kids avoid. Today, they’re crispy, flavorful, and downright delicious, especially when cooked the right way. One of the tastiest ways to prepare them is by making tangy balsamic honey glazed Brussels sprouts. This dish is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, with crispy caramelized edges that make it irresistible.
If you’ve never tried cooking Brussels sprouts this way before, don’t worry—this recipe is super simple! Whether you’re making dinner for your family or just want a satisfying side dish, this sweet and tangy glaze will transform the humble Brussels sprouts into a star on your plate. Let’s dive into the details!
What You’ll Need:
Before we start cooking, gather your ingredients. For this recipe, you will need the following:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of Brussels sprouts (fresh is best, but frozen works too if you adjust the cooking time)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced or finely chopped (optional for extra aroma)
Tools:
- A baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula or tongs
Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Start by washing the Brussels sprouts. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Once they’re clean, pat them dry with a towel to remove any excess moisture—this helps them crisp up in the oven.
Next, trim the Brussels sprouts. Use a knife to cut off the tough stem at the bottom. Then, peel off any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Finally, slice the sprouts in half lengthwise. This step is key because halving them exposes the insides to the heat, making them caramelize beautifully.
Step 2: Season and Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, and then season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together so that each sprout is evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet, cut side down. Make sure they’re arranged in a single layer without overlapping. This allows them to roast evenly and get that golden-brown crispness. Pop them into the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Check them halfway through and give them a quick flip using a spatula or tongs.
You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn crispy and deep brown, and the insides are tender. Roasting is where all the magic happens, so be patient and let them develop that caramelized flavor.
Step 3: Make the Tangy Balsamic Honey Glaze
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, it’s time to whip up the glaze that’s going to make this dish truly special.
In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, if you’re using it. Mix everything well until you have a smooth sauce. Taste it and adjust if needed—you might want it a bit sweeter (add more honey) or tangier (add more balsamic vinegar).
For those who love garlic, sauté a minced garlic clove in a small pan with a touch of olive oil before adding the balsamic and honey mixture. This will give your glaze extra depth and aroma, but it’s totally up to you.
Step 4: Glaze the Brussels Sprouts
Once the sprouts are perfectly roasted, remove them from the oven and toss them back into your mixing bowl. Pour the glaze over them and gently toss everything until the sprouts are well-coated. The warm sprouts will soak up the delicious flavors of the glaze.
Alternatively, you can spread the glazed sprouts back onto the baking sheet and return them to the oven for 3-5 minutes. This step helps the glaze caramelize further for even more stickiness and flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Plate up your tangy balsamic honey glazed Brussels sprouts and watch them disappear in no time! This dish is best served warm, straight from the oven. Garnish with an optional sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or even a handful of grated Parmesan cheese for added flair.
These sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, salmon, or even as a hearty vegetarian main dish when served over quinoa or rice. They’re perfect for dinner parties, holiday meals, or even as a quick and healthy weeknight side.
Final Thoughts
Tangy balsamic honey glazed Brussels sprouts are proof that simple ingredients can deliver big flavors. With their crispy edges, sweet and tangy glaze, and tender texture, they’re irresistible to both kids and adults alike. The best part? They’re so easy to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and minimal effort.
So, the next time you need a quick dish that’s healthy, full of flavor, and guaranteed to impress, give this recipe a go. Your taste buds—and your dinner guests—will thank you! Happy cooking!
