Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish: Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans! I can’t even begin to express how much I adore this combination. Picture this: the earthy, nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts mingling with the sweet-tart pop of cranberries and the crunchy goodness of toasted pecans. It’s like a little party for your taste buds! I often whip this up for holiday gatherings, and it never fails to impress. The vibrant colors and delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen just make everything feel so festive and special.
Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners where laughter fills the air and everyone eagerly awaits the food. The balance of flavors in this dish makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a casual weeknight meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s a simple yet elegant side that elevates any plate and brings joy to the table!
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delicious dish, and I promise, it’s worth every bit of effort! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved – Look for bright green sprouts that are firm to the touch. Give them a good rinse to wash away any dirt.
- 1 cup dried cranberries – These add a delightful sweetness and chewiness that pairs so beautifully with the Brussels sprouts. I love using unsweetened or lightly sweetened ones!
- 1 cup pecans, chopped – Feel free to toast them lightly beforehand for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. They really bring this dish to life!
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – This helps the Brussels sprouts roast beautifully and enhances their flavor. A good quality olive oil makes a difference!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season! A touch of salt and freshly cracked pepper elevates everything.
These simple yet vibrant ingredients come together to create a side dish that’s not just tasty but also packed with flavor. So let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making these Brussels sprouts with cranberries and pecans! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed by how delicious it turns out. Follow along, and soon you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, we need to preheat that oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for roasting! A hot oven means crispy, golden Brussels sprouts that are just bursting with flavor. So, go ahead and get that oven warmed up while you prep the veggies!
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Now, grab your trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts and toss them in a large bowl. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and sprinkle on salt and pepper to taste. I like to use my hands to give them a good mix, making sure every sprout is coated in that lovely olive oil! This step really helps them roast evenly and develop that gorgeous flavor.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Once your sprouts are nicely coated, spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Pop them into the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them! They’re ready when they turn that beautiful golden brown color and you can smell their nutty aroma filling your kitchen. It’s heavenly!
Add Cranberries and Pecans
Okay, here’s the fun part! About 5 minutes before your Brussels sprouts are done, pull that baking sheet out and sprinkle on the 1 cup of dried cranberries and the 1 cup of chopped pecans. This little addition at the end lets those cranberries plump up and the pecans get toasty without losing their crunch. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Serve Warm
Once everything is roasted to perfection, take them out of the oven and let them cool for just a moment. Then, transfer your beautiful dish to a serving platter. For a lovely presentation, you can sprinkle a few extra pecans on top or even a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a touch of elegance. Serve these warm and watch everyone gather around the table, ready to dig in. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Absolutely, you can use fresh cranberries! Just keep in mind that they’re much more tart than dried ones, so they’ll add a different flavor profile. I recommend tossing them in a bit of sugar before adding them to the dish to balance out that tartness. Fresh cranberries also won’t get as chewy as dried ones, but they’ll still bring a lovely burst of flavor!
What can I serve alongside this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses! I love serving it alongside roasted chicken or turkey, but it’s also fantastic with a hearty vegetarian dish like stuffed peppers or quinoa salad. You really can’t go wrong! It adds a pop of color and flavor that complements so many meals. Plus, it’s perfect for holiday feasts!
How can I make this dish vegan?
Making this dish vegan is super easy! The ingredients are already mostly plant-based, but if you want to ensure it’s completely vegan, just use a plant-based oil instead of olive oil if you prefer. You might also want to skip the balsamic vinegar drizzle if you find one that isn’t vegan-friendly. It’s all about those little tweaks, and your dish will still be delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful medley that dances on your palate!
- Health Benefits: Packed with nutrients, Brussels sprouts are a fantastic source of vitamins C and K, while cranberries add antioxidants and pecans provide healthy fats. It’s a nutritious side you can feel good about!
- Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of simple steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts alike.
- Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors of green, red, and brown make this dish not only delicious but also a stunning addition to your table.
- Versatile Side: Whether you’re serving it alongside a fancy roast or a cozy vegetarian meal, these Brussels sprouts fit right in and elevate any plate!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the Brussels sprouts ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve, making entertaining a breeze!
Tips for Success
Alright, my friend, let’s make sure your Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans turn out absolutely fabulous! Here are some of my top tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When you spread the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet, make sure they’re in a single layer with a little space between them. This helps them roast evenly and get that lovely crispy texture. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast, and we definitely want that golden goodness!
- Adjust roasting time: Depending on the size of your Brussels sprouts, you might need to tweak the roasting time a bit. If they’re smaller, check them at around 15-20 minutes to see if they’re tender and golden. If they’re on the larger side, they might need the full 25 minutes. Just keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re ready when they smell divine!
- Flavor enhancements: Want to take this dish to the next level? Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting. It adds an extra layer of flavor that’s just incredible!
- Mix it up! Feel free to experiment with other nuts or dried fruits if you’re feeling adventurous. Walnuts or almonds could work beautifully instead of pecans, and apricots or raisins can add a different twist to the sweetness!
- Serve immediately: These Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re warm and crispy. If you need to make them ahead, just reheat briefly in the oven to restore that delicious crunch!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone at the dinner table! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans fresh and tasty! If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a definite possibility because they’re so good!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
First, allow the Brussels sprouts to cool completely. Once they’ve cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. I like to use glass containers for this since they help keep the flavors intact. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal them well to prevent any moisture from getting in!
When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheating is super simple! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This way, they’ll crisp up again nicely! Pop them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and just starting to get that lovely golden color again.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat them in the microwave. Just place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. But just a heads up: they won’t be as crispy this way, so I highly recommend the oven method for the best texture!
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Brussels sprouts even after the big feast. Happy eating!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s dive into the nutritional side of these delightful Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans! While I always say that the best part of food is how it tastes, it’s nice to know what’s in it as well. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use or any modifications you make. But overall, this dish is not just tasty—it’s packed with nutrients that are sure to make your body happy! Enjoy every bite guilt-free!
Share Your Experience
I absolutely love hearing from you, so please share your experience with this Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans recipe! Did you make any tweaks or add your own special touch? I’d be thrilled to know how it turned out for you. Your feedback helps me create even more delicious recipes for everyone!
If you enjoyed this dish, why not snap a photo and share it on social media? Tag me so I can see your beautiful creations! And if you’re feeling generous, leave a rating or a comment below—I can’t wait to read about your culinary adventures with this recipe. Happy cooking, and I hope these Brussels sprouts bring as much joy to your table as they do to mine!
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Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans: 5 Joyful Flavors
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish combining Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and pecans for a flavorful side.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Add cranberries and pecans to the baking sheet in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- Remove from oven and serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust roasting time for desired tenderness.
- Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Brussels Sprouts, Cranberries, Pecans, Side Dish, Vegetarian