Looking for a side dish that packs a punch of flavor? Try my Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels! These little green gems, roasted to perfection with garlic and melted cheese, transform any meal into a feast. I’ll share the easy steps and tips to make your Brussels sprouts crispy and delicious. Join me as we dive into this quick recipe and make dinner something special!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Outcome: The combination of roasted garlic and Parmesan creates a savory and delicious flavor that elevates the Brussels sprouts.
- Healthy Side Dish: Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients, making this dish a healthy addition to any meal.
- Versatile Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian options.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 4 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Seasoning Ingredients
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts are simple yet full of flavor. The main ingredients create a great base. Brussels sprouts bring a slight sweetness. Garlic gives a rich aroma. Olive oil adds a nice crisp. Parmesan cheese melts into creamy goodness.
You will need some seasoning to boost the taste. Sea salt brings out the natural flavors. Black pepper adds a hint of spice. Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
For this recipe, you will need basic kitchen tools. A mixing bowl helps combine the ingredients well. A baking sheet is essential for roasting. Finally, your oven will do the magic of roasting.
Gather these ingredients and tools to make a delightful side dish. Enjoy the journey of cooking these Roasted Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, you need to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This heat helps the Brussels sprouts get crispy. Next, take your pound of Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends and cut them in half. Trimming makes them tender. Halving helps them roast evenly.
Mixing and Coating
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with four cloves of finely minced garlic. Add three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, half a teaspoon of sea salt, and half a teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together. Make sure each sprout gets a good coat of the mixture for great flavor.
Roasting Process
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a large baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer. This allows for even roasting and crispiness. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, stir the sprouts to help them brown evenly. When they are deeply browned and tender, take them out. Sprinkle half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Return the baking sheet to the oven for five more minutes. This melts the cheese and creates a nice golden crust. Finally, drizzle one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice over the sprouts before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Roasting Tips
Roasting Brussels sprouts gets them crispy and tasty. Use a large baking sheet and lay the sprouts in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly. If they are too close, they may steam instead of roast. Stir the sprouts halfway through cooking. This ensures all sides get nice and brown.
Cheese Melting Technique
Parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor. To melt it well, sprinkle it over the sprouts just before finishing. Then, return them to the hot oven. Keep an eye on the cheese. It should melt and turn golden, but not burn. This gives you that perfect crunchy topping.
Flavor Enhancement
You can boost the flavor of your Brussels sprouts with spices or herbs. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or some thyme for earthiness. A touch of garlic powder can also add depth. Experiment and find what you love best!
Pro Tips
- Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select Brussels sprouts that are firm and compact, with vibrant green leaves for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Skimp on Olive Oil: Using enough olive oil helps to crisp the Brussels sprouts while enhancing their flavor. Don’t be afraid to coat them evenly!
- Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is delicious, try mixing in other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a unique twist on flavor.
- Adjust Roasting Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your sprouts and adjust the roasting time as needed for optimal browning.
Variations
Alternative Cheeses
You can change the cheese for a new taste. Parmesan is rich and sharp, but other cheeses work well too. Try using Pecorino Romano for a saltier flavor. Or, go for a creamy goat cheese if you like a tangy twist. Cheddar adds a bold taste, while mozzarella gives a gooey texture. Each cheese can make your Brussels sprouts unique and flavorful.
Veggie Add-ins
You can mix in other vegetables for more color and taste. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers all roast nicely with Brussels sprouts. They add sweetness and crunch. For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or chili powder. Herbs like thyme or rosemary can also boost flavor. Experiment to find your favorite mix!
Serving Suggestions
Brussels sprouts make a great side for many main dishes. They pair well with roasted chicken or grilled steak. You can also serve them with fish for a light meal. For garnishes, add lemon slices or a sprinkle of extra cheese. Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can add a nice crunch too. These simple touches make your dish even more special.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftovers, let the Brussels sprouts cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. This keeps their taste and texture nice.
Reheating Instructions
For the best taste, reheat in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps keep them crispy. You can also use the microwave, but they might become soft.
Freezing Information
Yes, you can freeze Brussels sprouts! First, blanch them in boiling water for 3 minutes. Then, cool them in ice water. Drain and place in a freezer-safe bag. They last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
FAQs
How do I make Brussels sprouts less bitter?
To make Brussels sprouts less bitter, you can try a few tricks. First, you should trim the ends and remove any yellow leaves. This helps reduce the strong taste. Second, roasting them at high heat brings out their natural sweetness. You can also pair them with sweet flavors. Adding honey or balsamic vinegar can help balance the bitterness. Lastly, cook them with strong flavors like garlic or cheese to mask any bitterness.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. They are convenient and save time. However, using fresh sprouts often gives a better taste and texture. If you use frozen ones, thaw and drain them first. Then, pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This helps them crisp up better when you roast them. Keep in mind, frozen sprouts may not brown as nicely as fresh ones.
What can I substitute for Parmesan?
If you need a substitute for Parmesan, there are good options. For a vegan choice, try using nutritional yeast. It adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy. You can also use vegan Parmesan cheese available in stores. If you want a dairy option, try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. These cheeses have a similar taste and texture to Parmesan.
This blog covered how to make delicious roasted Brussels sprouts. We discussed main and seasoning ingredients, needed equipment, and step-by-step instructions. I shared tips on roasting and enhancing flavor. We also explored variations, storage options, and frequently asked questions. Remember, cooking should be fun! Don't be afraid to experiment with flavors. Enjoy your tasty dish and impress your friends! You can make this recipe your own by trying different cheeses or adding veggies. With these easy steps, you can create a dish everyone will love.
