Hello, salad lovers! If you’re looking for a dish that combines the heartiness of roasted vegetables with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans, this Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad is for you. Whether served as a side dish or a light salad, this recipe is a showstopper, bursting with flavor and texture. Let’s explore how to create this delicious masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion.
Introduction
Brussels sprouts have come a long way from being the misunderstood vegetable on the holiday table. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, creating a caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender. This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad adds layers of flavor with a tangy balsamic glaze, sweet dried cranberries, nutty pecans, and optional creamy feta cheese. It’s versatile enough for a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant holiday feast. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also brimming with nutritional benefits, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad, you’ll need:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese (optional)
These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s balanced, flavorful, and satisfying.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare your Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad:
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. The sprouts should be tender with a caramelized exterior.
- Make the Balsamic Glaze: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey or maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened and reduced by half.
- Assemble the Salad: Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top.
- Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the roasted Brussels sprouts with dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
- Serve: Serve the salad warm or at room temperature as a side dish or light main course. Enjoy the combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Helpful Tips
- Perfectly Roasted Sprouts: Ensure your Brussels sprouts are dry before tossing them with olive oil to achieve a crisp, caramelized exterior. Overcrowding the baking sheet can result in steaming instead of roasting, so use a large sheet or roast in batches.
- Customizing the Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness of the balsamic glaze to your preference by using more or less honey or maple syrup.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the salad enhances their nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch.
Cooking Tips
Here are some additional tips to elevate your Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad:
- Alternate Toppings: Add pomegranate seeds for a burst of freshness or swap pecans for walnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the balsamic glaze ahead of time. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the toppings.
- Add Protein: Turn this salad into a complete meal by adding grilled chicken, seared salmon, or crispy tofu.
Serving Suggestions
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or pork, grilled fish, or hearty grain dishes like quinoa or wild rice. It also shines as a standalone dish for a light lunch or dinner. For a festive presentation, arrange the Brussels sprouts in a circular pattern on a platter and sprinkle the cranberries and pecans on top.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a brief look at the nutritional highlights of this dish:
- Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, making them a nutrient-dense base for the salad.
- Dried cranberries provide natural sweetness and a boost of antioxidants.
- Pecans are a rich source of healthy fats and essential nutrients like magnesium and zinc.
- Optional feta cheese adds a creamy texture and a dose of calcium.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 190mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 9g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Vitamin C: 60%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 8%
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that support overall health.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm the roasted Brussels sprouts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through. Add fresh toppings after reheating to maintain their texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.
Can I omit the balsamic glaze?
Certainly! If you prefer a simpler flavor, the roasted Brussels sprouts can be served with just a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice.
What’s a good substitute for pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds are excellent substitutes that maintain the crunch and nutty flavor.
Can this dish be served cold?
Yes, this salad can be served cold for a refreshing alternative, especially in warmer weather. The flavors will meld even more when chilled.
Related Recipes
If you enjoy this salad, here are some related recipes you might love:
- Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme
- Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Winter Kale Salad with Cranberries and Almonds
- Roasted Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad
Conclusion
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad is a celebration of flavors and textures, combining caramelized Brussels sprouts with a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze and a medley of toppings. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!