Hello, salad lovers! If you’re looking for a fresh and satisfying dish with a touch of sweetness and crunch, this Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad is the perfect choice. Packed with caramelized Brussels sprouts, tangy balsamic glaze, dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans, this salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, this recipe will elevate your table. Let’s get started!
Introduction
Brussels sprouts have a bad reputation for being a bitter vegetable, but roasting them transforms their flavor, making them tender and sweet with a deliciously crisp edge. This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad brings together the natural richness of Brussels sprouts with a homemade balsamic glaze, adding just the right amount of sweetness and tang. With cranberries, pecans, and optional feta cheese, this salad is as beautiful as it is tasty. It’s ideal for holiday gatherings or as a nutritious side any time of year.
Ingredients
To make this 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)
This combination of ingredients creates a balanced and flavorful salad that’s both hearty and refreshing.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad
Follow these simple steps to create your own Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they’re 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, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Balsamic Glaze: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup) in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce the Glaze: Cook the balsamic mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened and reduced by half. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Assemble the Salad: Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts, then sprinkle with dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
- Serve: Serve the salad warm or at room temperature as a delicious and healthy side dish or appetizer.
Helpful Tips
- Even Roasting: Make sure to spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet to achieve even roasting and caramelization.
- Choosing Sweetener: Honey adds a rich sweetness, while maple syrup offers a subtle, earthy flavor. Choose whichever suits your taste!
- Optional Toppings: Try adding other toppings like roasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of pomegranate arils for extra color and flavor.
Cooking Tips
Here are some additional tips to make the most of your Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad:
- Add Protein: For a more filling salad, add grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein.
- Extra Crunch: Lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad for extra crunch and depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the balsamic glaze a few hours in advance. Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad pairs well with roasted meats, hearty soups, or as part of a larger holiday spread. It’s also fantastic served alongside a grain like quinoa or farro for a complete vegetarian meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra feta for a beautiful presentation.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits of this Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad:
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 160mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Vitamin C: 80%
- Calcium: 5%
- Iron: 6%
Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, this salad is both nutritious and delicious.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes, or enjoy it cold as a refreshing side salad.
Leftovers are also great for adding to grain bowls or as a topping for avocado toast!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
What other nuts can I use?
Walnuts or slivered almonds make a great substitution for pecans.
Is there an alternative to balsamic vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar can be used, but it will create a slightly different flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more honey or maple syrup.
Related Recipes
Here are some other delicious salad recipes you might enjoy:
- Warm Butternut Squash Salad
- Maple Glazed Carrots with Pecans
- Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad
- Apple Walnut Kale Salad
Conclusion
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With caramelized Brussels sprouts, a tangy balsamic glaze, and crunchy toppings, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and let us know how you like it!