Sweet and Tangy Balsamic Glaze for Brussels Sprouts
Highlighted under: Balanced Eating Ideas
This Sweet and Tangy Balsamic Glaze perfectly complements roasted Brussels sprouts, adding a rich flavor that elevates this simple vegetable dish.
This Sweet and Tangy Balsamic Glaze enhances the natural flavors of Brussels sprouts, making them an irresistible side dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and tangy flavor that balances perfectly
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find
- Transforms Brussels sprouts into a crowd-pleaser
Perfect Pairing for Any Occasion
The Sweet and Tangy Balsamic Glaze is not just for Brussels sprouts; it’s a versatile sauce that enhances a variety of dishes. Use it to elevate roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even as a drizzle over fresh salads. Its rich flavor profile makes it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire, ensuring that every meal can be transformed into something special.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this glaze adds a touch of sophistication without requiring extensive effort. Its balance of sweetness and acidity appeals to many palates, making it a crowd-pleaser. You can easily double the recipe to keep some on hand for quick flavor boosts throughout the week.
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, which are vital for maintaining overall health. Vitamin C supports the immune system, while vitamin K is crucial for bone health and proper blood clotting. Adding this superfood to your diet can contribute to long-term health benefits.
Additionally, Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, aiding digestion and helping you feel full longer. The combination of fiber and the glaze's natural sweetness makes this dish not only satisfying but also a smart choice for maintaining a balanced diet. Incorporating more vegetables like Brussels sprouts into your meals can help promote a healthier lifestyle.
Tips for Perfect Roasting
To achieve perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts, it's essential to ensure they are cut evenly. Halving them allows for more surface area to caramelize, resulting in a delightful texture and flavor. Before roasting, make sure to dry them thoroughly after washing; excess moisture can prevent them from browning properly.
Another tip is to space the Brussels sprouts out on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which affects the flavor and texture. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding garlic or bacon to the baking sheet for the last 10 minutes of roasting for a delicious twist on this classic dish.
Ingredients
For the Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
These ingredients will create a delicious glaze to elevate your Brussels sprouts!
Instructions
Prepare the Balsamic Glaze
In a saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Reduce the Glaze
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
While the glaze is reducing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare the Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends, cut them in half, and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
Combine and Serve
Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20 minutes or until they are golden and tender. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted sprouts and serve warm.
This dish makes a wonderful addition to any meal!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover balsamic glaze or roasted Brussels sprouts, don’t worry! Both can be stored for future use. The glaze can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It may thicken further when chilled, but a gentle reheat will restore its pourable consistency.
Leftover roasted Brussels sprouts can also be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or a skillet to retain their crispy texture. A quick drizzle of the balsamic glaze before serving can refresh their flavor and make them taste almost as good as when they were freshly made.
Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to experiment with the balsamic glaze by adding different herbs and spices. A pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of fresh thyme can elevate the flavor even more. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the honey.
Additionally, try incorporating different sweeteners in place of honey, like maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan alternative. The flavor profile may shift slightly, but you’ll still achieve that sweet and tangy essence that makes this glaze so appealing.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet and Tangy Balsamic Glaze pairs beautifully with various proteins. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a harmonious meal. The glaze’s complexity complements the savory notes of meats while enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables.
For a vegetarian option, serve it over quinoa or brown rice bowls topped with fresh greens and your favorite roasted vegetables. This not only makes for a healthy meal but also presents a colorful and vibrant plate that is sure to impress guests at any gathering.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the balsamic glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ What other vegetables can I use this glaze with?
This glaze works well with other vegetables like carrots, asparagus, and cauliflower.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses honey; however, you can substitute with agave syrup for a fully vegan version.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Sweet and Tangy Balsamic Glaze for Brussels Sprouts
This Sweet and Tangy Balsamic Glaze perfectly complements roasted Brussels sprouts, adding a rich flavor that elevates this simple vegetable dish.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Balanced Eating Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How-To Steps
In a saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
While the glaze is reducing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare the Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends, cut them in half, and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20 minutes or until they are golden and tender. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted sprouts and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 1g