Description
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Carrots
This delicious side dish combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts and the natural sweetness of carrots, all brought together with a touch of real maple syrup. Roasted in the oven until perfectly crispy, this dish is simple yet flavorful, making it a great addition to any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive holiday dinner, these veggies will shine on your table!
1½ lb Brussels sprouts, halved
2-3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
2-3 tbsp maple syrup
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Toss Brussels sprouts and carrots in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place them cut-side down on a sheet pan. Roast for 18 minutes.
4. Drizzle maple syrup, toss to combine, and roast for 5 more minutes.
Prep Time: 33 mins
Kcal: 177 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfectly roasted vegetables every time.
- Prep the Vegetables: Wash 1½ lbs of Brussels sprouts, trim the stems, and cut them in half. Peel 2-3 large carrots and slice them into ½-inch thick rounds or sticks for even cooking.
- Season Generously: On a large baking sheet, toss the prepared vegetables with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper. Ensure every piece is lightly coated.
- Arrange for Crispiness: This is the key step. Arrange all the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the pan. This maximizes contact with the hot surface, leading to a delicious, caramelized sear.
- Initial Roast: Place the pan in the preheated 450°F oven and roast, undisturbed, for 18 minutes. This allows the high heat to work its magic.
- Add Sweetness: Remove the pan and carefully drizzle 2-3 tbsp of real maple syrup over the vegetables. Toss everything thoroughly to combine and coat.
- Final Roast: Return the pan to the oven for a final 5 minutes. The maple syrup will glaze the vegetables and caramelize slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with numerous mains. For a classic dinner, serve alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or pan-seared salmon. During the holidays, it’s the perfect accompaniment to turkey or honey-glazed ham. For a vegetarian feast, add it to a plate with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and a creamy lentil loaf.
How-to Summary
Cut sprouts and carrots, toss with oil and seasonings, and arrange sprouts cut-side down on a pan. Roast at 450°F for 18 minutes, drizzle with maple syrup, toss, and roast for 5 more minutes until crispy and caramelized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of maple syrup? Absolutely. Swap the maple syrup for 1-2 tbsp of balsamic glaze or vinegar for a tangy, savory finish.
How do I prevent soggy Brussels sprouts? Ensure your oven is fully preheated, don’t overcrowd the pan, and always place the sprouts cut-side down. Patting the washed sprouts dry also helps.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can chop the vegetables a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. For best texture, roast just before serving.
What if my carrots aren’t cooking at the same rate as the sprouts? Cut the carrots into smaller, uniform pieces. You can also start the carrots on the pan 5 minutes before adding the Brussels sprouts.
Is honey a good substitute for maple syrup? Yes, honey works well. Use an equal amount, but note it will caramelize faster, so watch closely during the final roast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This steams the vegetables instead of roasting them. Use two pans if necessary.
- Not Placing Cut-Side Down: Skipping this step means missing out on maximum caramelization and crispiness.
- Using Old, Wilted Sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts for the best flavor and texture.
- Adding Syrup Too Early: Adding the maple syrup at the beginning will cause it to burn in the high heat.
Conclusion
This recipe for Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Carrots transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary side dish. The method of high-heat roasting and strategic glazing guarantees a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and crispy textures. It’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire, perfect for elevating both everyday dinners and special occasion feasts.