Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this delightful dish of Brussels sprouts with cranberries & pecans! It’s one of those recipes that just makes my heart sing. The way the earthy Brussels sprouts mingle with the sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy pecans is nothing short of magical. I love making this for holiday dinners, where it shines alongside the turkey, but honestly, it’s perfect for any weeknight too! It’s so easy to whip up, and the colors are stunning on the plate. Trust me, once you try this combination, you’ll be hooked! It’s a simple yet elegant dish that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish! I always recommend using fresh ingredients for the best flavor, so let’s dive into the details:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Make sure to check that your Brussels sprouts are firm and bright green—those are the best ones! And feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your taste. Enjoy gathering these ingredients; it sets the stage for a delicious meal!
How to Prepare Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans
Now let’s get those Brussels sprouts all ready to shine! This process is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time. Here’s how to do it:
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because a hot oven is what gives those sprouts that perfect crispy finish!
Toss the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each sprout is coated evenly—this is where the magic happens! I love to get in there with my hands; it feels more personal, and you can really tell when everything’s mixed well.
Prepare the Baking Sheet
Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This is key for even cooking, so don’t crowd them! You want them to roast beautifully without steaming.
Add Cranberries and Pecans
Now, it’s time to sprinkle those fresh cranberries and chopped pecans right on top of the Brussels sprouts. They’ll add such a lovely burst of flavor and crunch!
Bake the Dish
Bake everything in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Don’t forget to stir halfway through! This ensures every sprout gets that golden-brown love. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and crispy—just the way we like them!
Serve Warm
Once they’re out of the oven, serve your Brussels sprouts warm. They make a fantastic side dish or even a main course if you’re feeling adventurous! I love pairing them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra zing. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts without any yellow or wilted leaves. They should feel heavy for their size—this means they’re fresh and ready to shine!
- Don’t Skip the Toss: Make sure to really toss the Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. This ensures every sprout gets that delicious seasoning and helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper to your liking. You can even add a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor!
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your sprouts as they bake. If you like them extra crispy, you can leave them in a few minutes longer, but don’t let them burn!
- Serve Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve your Brussels sprouts warm right out of the oven. They’re at their peak deliciousness then!
Nutritional Information for Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans
Let’s talk nutrition! Each serving of these delightful Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans packs a flavorful punch while keeping things light. Here’s the estimated breakdown:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but rest assured that this dish is a tasty way to enjoy your veggies while keeping it healthy!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gathered some common questions about my Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans recipe, and I’m here to help! Let’s dive in so you can whip up this dish with confidence.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and toss them with the olive oil and seasonings a few hours ahead. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Fresh cranberries and pecans can be added just before roasting for the best texture!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. They taste great, but I recommend enjoying them fresh for the best flavor!
Can I substitute frozen cranberries?
You can, but keep in mind that frozen cranberries might release more moisture as they bake. This could slightly change the texture, but they’ll still taste delicious! Just toss them in frozen, no need to thaw.
What can I serve with this dish?
This recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, or you can serve it as a vibrant vegetarian main alongside grains like quinoa or rice. It also makes a fantastic addition to any holiday spread!
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some sliced carrots or sweet potatoes for extra color and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you add larger pieces, so everything cooks evenly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is not just a pretty face; it’s packed with amazing benefits that make it a must-try! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore my Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of earthy Brussels sprouts, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful medley of flavors that dance on your palate.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this dish up in no time—even on a busy weeknight!
- Healthy Goodness: Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins, this recipe is not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to your table.
- Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a holiday feast or as a main course for a cozy dinner, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion.
- Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors of the sprouts, cranberries, and pecans make for a gorgeous dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance, and you’ll be one step ahead when it’s time to eat. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll see why this recipe has a special place in my heart (and stomach!).
Final Thoughts
Thanks for joining me on this delicious journey to make Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans! I truly hope you give this recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that brings warmth and joy to the table. If you loved it (and I bet you will!), please leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out for you. I absolutely love hearing your stories and any twists you put on the recipe!
Also, if you enjoyed this recipe, I’d be thrilled if you could rate it! Sharing is caring, so don’t forget to spread the love by sharing it on your favorite social media platforms. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the scent of something wonderful!
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Learn more about the health benefits of Brussels sprouts and why they are a great addition to your diet!
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Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans: 5 Irresistible Tips
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful dish combining Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and pecans.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet.
- Add cranberries and pecans on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until sprouts are tender and crispy.
- Stir halfway through baking.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Can be served as a side dish or a main vegetarian dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Brussels Sprouts, Cranberries, Pecans, Side Dish