Are you ready to transform your Brussels sprouts? In this Honey Garlic Brussels Sprout Skillet recipe, vinegar and honey combine for a flavor boost you won’t forget. I’ll guide you through simple steps to achieve crispy, sweet, and savory perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this dish will impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make your next meal a hit!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet honey paired with the savory garlic creates a delightful taste that enhances the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect side dish for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Healthy Ingredients: Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients, and this dish uses wholesome ingredients like olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite spices or additional vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role. The Brussels sprouts are the star here, bringing a hearty texture. When you cut them in half, they cook evenly and soak up flavors well. Honey adds a sweet touch that balances the sprouts’ natural bitterness.
Garlic gives a strong, savory taste. I like to use fresh garlic for that punch. Olive oil helps the sprouts brown nicely and adds healthy fats. Balsamic vinegar brings acidity, which brightens the dish.
Salt and pepper are essential. They season the sprouts and enhance all the flavors. If you want heat, the red pepper flakes are optional but recommended. They give a nice kick without overpowering.
Finally, fresh parsley adds color and freshness. It makes the dish look beautiful. All these ingredients together create a symphony of flavor. You get sweet, savory, tangy, and a bit of heat in every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will help cook the sprouts evenly.
2. Add one pound of halved Brussels sprouts, cut-side down. Season them with salt and pepper for flavor.
3. Cook the Brussels sprouts for about five to seven minutes. Look for a golden brown color on the cut side. This step brings out natural sweetness.
4. Stir the Brussels sprouts gently. This ensures even cooking. Reduce the heat to low after stirring.
5. In a small bowl, mix together three tablespoons of honey, four minced garlic cloves, one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and optional red pepper flakes. This creates a tasty sauce.
Cooking Method
1. Pour the honey garlic mixture over the Brussels sprouts in the skillet. Toss to coat the sprouts well. This helps flavor every bite.
2. Cook for an additional five minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce from burning. You want the sprouts to be tender and the sauce to thicken.
Serving Suggestions
1. Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley. This adds color and freshness.
2. Pair your honey garlic Brussels sprouts with roasted chicken or grilled fish. They also go well with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dish
To make the best honey garlic Brussels sprouts, start by ensuring even cooking. Place the sprouts cut-side down in the skillet. This helps them brown nicely. After a few minutes, stir them gently. This allows all sides to cook well.
You may want to adjust the sweetness and spice levels. If you like it sweeter, add more honey. For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce before adding it to the sprouts. This lets you find your perfect balance.
Kitchen Tools Needed
When cooking, choose the right skillet. A large, non-stick skillet works best. It helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy. A cast-iron skillet can also give great results.
You’ll need some essential utensils too. Keep a sharp knife handy for halving the Brussels sprouts. A whisk is great for mixing the sauce. Have a spatula ready for tossing those sprouts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the Brussels sprouts. They should be tender but still crisp. Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid mushy sprouts.
Also, be careful with sauce ratios. Too much honey can make it overly sweet. If the sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the sprouts well. Always taste and adjust as needed for the best flavor.
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Browned Sprouts: Make sure to place the Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the skillet to achieve a beautifully caramelized surface, enhancing their flavor.
- Honey Alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey for a different flavor profile.
- Custom Spice Mix: Feel free to customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes or adding your favorite spices for a unique twist.
- Serving Suggestions: These honey garlic Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish for roasted meats or can be served over a bed of quinoa for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can switch honey for maple syrup or agave. These keep the sweetness but change the flavor. Adding other veggies can add fun. Try carrots, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes. You can also toss in proteins like chicken or tofu. This adds heartiness to your dish.
Dietary Modifications
For a vegan option, swap honey with maple syrup or brown rice syrup. Both offer a nice sweetness. If you want gluten-free, this recipe is already safe. Just check your balsamic vinegar to ensure it contains no gluten.
Flavor Enhancements
Herbs and spices can boost your dish. Try adding thyme or rosemary for an earthy taste. A little ginger can add a nice zing, too. To make it crunchy, toss in some nuts like almonds or walnuts. Seeds like pumpkin or sunflower can also add great texture.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your honey garlic Brussels sprouts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and flavor. Place the sprouts in the fridge within two hours of cooking. They stay fresh for up to three days.
If you want to freeze them, let them cool first. Then, spread the sprouts on a baking sheet to freeze them flat. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they won’t stick together. You can freeze them for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to eat your leftovers, reheat them in a skillet. Heat it over medium-low heat. Add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook for about five minutes, stirring gently. This method keeps the flavors intact.
To restore the crispiness, try broiling them in the oven. Place the sprouts on a baking sheet and broil for two to three minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. This gives them a nice crunch.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your honey garlic Brussels sprouts last for three days. After that, check for signs of spoilage. Look for a sour smell or a slimy texture. If you see any mold, toss them out.
Storing them correctly can help you enjoy this tasty dish longer. With these tips, you prevent waste and savor every bite.
FAQs
Common Questions
How to make Brussels sprouts crispy?
To make Brussels sprouts crispy, start by cutting them in half. Heat olive oil in your skillet before adding the sprouts cut-side down. Cook them without stirring for a few minutes to get a nice golden color. This helps create a crispy texture. Finally, don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to brown.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, they may not get as crispy as fresh ones. Thaw them first and pat them dry. This helps to remove excess water, which can prevent crispiness when cooking.
What can I serve with honey garlic Brussels sprouts?
Honey garlic Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes. Try serving them with grilled chicken, salmon, or steak. They also work as a side for rice or quinoa dishes. Add a light salad for freshness, and you have a complete meal.
Recipe Modifications
Can I omit the balsamic vinegar?
You can omit balsamic vinegar, but it adds flavor depth. If you skip it, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit more honey for balance. This will keep the taste bright and flavorful.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. You can cook a large batch and store it in the fridge. Just keep it in an airtight container. Reheat in the skillet to bring back some crispiness before serving.
Nutritional Information
How many calories are in honey garlic Brussels sprouts?
Honey garlic Brussels sprouts contain about 150 calories per serving. This can vary based on the amount of olive oil and honey you use. Always check the exact ingredients for precise counts.
Are Brussels sprouts healthy?
Yes, Brussels sprouts are very healthy. They are rich in vitamins C and K. They also have fiber, which is good for digestion. Eating them can help support your immune system and overall health.
In this blog post, I shared a tasty honey garlic Brussels sprouts recipe. You learned about the ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking methods. We covered tips for perfecting the dish and explored variations. Storing and reheating leftovers were also discussed for convenience.
Keep experimenting with different flavors and tweaks. Don’t hesitate to adjust recipes to suit your taste. With practice, you’ll master these sprouts and impress your friends and family. Enjoy your cooking journe
Honey Garlic Brussels Sprout Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sprouts are golden brown on the cut side.
- Stir the Brussels sprouts to allow even cooking and reduce heat to low.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the honey garlic mixture over the Brussels sprouts in the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sprouts are tender and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
