Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans is a delightful dish that brings a touch of sweetness and crunch to your table. This recipe is perfect for fall and winter, making it a cozy choice for holiday gatherings or a simple weeknight side.

Ingredients for Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

Brussels sprouts are the star of the show, providing a hearty base with a slightly bitter edge that softens when roasted. Olive oil helps them crisp up nicely while adding a touch of richness. The maple syrup brings a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sprouts' natural flavor. Pecan halves add a satisfying crunch and a nutty depth. A sprinkle of salt and black pepper enhances all the flavors. Finally, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy finish that complements the caramelized edges.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispy sprouts, make sure they're not too crowded on the baking sheet.
  • If your pecans are on the smaller side, add them in the last 5 minutes to avoid over-roasting.
  • Adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste — a bit more for extra sweetness or a touch less if you prefer a subtler hint.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or glazed ham. For a vegetarian spread, serve it alongside a creamy butternut squash soup or a hearty mushroom risotto. You can also toss it into a grain bowl with quinoa and goat cheese for a delightful lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best for this recipe because frozen sprouts tend to be softer and might not crisp up as desired.
What if I don't have maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used as substitutes, though each will slightly alter the flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain some crispness.

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup ensures an even roast and makes cleanup a breeze. While the oven is warming up, grab a large bowl and toss in the halved Brussels sprouts. Add the olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper, then give everything a good mix until the sprouts are well-coated.

Next, spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This single layer is key for even roasting and those desirable crispy edges. Pop the tray into your preheated oven and let them roast for 20 minutes. Halfway through, give the sprouts a stir to promote even cooking.

Once the 20 minutes are up, it's time to introduce the pecans. Sprinkle them over the Brussels sprouts, stir everything together once more, and slide the tray back into the oven. Roast for another 10 minutes until the sprouts are tender and caramelized, and the pecans are toasty.

After removing the tray from the oven, drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the top. Toss everything gently to ensure the flavors meld perfectly. You’re all set to serve!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare — ready in just 30 minutes.
  • The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors.
  • Uses simple, wholesome ingredients.
  • Great for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, halved
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 cup pecan halves
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
5. Add the pecan halves to the baking sheet, stir once more, and continue roasting for an additional 10 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving. Toss gently to combine all flavors well.

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