There’s something undeniably enchanting about the combination of flavors that emerges from the oven when you roast Brussels sprouts with cranberries and zesty orange. The sweet-tart cranberries burst with juice, perfectly complementing the earthy, nutty notes of the Brussels sprouts. I discovered this delightful recipe one chilly afternoon while preparing for a holiday gathering; it struck me how effortlessly it elevates any festive table without requiring hours in the kitchen.
With just six simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing side dish that’s not only gluten-free and vegan but also refined sugar-free. Imagine serving a dish that shines with vibrant colors and irresistible aromas, bringing warmth and joy to your guests. Whether you’re seeking a delicious holiday accompaniment or a bright addition to your weeknight dinners, these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries will become a treasure in your culinary repertoire.
Why Are Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries a Must-Try?
Simplicity: With only six ingredients, this dish is super easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy festive days.
Vibrant Flavors: The combination of sweet-tart cranberries and zesty orange elevates the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Health Boost: Gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free, these sprouts are a guilt-free side packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
Versatile Serve: Ideal for holiday gatherings or weeknight meals, they complement a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian spreads.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, the stunning presentation and flavors will surely impress everyone at the table.
Quick Cooking Time: In just 25 minutes, you can have a luscious side ready to enjoy, saving you precious time in the kitchen without sacrificing taste!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – Freshness and crunch; ends trimmed & halved for even cooking.
• Olive Oil – Moisture and rich flavor base; can be substituted with any other neutral oil.
For the Cranberry Mixture
• Fresh Cranberries – Sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color; use fresh for the best taste or swap with rehydrated dried cranberries if needed.
• Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice – Adds acidity and sweetness; strongly recommended to use fresh rather than bottled for maximum flavor.
• Maple Syrup or Honey – Sweetness that balances savory elements; choose maple syrup for a vegan option, or honey for a non-vegan alternative.
• Orange Zest – Enhances the citrus flavor; derived from one orange, it adds aromatic oils elevating the dish.
Seasoning
• Salt + Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste for your perfect roast.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures crispy Brussels sprouts while perfectly roasting the cranberries. Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
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Whisk the Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until well combined. This mixture will infuse your Brussels sprouts and cranberries with delightful flavors.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts and fresh cranberries. Pour the prepared oil mixture over them and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until every piece is evenly coated and ready to roast!
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Spread on Baking Sheet: Transfer your Brussels sprouts and cranberries mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring none overlap. Crowding them can prevent that lovely crispness you’re aiming for.
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Roast to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. You want the Brussels sprouts to become tender and slightly caramelized. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional minute at the end!
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Serve Warm: Once out of the oven, serve the dish immediately! You can drizzle a bit more maple syrup or honey on top for an added touch of sweetness, if you like.
Optional: Garnish with toasted nuts for a delightful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries?
Elevate your meal with delicious companions that perfectly harmonize with these vibrant Roasted Brussels Sprouts, bursting with flavor.
- Savory Stuffing: A flavorful stuffing mixed with herbs and spices can provide a lovely contrast to the sweet-tart notes of the sprouts.
- Cranberry Sauce: Another cranberry option, but this traditional sauce adds a smooth, sweet dimension that complements the dish beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and decadent, these mashed potatoes soak up the juices from the Brussels sprouts and add a comforting touch to your plate.
- Herb-Roasted Chicken: Seasoned chicken with crispy skin offers a savory balance to the sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful duo.
- Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad with fresh vegetables can add a nutritious boost and crunch that pairs well with the roasted flavors.
- Apple Pie: Finish your meal on a sweet note with warm apple pie; the cinnamon-spiced apples provide a delightful contrast to the savory sprouts.
- Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine can beautifully accentuate the citrus notes of your Brussels sprouts while adding a touch of elegance to the meal.
- Fresh Greens: Pair with a mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh and zesty accent that balances the richness of your dishes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your dish uniquely yours!
- Agave Nectar: Swap maple syrup for agave nectar to create a lower glycemic version without compromising sweetness.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in toasted pecans or walnuts after roasting for an irresistible crunch and a lovely nutty flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting for a surprising heat that will excite your taste buds.
- Citrus Medley: Experiment with lemon or lime juice instead of orange for a different zesty brightness that complements the cranberries wonderfully.
- Sweet Potato Surprise: Add cubed sweet potatoes to the mix for extra sweetness and a heartier texture; they roast beautifully alongside Brussels sprouts.
- Smoky Flavor: Introduce smoked paprika to the oil mixture for a subtle smoky undertone that elevates the overall taste profile.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting for an aromatic lift that will envelop the dish in fragrant warmth.
- Cranberry Sauce Drizzle: Top your finished dish with a homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for a unique take that intensifies that beloved sweet-tart flavor combo.
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries
Fridge: Store your leftover Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to freeze them, place cooled sprouts in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps regain their crispiness.
Avoid Overcrowding: When prepping for freezing, make sure to separate the sprouts; freezing them in a single layer prevents clumping.
Expert Tips for Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries
- Crispiness Rule: Ensure Brussels sprouts aren’t overcrowded on the baking sheet; this is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh cranberries for optimal flavor. If you must use dried, add them near the end of roasting to avoid over-drying.
- Double the Recipe: Consider doubling the batch for larger gatherings; this recipe yields around four small side servings, perfect for holiday feasts!
- Perfect Pairing: These Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries pair beautifully with roasted meats, but also make a satisfying stand-alone vegetarian dish.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven for best results.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prep the Brussels sprouts by trimming and halving them up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness. The cranberry mixture can also be prepared in advance—just whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, orange juice, and zest, and refrigerate until ready to use. When it’s time to cook, toss everything together and roast them in the oven. Following this method will ensure that your dish remains just as delicious and vibrant, ready to impress your family and guests with minimal effort!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right Brussels sprouts?
When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, bright green heads without any dark spots or yellowing leaves, as these indicate overripeness. The sprouts should feel heavy for their size and have tightly packed leaves. For the freshest flavor, buy them in the fall or winter when they are in peak season.
How should I store leftover Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to retain their flavor and texture. When reheating, I recommend using the oven to preserve their crispiness—just warm them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries?
Yes! To freeze, allow the sprouts to cool completely first. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat straight from the freezer in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warm through.
What can I do if my Brussels sprouts are too bitter?
If your Brussels sprouts turn out a bit bitter, try soaking them in salted water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps draw out some of the bitterness. Additionally, roasting them with a touch of sweetness, like the cranberries and maple syrup in this recipe, can balance out those stronger flavors for a more enjoyable dish.
Are there any dietary considerations for Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for many dietary restrictions. However, if you have any allergies—for example, to nuts—be cautious with optional garnishes like nuts. Always check the labels of your ingredients, especially for pre-packaged items like maple syrup or honey, to ensure they’re aligned with your dietary needs.
What’s the best way to tell when my Brussels sprouts are done roasting?
Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted when they are tender and caramelized—this usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). You want to see a nice browning on the outside, and you can give them a little shake or toss halfway through roasting for even cooking. For an extra crispy finish, consider broiling them for 1-2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Savory Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until well combined.
- In a large bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts and fresh cranberries. Pour the prepared oil mixture over them and season with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring none overlap.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Serve immediately, drizzling with more maple syrup or honey if desired.